Dermal Fillers for Anti-Aging: Benefits And What To Expect
- Anaya Ahmed
- Jul 2
- 8 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
"You're not ugly- you're just poor"

As celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Kris Jenner shock the world with their "new faces,"- every day people have started to become hyper aware of signs of aging- and the many ways to help improve them.
Dermal filler procedures have jumped 274 percent since 2000, with 3.4 million treatments carried out in 2022, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The regenerative effect of these anti-aging injectable fillers is used to replace the missing volume and treat typical signs of aging, including wrinkles, sunken cheeks, and thin lips. These appear naturally as we age.
The effects of aging on facial structure follow several predictable patterns, with fat pads losing 2% to 3% per year after age 30, collagen degrading at a rate of approximately 1% per year after the age of 25, and a decrease in bone density around the eyes and cheeks. Dermal fillers overcome these effects by supplementing volume where natural tissues have become deficient.
What are dermal fillers?

Fillers are gel-like substances applied into the skin to fill a sunken zone to give it a fuller look. The majority of fillers are hyaluronic acid-based. It is a painless procedure (most clinics will apply a topical anesthetic to the skin before the procedure) that takes approximately 20 minutes, using a tiny needle, and the result is immediate.
Unlike anti-aging skin care products, fillers provide immediate volume and instant results- instead of creams and treatments where some results take weeks or months!. Results usually last anywhere from 3-24 months, depending on the amount of filler and the location.
Why are dermal fillers used?
Fillers help reduce deep lines and wrinkles that regular anti-aging creams can’t fix.
They also fill up thin lips, giving them shape and volume.
As you age, you lose fat on your face, leaving hollows on your cheeks and deepening lines around your mouth and nose. Fillers replace lost volume in these places.
Facial filler procedures can deliver prompt outcomes devoid of surgery and downtime. Most individuals can resume their normal activities on the same day.
Fillers have a natural appearance without looking like you had work done. Alone, results look natural when they're done right. The person still looks like him or herself, but looks younger and a little more rejuvenated.
Fillers and Botox can be combined: the former volumizes the areas, and Botox inhibits the formation of wrinkles through relaxing muscles.
What’s Inside Your Filler? Exploring Filler Types
The most important thing anyone considering having fillers should have is an understanding of the different types of fillers. Yes, a filler does not have only one category. So, before booking any appointments, let’s first break down the types of fillers you can get.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid (HA) makes up 85% of all dermal fillers used today. This sugar molecule holds 1,000 times its weight in water. Restylane uses NASHA technology. Juvéderm employs Hylacross processing. Each brand creates different thickness levels for specific face areas. Most products now contain a lidocaine numbing agent within the filler itself- this dissolves on its own shortly after the procedure, usually within a few hours to a couple of days.

Calcium hydroxylapatite
Calcium hydroxylapatite contains microscopic spheres in a gel base. Radiesse is the main brand known for using this ingredient in their filler. The spheres stimulate new collagen growth over 12-15 months. This filler is usually injected deeper than hyaluronic acid fillers. Results appear immediately and improve gradually.
Poly-L-lactic acid
Poly-L-lactic acid works differently from other fillers. Sculptra (the main filler that utilizes this ingredient) works by stimulating the skin’s natural collagen production rather than simply adding volume.
Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid fillers that offer immediate results, Sculptra gradually restores facial volume over a few months, making it ideal for areas like the cheeks, temples, and jawline. Results can last up to two years or more, and while it’s not reversible like HA fillers, it offers a more subtle and long-lasting approach to facial rejuvenation. Patients need 2-3 treatment sessions spaced 6 weeks apart. Full results take 6 months to develop.
Polymethylmethacrylate
Polymethylmethacrylate beads stay permanently in the skin. Bellafill is a long-lasting dermal filler made with a combination of collagen and tiny polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres. The collagen provides immediate volume and smoothing, while the PMMA microspheres remain in place to support long-term collagen production. Unlike most fillers that last several months to a year, Bellafill can last up to five years, making it one of the longest-lasting options available. It’s commonly used for deeper smile lines (nasolabial folds) and acne scars, and is best suited for patients looking for a more permanent solution to facial volume loss.
Dermal Fillers vs Botox Applications

