Biostimulants are injectable preparations that don't primarily fill in excess skin, but rather stimulate the body's own collagen production. The result isn't a new shape, but firmer, denser skin—built up over months, not overnight. For people who want to ensure that no one notices they've had treatment, this is often the most suitable option.
In our practice, this is primarily due to Radiesse I use a biostimulator based on calcium hydroxylapatite for volume enhancement with simultaneous collagen stimulation, for example on the back of the hands or in the mid-face. In addition, I use HarmonyCa — a hybrid preparation that combines calcium hydroxylapatite with cross-linked hyaluronic acid, thus delivering visible results on the day of treatment, while the collagen-stimulating component continues to work for weeks. Closely related, but strictly speaking not a biostimulator but a hyaluronic acid-based bio-remodeling preparation, is Profhilo — It primarily improves skin quality (moisture, elasticity). Details regarding effects, procedure, and price can be found on the respective treatment pages.
What distinguishes biostimulators from fillers?
A Hyaluronic acid filler It works immediately: It replaces volume where it's lacking. A biostimulator works indirectly: It provides a stimulus to which the skin responds by producing its own collagen. The effect is slower, but looks particularly natural and usually lasts longer. Often, the honest answer is a combination—or the recommendation to use the skin quality to begin.
Suitable areas
- Cheeks and mid-face, when elasticity decreases without a loss of localized volume.
- Lower half of the face and jawline
- Neck and décolletage — areas where classic fillers quickly look unnatural.
Procedure and timeline
After analysis and consultation, the preparation is introduced into deeper layers of the skin. The area may be slightly swollen immediately afterward; this initial effect will subside. The actual collagen production begins after a few weeks and develops over two to four months. Depending on the individual case, one to three sessions are recommended. The result typically lasts well over a year—making exact promises would be irresponsible, as the collagen response varies from person to person.
Risks and side effects
- Swelling, redness, and bruising may occur in the first few days.
- Palpable irregularities or nodules, rarely also delayed
- Rarely infections or hypersensitivity reactions
It's important to know that biostimulants—unlike hyaluronic acid—are not soluble. This is precisely why they should only be used under medical supervision, in conservative doses, and only after careful analysis. Treatment is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in cases of infection in the treatment area, and in certain autoimmune diseases without prior diagnosis.
Cost
The price depends on the product, the area being treated, and the number of sessions. As a guideline: Profhilo €380 per session, Radiesse €460 per area. You will receive a detailed cost estimate during your initial consultation, before any treatment begins. An overview of all treatment prices can be found at [link to price list]. Prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a biostimulator?
An injectable preparation that stimulates the body's own collagen production instead of replacing volume. The skin gradually builds up firmness and density over several months.
What is the difference between a biostimulator and a filler?
The filler works immediately and gives shape; the biostimulator has a delayed effect and improves tissue. The analysis during the initial consultation will determine which treatment is most suitable for you—or whether a combination of both is recommended.
When will I see results?
The process begins after a few weeks and develops over two to four months. Patience is required for this treatment—but the result doesn't look like it was treated at all.
How long will the result last?
Typically well over a year, but this varies from person to person. Refresher courses are possible, but not mandatory.
For whom are biostimulators not suitable?
Hyaluronic acid is not suitable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in cases of infections in the treatment area, and in certain autoimmune diseases. It is also contraindicated whenever localized volume loss is the primary concern.
We will determine whether a biostimulator is suitable for your face during the initial consultation.
Medically responsible: Dr. Jan Gumilar, General Practitioner — Private Practice for Aesthetic Medicine, Brandstätte 3, 1010 Vienna. Member of the German Society for Aesthetic Botulinum and Filler Therapy (DGBT).