What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are minimally invasive cosmetic treatments that help restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. They are commonly used to address fine lines, deep folds, sunken cheeks, or hollow areas under the eyes, providing a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
During the procedure, a trained specialist injects biocompatible filler materials into the targeted areas of the face. The results are visible immediately, with improvements in facial symmetry, volume, and overall aesthetics. Dermal fillers are safe, quick, and require minimal downtime, making them a popular choice for non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
Types of Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers come in different types, each designed to target specific concerns and provide tailored facial rejuvenation:
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: These fillers hydrate and plump the skin, reducing fine lines and adding volume to areas like lips and cheeks (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane).
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers: Ideal for deeper wrinkles and facial contouring, these fillers provide structure and lift for a more defined appearance (e.g., Radiesse).
- Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers: Stimulate collagen production to gradually restore volume and improve skin elasticity for long-lasting results (e.g., Sculptra).
- PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) Fillers: Semi-permanent fillers used for deep wrinkles, scars, or long-term volume enhancement (e.g., Bellafill).
- Fat Grafting / Autologous Fat Fillers: Uses the patient's own fat, harvested from areas like the abdomen or thighs, to restore natural facial volume and smooth contours.
- Combination or Customized Fillers: In some cases, specialists may combine different filler types to achieve optimal results based on the patient's facial structure and cosmetic goals.
This approach ensures each patient receives a personalized treatment plan for natural-looking, balanced results.
30-90 Minutes
Surgery Duration
Local Anesthesia
Anesthesia Used
24-48 Hours
Full Recovery Timeline

When Are Fillers Recommended?
Dermal fillers are versatile cosmetic treatments designed to enhance facial aesthetics and restore youthful contours.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Smooths fine lines and wrinkles, including crow's feet, forehead lines, and smoker's lines around the lips.
- Nasolabial Folds & Marionette Lines: Softens deep lines from the nose to the mouth and corners of the lips for a smoother, rejuvenated appearance.
- Lip Enhancement: Adds volume, defines the lip border, and creates a plumper, more youthful look.
- Cheek Augmentation: Restores fullness to the cheeks, enhancing facial contours and providing a natural lift.
- Under-Eye Hollows & Tear Troughs: Reduces under-eye hollowness, minimizing a tired or aged appearance.
- Non-Surgical Nose Reshaping: Corrects minor nose imperfections, enhances symmetry, and subtly reshapes the nose without surgery.
- Jawline Contouring: Defines the jawline, reduces jowls, and creates a sculpted, youthful profile.
- Acne Scar Correction: Fills depressed acne scars to improve skin texture and achieve a smoother surface.
- Hand Rejuvenation: Restores volume to hands, reducing visible veins and tendons for a youthful look.
- Temple & Brow Enhancement: Adds volume to the temples and lifts the brow area for a refreshed appearance.
- Enhancing Facial Symmetry: Balances asymmetrical features for a harmonious facial appearance.
- Softening Facial Creases: Smooths deep creases, such as "11" lines between eyebrows and horizontal forehead lines.
- Restoring Volume Loss: Replenishes facial volume lost due to aging for a rejuvenated look.
- Scar Camouflage: Improves appearance of certain scars, enhancing overall skin texture and smoothness.
Preparing for Dermal Filler Procedure
Proper preparation helps ensure a safe and effective filler treatment, as well as smooth post-procedure results. Here's what patients should know before the procedure:
Consultation & Assessment
- Schedule a consultation with a qualified cosmetic specialist to discuss your aesthetic goals, concerns, and expectations.
- Your provider will review your medical history, allergies, and current medications to tailor the treatment safely.
- The type of filler, target areas, and expected outcomes will be explained in detail.
Medical Evaluation & Pre-Treatment Tests
- While fillers generally require minimal testing, your provider may request basic health information or allergy screening to ensure safety.
- Some patients may need skin evaluation or photographs to plan the treatment precisely.
Medication & Lifestyle Adjustments
- Avoid blood-thinning medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, or certain supplements a few days before the procedure to reduce bruising.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine, as they may increase swelling or bleeding.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support optimal skin condition.
Day Before & Day of Procedure
- Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face if receiving facial fillers.
- Avoid applying lotions, oils, or skincare products to the treatment area.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing, especially if receiving fillers in the neckline or chest.
- If you are using numbing cream as advised, apply it according to your provider's instructions.
Post-Procedure Planning
- Plan light activities and avoid strenuous exercise immediately after the procedure.
- Arrange transportation if needed, as mild swelling or redness may occur.
- Follow your provider's instructions on post-treatment care, including avoiding sun exposure, heat, or certain skincare products for a few days.
Ask Questions & Clarify Doubts
- Discuss expected results, possible side effects like swelling or bruising, and post-treatment care with your specialist.
- Ask about follow-up appointments, touch-ups, and how long results may last to ensure a smooth and satisfying experience.
What Happens During a Dermal Fillers Procedure?
A dermal filler procedure is performed to restore volume, reduce wrinkles, and enhance facial features. The treatment follows carefully planned steps to ensure safety, precision, and natural-looking results.
Initial Consultation & Planning
Before surgery, the surgeon reviews medical history, performs physical examinations, and may recommend imaging tests. This helps outline a clear surgical plan and anticipate possible treatments during the procedure.
Preparation of Treatment Area
The target areas are cleaned and sterilized. To minimize discomfort, a topical numbing cream may be applied, and in some cases, local anesthesia may be used for sensitive areas.
Injection Technique
Using a fine needle or cannula, the filler is carefully injected into the predetermined areas. The technique, depth, and volume of injection depend on the type of filler, the area being treated, and your individual needs.
