What Are Fillers?

Fillers, also known as dermal fillers or soft tissue fillers, are injectable substances used to restore volume, smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Common treatment areas include the cheeks, lips, under-eyes, nasolabial folds, jawline, and temples.

Types of Fillers

There are several types of fillers, each suited for specific treatment goals:

  • Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
  • Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
  • Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
  • Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
  • Autologous Fat Grafting (Fat harvested from your own body can be injected as a natural filler to restore volume)
Fillers

How Fillers Work

Fillers work by replenishing volume beneath the skin’s surface, which can diminish due to aging, weight loss, or genetics. Once injected, they lift and smooth areas that have become sunken or wrinkled. Some fillers also stimulate your skin’s own collagen production over time, improving skin quality and elasticity.

Who Is Suitable for Fillers?

You may be a suitable candidate for fillers if you:

  • Have mild to moderate volume loss or wrinkles
  • Want to enhance features such as lips, cheeks, or jawline
  • Prefer a non-surgical solution with minimal downtime
  • Are in good general health and have realistic expectations

Fillers are suitable for both men and women and can be customised for individuals of all ages.

Contraindications: Fillers are not recommended for individuals with active skin infections, allergies to filler components, or certain autoimmune conditions.

Fillers

What to Expect

The procedure typically takes 15–45 minutes, depending on the number of areas treated

A topical numbing cream or fillers containing lidocaine can minimise discomfort

Results are visible immediately for most HA fillers, with further improvement over the next few days as swelling subsides.

Non invasive/ Minimally invasive aesthetic treatment

Recovery Process and Post-Procedure Care

Recovery is generally minimal. Most patients can resume daily activities right after the procedure, though some may experience:

  • Mild swelling, bruising, or redness
  • Tenderness at the injection site
  • Asymmetry or small lumps that usually resolve in a few days

Post-care tips include:

  • Avoid touching or massaging treated areas for 24–48 hours
  • Refrain from strenuous exercise and alcohol for 24 hours
  • Apply a cold compress if needed to reduce swelling

Non invasive/ Minimally invasive aesthetic treatment Risks and Complications

When performed by a qualified medical professional, fillers are generally safe. However, potential risks include:

  • Bruising and swelling
  • Infection
  • Allergic reactions
  • Lumps or unevenness
  • Skin discolouration
  • Rare complications such as vascular occlusion (blocked blood flow) resulting in tissue ischaemia and loss or blindness

      • Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon or certified injector is key to minimising these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

HA fillers typically last 6–18 months, depending on the product and area treated. Longer-lasting fillers like CaHA and PLLA can last up to 2 years or more.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Topical anaesthetics or lidocaine-containing fillers are often used for a more comfortable experience.

Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using hyaluronidase. Other fillers are not reversible and need to be metabolised by the body.

Yes, fillers can be combined with treatments such as Botox, lasers, or thread lifts for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

When done correctly by a trained professional, fillers provide subtle and natural-looking results. The key is a conservative and individualised approach.