Dermal fillers are injectable gel treatments that replace volume the skin has lost and soften the look of folds and lines. Most are made of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in skin, and are placed with a fine needle during an in-office visit.
Every treatment begins with a consultation to review your goals, look at the areas you would like to address, and confirm whether fillers are a good fit for you.
What dermal fillers can address
- Lips — restore or add volume and define the border
- Cheeks and midface — replace volume lost with age
- Nasolabial folds (smile lines) — soften the creases that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Marionette lines (corners of mouth) — soften the folds that run toward the chin
- Under-eye hollows — improve the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek
- Chin and jawline — improve balance and definition
- Hands — restore volume on the back of the hands
Treatment usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on how many areas are treated. A topical numbing cream or local anesthetic is used beforehand, and many fillers contain lidocaine for comfort.
Common, temporary effects at the injection sites include redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and itching. Results are not permanent — hyaluronic acid fillers are gradually reabsorbed, and maintenance treatments may be needed.
Fillers are medical treatments with real risks. Rare but serious complications include injection into a blood vessel, which can cause tissue damage and, very rarely, vision loss. Your provider goes over these risks with you before treatment.
Frequently asked questions
How long do results last?
It depends on the filler used and the area treated. Hyaluronic acid fillers are gradually broken down by the body, so most people choose maintenance treatments to keep the effect.
Is there downtime?
Most people return to normal activities the same day. Swelling, tenderness, and bruising usually settle within a few days.
Who is not a good candidate?
Fillers are generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you have an active skin infection in the treatment area or a known allergy to a filler component. Your provider confirms suitability at your consultation.
How should I prepare before treatment?
Unless your prescriber tells you otherwise, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and alcohol for 24 hours beforehand, since these can increase bruising. Tell your provider about any bleeding disorder, previous filler, or history of cold sores.
Can filler be removed?
Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if the result needs adjusting or a complication occurs.