Monitoring & Adjustments
Throughout the procedure, the provider monitors the injections to ensure symmetry and a natural appearance. Adjustments are made as necessary to achieve balanced and harmonious results.
Immediate Results & Assessment
Once the injections are complete, immediate improvements in volume, contour, and skin smoothness are visible. The provider may gently massage the treated areas to ensure even distribution of the filler.
Post-Treatment Guidance
After the procedure, patients receive instructions on post-care, including avoiding strenuous activity, heat exposure, or excessive facial pressure for a few days. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor results and perform touch-ups if necessary.
Who Will Perform the Fillers Procedure?
A filler procedure is typically performed by qualified and licensed medical professionals who have specialized training in aesthetic medicine and cosmetic procedures.
Here are the types of medical professionals who commonly administer fillers:
- Dermatologist: Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating skin conditions. Many dermatologists also have expertise in cosmetic dermatology, including administering fillers to enhance the appearance of the skin and address signs of aging.
- Plastic Surgeon: Plastic surgeons are medical doctors with extensive training in surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures. They are well-versed in facial anatomy and have the skills to perform fillers to achieve natural-looking results.
- Facial Plastic Surgeon: Facial plastic surgeons are specialized plastic surgeons who focus exclusively on procedures related to the face and neck. They have in-depth knowledge of facial aesthetics and can provide personalized filler treatments.
- Cosmetic Surgeon: Cosmetic surgeons specialize in various cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical. They often offer a range of treatments, including fillers, to help individuals achieve their desired aesthetic goals.
- Medical Aesthetic Practitioner: Some medical professionals, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, receive specialized training in aesthetic medicine. They can administer fillers under the supervision of a licensed physician.
- Registered Nurse (RN): Registered nurses with training and certification in medical aesthetics can also perform fillers. They often work under the supervision of a physician and have the necessary skills to deliver safe and effective treatments.
- Licensed Aesthetician: In some regions, licensed aestheticians with advanced training and certification may be authorized to perform certain non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including filler treatments.
Recovery After Fillers Procedure
Recovery after dermal fillers is generally quick, with most patients resuming normal routines the same day. Still, proper aftercare is important to ensure safety, reduce side effects, and achieve the best results.
First Few Hours
- Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness around the injection site is common. Your provider may apply a cold compress immediately after treatment to minimize discomfort.
Doctor's Tip: "Apply a cold pack gently on the treated area for 10-15 minutes at a time. Avoid touching or massaging unless instructed."
First 1-2 days
- Swelling and minor bruising may persist but usually improve within 24-48 hours.
- Makeup can be applied if needed, but avoid heavy pressure on the treated area.
Doctor's Tip: "Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and excessive caffeine for the first 24 hours to prevent increased swelling."
First Week
- The filler begins to settle into the skin, and results become more refined. Any lingering bruising should fade.
- Protect your skin from sun exposure with SPF 30 or higher.
Doctor's Tip: "Use gentle skincare products. Skip facials, peels, or massages in the treated area for at least a week."
Weeks 2-4
- Full results are typically visible as swelling completely subsides and the filler integrates with your skin's natural structure.
- Follow-up visits may be scheduled to assess outcomes.
Doctor's Tip: "If you notice unevenness or are considering a touch-up, discuss this during your follow-up rather than attempting self-massage."
Long-Term Care (3 Months and Beyond)
- Depending on the type of filler, results can last from 6 months to 2 years.
- Maintenance sessions may be recommended to preserve results.
Doctor's Tip: "Adopt a healthy lifestyle, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking to prolong filler results."
Benefits of Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are minimally invasive cosmetic treatments that restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours, providing natural-looking rejuvenation without the need for surgery.
- Restores Lost Volume: Fills areas affected by age-related volume loss such as cheeks, under eyes, and temples, giving a more youthful appearance.
- Smooths Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Reduces the appearance of static wrinkles, folds, and creases, particularly around the nose, mouth, and chin.
- Enhances Facial Contours: Improves definition of lips, jawline, and cheekbones, allowing for balanced and aesthetically pleasing results.
- Immediate and Noticeable Results: Visible improvements can be seen right after the procedure, with results continuing to refine over the following days.
- Non-Surgical and Quick Recovery: Performed as an outpatient procedure with minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume most daily activities quickly.
- Customizable Treatment: Different filler types and techniques allow results to be tailored to each patient's needs and aesthetic goals.
- Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem: Improves overall facial harmony, helping patients feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance.
Risks of Fillers
Like all medical treatments, dermal fillers carry certain risks that patients should understand before undergoing the procedure:
- Swelling and Bruising: Common temporary effects at the injection site, usually resolving within a few days.
- Asymmetry or Irregularities: Uneven results may occur if filler placement shifts or settles unevenly.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare, but possible, especially with certain filler types.
- Infection: Though uncommon, there is a risk of infection at the injection site if proper hygiene is not maintained.
- Lumps or Nodules: Small bumps may form under the skin if filler is unevenly distributed.
- Vascular Complications: If filler accidentally enters a blood vessel, it may cause skin damage or, in rare cases, vision problems.
- Temporary Discomfort: Mild pain, redness, or itching at the injection area may occur.
- Need for Maintenance: Since fillers are not permanent, follow-up treatments are necessary to sustain results.
- Unrealistic Expectations: Patients must understand that fillers can enhance features but cannot completely reverse aging.
Cost of Dermal Fillers in India
The cost of dermal fillers depends on the type of filler, treatment area, and the amount required. On average, the cost in India ranges from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 40,000 per syringe. The total expense may vary based on the number of syringes used and the complexity of the treatment. Results last 6 months to 2 years, so touch-ups may be required.
Note: The above costs are approximate estimates and not the exact pricing. Please contact the hospital directly to get an accurate treatment cost based on your specific requirements.