Though often used together, dermal fillers and Botox serve different purposes in facial aesthetics and anti-aging treatments. Understanding how each works can help you choose the best approach—or combination—for your goals.
Botox: Relaxing Dynamic Wrinkles
Botox (the most recognized brand of neuromodulators) works by temporarily relaxing muscles that cause expression lines. By blocking nerve signals to these muscles, it prevents movement that leads to wrinkles over time.
It’s especially effective for:
Forehead lines
Frown lines (between the brows)
Crow’s feet (around the eyes)
Botox is commonly used as both a corrective and preventive treatment. Results typically last 3–4 months, after which muscle movement gradually returns.
Fillers: Restoring Lost Volume
Unlike Botox, dermal fillers address static wrinkles—lines that appear even when your face is at rest. Fillers work by restoring volume beneath the skin, softening folds, and enhancing contours.
They’re ideal for:
Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
Marionette lines (from mouth to chin)
Hollow cheeks or temples
Fillers are also used for subtle enhancement, such as in the lips, chin, or jawline. Depending on the formula, results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Can You Combine Them?
Yes—and many people do. Botox and fillers complement each other beautifully:
Botox softens expression lines caused by muscle movement
Fillers smooth deeper, etched-in wrinkles and restore volume
When using both, timing matters:It’s generally recommended to administer Botox first, then wait about two weeks before applying filler. This ensures optimal placement and minimizes the risk of migration.
Many patients alternate treatments every 3–6 months depending on their aesthetic goals.
Treatment Areas and Volume Requirements
Nasolabial folds
Those smile lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth. Are one of the most common spots people treat with filler. If the lines are moderate, you’re usually looking at 0.5 to 1 mL per side. For deeper wrinkles, it can take 1.5 mL or more. Most people see results that last 9 to 12 months.
Marionette lines
These run from the corners of the mouth down toward the chin—and they can make you look sad or tired, even when you’re not. Depending on how deep the lines are, it typically takes 0.5 to 1.5 mL per side to smooth things out. Placement here really matters to avoid any unevenness.
Cheek
Volume here tends to disappear with age, which can leave the face looking hollow or worn out. Filler here can make a big difference, with most treatments using 1 to 3 mL per cheek. Injecting at different depths helps restore a natural, lifted look. Thicker fillers are usually the go-to for this area.
Lips
Balance is key. If you just want a subtle boost, 0.5 mL might be plenty. If you’re going for more volume, you could need 1.0 to 1.5 mL. That said, less is often more—overfilling can lead to that overly plumped, duck-like look no one wants.
Under-eye hollows
Aka tear troughs are a tricky area. As we age, the fat around the eyes shrinks, making this zone look sunken or tired. Treatments here use only about 0.2 to 0.5 mL per eye. Because the skin is thin and there are lots of blood vessels, it’s crucial to have an experienced injector. This is one area where technique really matters—done wrong, it can cause serious issues.

