Facial filler is applied to correct deformities such as wrinkles, lines, hollow areas, and asymmetry on the face. Deformations can occur due to genetic factors, aging, illnesses, lack of proper care, or frequent use of facial expressions. These deformations can make a person appear older, tired, and unkempt.

The face is the most visible part of the body, and it is difficult to hide imperfections that appear on it. Covering these issues with makeup or cosmetics is neither permanent nor effective. Facial fillers restore the face to its natural, healthy, and smooth state. With facial fillers, which are easy and practical to apply, the effects of aging can be eliminated, and a youthful appearance can be achieved.

What Is Facial Filler?

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Facial filler includes dermal filler and fat injection applications that help cover imperfections in various parts of the face. Applied to areas such as the temples, cheeks, cheekbones, nose, lips, around the eyes, chin, jawline, and corners of the mouth, facial fillers correct all deformities in these regions. Instead of a wrinkled, dry, asymmetrical, lined, or sunken skin appearance, facial fillers provide a smooth, voluminous, and hydrated skin structure. The goal of facial fillers is to achieve a balanced, youthful, and symmetrical appearance.

Which Areas Can Facial Filler Be Applied To?

Facial fillers can be applied to various areas of the face where needed. It can be performed on a single area in one session or on multiple areas depending on the needs. The most common areas for facial filler application include:

  • Temples
  • Cheeks
  • Nose
  • Lips
  • Corners of the mouth, smile lines (nasolabial area)
  • Under-eye area
  • Cheekbones
  • Chin
  • Jawline
  • Eyelids

How Is Facial Filler Applied?

Before facial filler application, the facial areas are examined to identify existing deformities and their severity. Once it is decided that fillers will be used for treatment, a plan is made for which areas and how much filler will be applied. An anesthetic cream is applied to numb the treatment area. The filler substance (hyaluronic acid or fat injection) is then injected into the required areas using a syringe. The procedure takes an average of 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area. After the procedure, the filler is manually shaped and spread across the application area to achieve the desired contour. The patient can return to daily life immediately after the procedure.

Whether hyaluronic acid or fat injection is used for facial filler is determined based on the doctor’s recommendation, the degree of deformity, and which method is more suitable for the patient. Hyaluronic acid filler is readily available for immediate use. For each injection, 1ml of dermal filler is used, and depending on the patient’s needs, 2-8ml of filler can be applied. For fat injection, fat is extracted through liposuction from an area with excess fat. Both methods provide a natural and smooth appearance.

Facial Filler Costs

The cost of facial fillers can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the treatment area, the amount of filler used, the chosen method, the experience of the doctor, and whether the procedure is combined with other treatments.

What Should Be Considered After Facial Filler?

After facial filler application, some people with sensitive skin may experience redness, swelling, or bruising due to the injection. These effects are completely normal and usually disappear within a few days. Cold compresses, with the doctor’s approval, can provide relief. To ensure that the filler remains effective, has a long-lasting effect, and looks natural, the following should be considered:

  • The facial area should be protected from impacts.
  • Makeup and cosmetics should not be applied to the facial area.
  • Hot baths should be avoided, and one should not stay in steam-filled environments.
  • Sun exposure should be avoided.
  • Strenuous activities should be avoided.
  • Plenty of water should be consumed.
  • The facial area should not be rubbed, scratched, or massaged.
  • Sleeping on the face should be avoided; sleeping on the back is recommended.
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Is Facial Filler Permanent?

The settling of facial filler and achieving the desired shape occurs within 7-10 days. If the filler is made with dermal filler (hyaluronic acid), it provides durability for 12-18 months, while fat injection offers durability for up to 36 months. The duration of how long the filler lasts in the body varies not only by the type of filler used but also according to individual characteristics.

What Are the Advantages of Facial Filler?

The benefits and advantages of facial fillers include:

  • Deformations on the face (wrinkles, hollows, dryness, lines) are corrected, resulting in smooth, tight, and radiant skin.
  • Facial asymmetry is addressed with fillers, creating a symmetrical and proportional appearance.
  • The individual’s tired and aged expression is alleviated, leading to a youthful and dynamic look.
  • Deformities such as scars and acne marks on the face are filled with fillers, resulting in smooth and well-maintained skin.
  • The quality of the skin is enhanced by utilizing various filler compositions.
  • Facial fillers are more economical compared to various procedures performed with devices.
  • The longevity of facial fillers can be increased through repeat applications.
  • Facial fillers are easy to apply, provide quick effects, and are generally painless and low-risk procedures.

Are Fillers Applied to the Face Harmful?

Fillers applied to the face are completely harmless and made from FDA-approved ingredients. Since fat injections use the patient’s own body fat, they contain no harmful substances. The active ingredient in dermal fillers is hyaluronic acid, which is a water-based substance naturally found in the human body. It has the ability to retain moisture, creating volume and a lifting effect in the skin.

In addition to hyaluronic acid, various beneficial ingredients (such as zinc, copper, peptides, amino acids, vitamins, etc.) are included in dermal filler brands. The proportion of these substances may vary by brand. When applying dermal fillers, the doctor chooses the brand based on the individual’s skin needs. Therefore, it can be said that the ingredients used in facial fillers are completely harmless.

Are Facial Fillers Risky?

The facial area is a region where important blood vessels are located. Damage to the vessels and nerves in the face can lead to irreversible health issues. It is crucial that the injection points are correctly selected and that the injections are performed by an experienced and skilled practitioner. To avoid any risks associated with fillers, these procedures should always be performed in Ministry of Health-approved clinics, medical centers, or hospitals by experienced plastic surgeons or dermatologists.

Is There Permanent Facial Filler?

Completely permanent fillers are not recommended for health or aesthetic reasons. The requirement for fillers to be safe is that they gradually dissolve and are eliminated from the body over time. While hyaluronic acid fillers last for 12-18 months, fat injections can last up to 36 months. Dermal fillers can be reapplied to extend their longevity once they begin to fade.

Can Facial Asymmetry Be Corrected with Fillers?

Facial asymmetry, where both sides of the face are not proportionate, can be corrected with fillers. By applying filler to both sides of the face or just one side, the face can achieve a symmetrical and proportional appearance.

Will There Be Pain After Facial Fillers?

An anesthetic cream is applied to the facial area before the filler is injected. Due to the effects of the anesthetic cream, the patient does not feel the injection in their face. There is no pain or discomfort during or after the procedure. There is no need for rest or to take painkillers.

How Long Does It Take for Facial Fillers to Settle?

Facial fillers typically settle within 7-10 days. This process can also depend on factors such as the individual’s skin care routine, adherence to the doctor’s recommendations, and metabolic characteristics.

How Long Do Facial Fillers Last?

The durability of facial fillers varies depending on the area treated and the type of filler used. Hyaluronic acid fillers provide an average durability of 12-18 months. Additionally, fillers applied to the temples may not last as long as those applied to the lip area. Since the lip area is highly mobile, fillers in this region may not last as long as those in the relatively immobile temple area. Fillers in areas with significant movement and intense facial expressions tend to have shorter longevity. For longer-lasting results, fat injections may be preferred.

dr.leyla arvas
Author : Op. Dr Leyla ARVAS

Dr Leyla Arvas is an internationally recognised specialist in aesthetic surgery based in Istanbul. Graduated in 1998 from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, she has developed her expertise by studying in Taiwan, Japan and Spain during her 20 years of experience.

This article February 13, 2025 was updated on
Editor: admin@quartz.com.tr