Composition

Calcium hydroxylapatite consists of calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres suspended in a gel.

Injection

Calcium hydroxyapatite may be mixed with 2% lidocaine (0.2 cc) prior to injection using a 27-gauge needle. Use of a cannula may decrease the risk of vascular injury.

Uses

Calcium hydroxyapatite is a thick paste used to improve moderate to severe folds and wrinkles. Calcium hydroxyapatite should not be used around the eyes or in the lips because lumps may be palpable under thin skin and because calcium hydroxyapatite is permanent filler.

Precautions

Calcium hydroxyapatite should be placed below the skin or above the bone. When in­jecting calcium hydroxyapatite filler, care must be taken not to cause vascular injury by occlusion or compression. Calcium hydroxyapatite can be seen on X-rays and CT scans.