What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers (facial fillers) are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore volume loss, fill wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers and biostimulant fillers are the most common types. Application areas include lip filler, cheek filler, under-eye filler, nose filler, chin tip and jawline filler. Filler prices vary by volume (ml) and treatment area.
Filler Types
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
Hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body, is used in filler form as a cross-linked gel. It provides a natural appearance and can be dissolved with the enzyme hyaluronidase if needed. Available in different densities (soft, medium, firm); softer products are preferred for lips, while denser formulations are used for the chin and nose. Effects last between 6–18 months.
Biostimulant Fillers
Fillers containing PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) or CaHA (calcium hydroxylapatite) stimulate the skin's own collagen production. The effect develops gradually over 2–6 months and can last up to 18–24 months. Also known as liquid facelift.
Filler Application Areas
- Lip filler: Volume and shape enhancement; 0.5–1 ml is usually sufficient.
- Cheek and full face filler: Volume restoration and facial harmony.
- Under-eye filler: Reduces hollowing and dark circles.
- Nose filler (non-surgical rhinoplasty): Nasal bridge and tip correction.
- Chin and jawline filler: V-line definition and contouring.
- Temple and midface filler: Compensates for volume loss.
Before and After Fillers
Blood thinners (with physician approval) should be discontinued 1 week before the procedure; alcohol should be avoided 24 hours prior. After the procedure, avoid excessive heat and makeup for 48 hours; swelling and bruising diminish within 3–7 days. For a detailed guide, see our post-filler care article.
Conclusion
Dermal fillers offer non-surgical facial rejuvenation and contouring. With the right product selection and an experienced physician, natural and impressive results can be achieved.
Softer HA gels are preferred for lips, while denser formulations are used for the nose and chin; your physician will select the appropriate product for each area. The enzyme hyaluronidase allows fillers to be dissolved when necessary, which is an important safety advantage. Discontinuing blood thinners (with physician approval) 1 week before the procedure reduces the risk of bruising.
References
- Rohrich RJ, Ghavami A, Crosby MA. "The role of hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane) in facial cosmetic surgery." Plast Reconstr Surg. 2007;120(6 Suppl):41S-54S. [PubMed]
- U.S. FDA — Dermal Fillers (Wrinkle Fillers). [FDA.gov]
- American Academy of Dermatology — Fillers. [AAD]
- DermNet NZ — Dermal fillers. [DermNet]
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified physician before making any treatment decisions.