Injection Procedures and Techniques
Before any Aging skin treatments, a thorough medical history must be obtained by your practitioner. Patients with active skin infections are not eligible for fillers. Also, if you are using Blood thinners, it can increase the risk of bruising, and autoimmune conditions may affect healing.
Pre-Treatment Skin Preparation: The face is cleaned to remove makeup and surface bacteria. An antiseptic solution is applied to eliminate any remaining germs. A topical numbing cream (usually Lidocaine) is then applied about 20-40 minutes before the procedure. Some doctors may use dental nerve blocks for lip treatments for deeper anesthesia.
Injection Techniques and Tools: Needle size depends on the treatment area—most commonly, 25-30 gauge needles are used. In vascular areas, blunt-tipped cannulas are preferred to minimize bleeding. Two common techniques include:
Linear threading – where filler is injected along the wrinkle line
Serial puncture – which involves placing small deposits of filler through multiple tiny injections
Post-Treatment Care: After injections, the treated area may be gently massaged to distribute the filler evenly. Ice packs are usually provided to help reduce immediate swelling. Patients are advised to avoid exercise for 24 hours and sleep upright or on their backs for the first two nights to minimize puffiness.
Side Effects and Risk Management
Swelling peaks 24-48 hours after treatment. This is a normal body response to injection trauma. Cold compresses help reduce puffiness. Most swelling resolves within one week completely.
Bruising affects 20-30% of patients. Marks usually disappear in 7-10 days. Makeup can cover the discoloration in the healing process, and arnica cream can accelerate healing.
Lumps and bumps happen in 1-2% of cases. A gentle massage often smooths minor irregularities. Persistent nodules may need hyaluronidase injection. This enzyme dissolves hyaluronic acid fillers quickly.
Vascular Occlusion The most serious effect of dermal fillers is vascular occlusion, when a filler blocks blood circulation to some parts of the skin- this may result in tissue death. Nonetheless, injections of hyaluronidase can enhance circulation in case of emergency.
Doctor Selection Criteria
Consider a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, ARNP, or certified injectioner because they know best when it comes to anatomy and dermal fillers.
Examine before and after pictures, read reviews, and do not make a hasty consultation or use persuasive methods. Your doctor should be good, very clear, and concerned about your safety. Go with the practitioner who resonates the most with you- not just the lowest price.
Understanding Dermal Filler Costs
Prices of dermal fillers may differ significantly, depending on the location, level of expertise of the provider, and the type of filler. Although very tempting, cheap offers can jeopardize safety and outcomes.
Location Matters: Cities such as New York or Los Angeles are approximately 40% higher than in small towns.
Experience Affects the price: Board-certified specialists tend to receive higher prices than general practitioners.
Typical Price Ranges:
Hyaluronic acid fillers: between 400-800 per syringe
Radiesse and Sculptra: between 800 and 1200 dollars per application
Touch-Ups and Maintenance: Follow-up sessions typically incur less product; the annual cost varies with individual aging tendency.

What Affects Dermal Filler Longevity and Results
Metabolism & Lifestyle
Your body’s natural metabolism plays a major role in how long filler lasts. People with faster metabolisms—often younger, more active individuals—may break down filler more quickly than those with slower metabolic rates. Additionally, lifestyle habits like frequent intense exercise, high sun exposure, and smoking can all accelerate the breakdown of filler. These factors create oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which affects how long the product stays intact. A healthy lifestyle and sun protection can help extend your results.
Consistency Is Key
Just like any other aspect of skincare, consistency with filler maintenance leads to better long-term outcomes. Regular touch-ups every 9 to 12 months help preserve volume and shape before the filler fully dissolves, which can prevent the need for larger, more costly treatments later. Keeping a maintenance schedule also allows your injector to make subtle adjustments over time rather than correcting a dramatic loss of volume all at once. Think of it as a proactive approach to aging gracefully.
Keep Expectations Grounded
It’s important to view fillers as enhancements—not transformations. They’re designed to restore volume, soften lines, and improve symmetry, but they won’t drastically change your face or reverse aging altogether. Dramatic overfilling can look unnatural and draw attention for the wrong reasons. A conservative approach, where results build gradually over time, tends to be more flattering and better aligned with long-term satisfaction. Trust your injector to guide you toward realistic, balanced outcomes that highlight your features.
Final Thoughts
Dermal fillers are just one tool in the broader journey of taking care of yourself and your skin. When done thoughtfully, they can help restore confidence, balance, and a more refreshed appearance, without changing who you are.
The key is understanding your options, working with a provider you trust, and setting realistic expectations.
If you found this helpful, don’t miss out on future skincare insights, tips, and expert-backed advice. Visit Masque Skin or subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop on everything you need to care for your skin—confidently and intentionally.
This article was reviewed by Sheila Peck, AR-NP
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