Which Dermal Filler is Right for Me?

A dermal filler is a type of injectable filler that can enhance and restore volume in various areas of the face. There are many different types of dermal fillers available, each varying in formula, particle size, longevity, and more. This might make learning about fillers and deciding which is best a bit daunting. In this guide, we will explain the differences between each of our fillers, allowing you to make informed decisions about your cosmetic treatment.

If you are ready to restore a youthful-looking appearance or improve contouring with dermal fillers, New York Surgical Arts is prepared to help! Led by board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gordon Andan, our team has helped thousands of patients achieve exceptional, natural-looking results.

To schedule your personal consultation at either our New York City or Garden City offices, please contact us online or call (516) 746-0155.

About Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are minimally invasive and FDA-approved injectable treatments that can be administered to restore lost volume, smooth the skin, and plump key areas. At New York Surgical Arts, we offer fillers formulated from hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and poly-L-lactic acid to effectively address a wide range of concerns.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a deeply hydrating substance naturally found in the body. This substance is well-known for its ability to draw moisture to the skin by binding to water molecules. HA is widely used throughout different types of medicine. (1)

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is composed of a naturally occurring compound. (2) CaHA fillers are considered semipermanent, as they are still absorbed over time but last longer than HA fillers. These dermal fillers contain tiny microparticles suspended in a water-based gel carrier that work to stimulate collagen production to build volume.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a synthetic polymer known for its biostimulatory effects. When administered under the skin, PLLA stimulates collagen production, improving the skin’s overall appearance. This FDA-approved injectable is ideal for diminishing facial wrinkles and nasolabial folds. Biostimulatory fillers offer gradual results as collagen levels improve over time. (3)

Benefits

There are several benefits of receiving dermal fillers, including:

  • Non-Surgical Options: Dermal fillers provide an alternative to facial surgery, offering temporary solutions without incisions or a lengthy recovery time.
  • Versatility: Dermal fillers can treat various facial concerns, such as wrinkles and hollowing. They can also be administered to enhance and augment the shape of the cheeks, nose, or lips.
  • Minimal Discomfort: Injections are tolerable and quick, and a topical anesthetic can be applied to alleviate potential discomfort.
  • Natural-Looking Results: Our skilled injection specialists can create subtle yet impactful results that enhance your natural appearance, avoiding an ‘overfilled’ appearance.
  • Enhanced Confidence: After seeing their results, patients often report an improvement in their self-esteem and confidence.
  • Lasting Effects: Depending on the type of dermal filler used, results can last for up to two years.
  • FDA-Approval: All of the products we use are FDA-approved, backed by studies, and considered safe when administered by qualified professionals.

Candidates

Anyone interested in restoring lost facial volume and addressing visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles or creases, may be eligible for dermal fillers. We also recommend this treatment for patients interested in enhancing the appearance or fullness of their cheeks or lips. All candidates interested in receiving dermal fillers should be in good overall health and keep realistic expectations for their results.

Personal Consultation

Trying to determine the right type of filler for your concerns can be overwhelming, which is why the first step in your treatment is attending a consultation. One of our injection specialists will ask about your medical history, appearance concerns, and desired results. An evaluation may also be performed to examine volume loss and skin laxity. Using this information, we will recommend the best type of dermal filler, and your personalized injection plan will be created.

To schedule your personal consultation at either one of our locations, please contact us online or call (516) 746-0155.

Preparation

In preparation for their treatment, patients will need to modify their skincare routine to avoid harsh products, such as chemical peels, retinoids, and exfoliants. Alcohol consumption and nicotine use should be avoided for several days before the procedure, and we may advise you to avoid any medications or supplements with blood-thinning properties. You will receive a comprehensive set of instructions tailored to your medical history and treatment plan, so please follow them closely to optimize your results.

Procedure

Restylane®

Restylane is a portfolio of HA-based dermal fillers that are administered to address signs of facial aging, such as facial wrinkles or folds. Restylane is designed to act like the hyaluronic acid that naturally occurs in the body, and is often used to fill in scars.

Restylane® Silk

Restylane Silk is an HA-based dermal filler designed to fill in fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. This filler contains HA that has been modified to last longer in the body and is often administered to fill in smokers’ lines and enhance the fullness and shape of the lips.

Juvederm®

Juvederm is a collection of HA-based fillers that are each designed to address a different part of the face. Juvederm is administered to help fill in creases and fine lines, and it ranges in formulation and particle size.

Juvederm Voluma® XC

Juvederm Voluma XC is an HA-based dermal filler that is often administered to augment the cheeks. This dermal filler contains crosslinked HA that moves more easily with facial expressions. (4)

Radiesse®

Radiesse is a CaHA-based dermal filler that is known to last longer. Radiesse is used to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, as well as restore volume in areas experiencing hollowing. Injection sites often include the brows, cheeks, nasolabial folds, nose, lips, and more. (5)

Sculptra®

Sculptra is a biostimulator formulated from PLLA, or poly-L-lactic acid. It is used to correct significant volume loss and diminish facial wrinkles and creases. Sculptra works by stimulating collagen production, which means patients can see their results develop gradually over time. (6)

Recovery and Results

After an injection session, patients are free to return to their normal routines after their treatment. There is essentially no downtime associated with dermal fillers. However, physical activities and high-intensity exercises should be avoided for 24-48 hours. It is normal to experience mild swelling or tenderness near the injection sites, but these effects dissipate on their own within several days.

Patients may see results manifest immediately or gradually, depending on the type of filler received. When results manifest, patients will see improved and restored facial volume, as well as an overall reduction in wrinkles and creases. Patients may also see an improvement in the appearance and health of their skin if they receive a collagen-stimulating filler. The results of dermal fillers can vary, with patients experiencing results that can last between six months to two years.

Corresponding Procedures

Botox®

Botox is a neuromodulator that inhibits the transmission of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for the repeated facial muscle contractions that form wrinkles. Botox can suspend the muscles in a semi-relaxed state, allowing the skin to smooth itself out and restore a more youthful-looking appearance. Many patients choose to include Botox alongside their dermal filler injectable for more comprehensive results.

To learn more about the other procedures we offer at New York Surgical Arts, please visit our blog!

Cost of Dermal Fillers in New York City

The cost of each patient’s treatment can depend on several factors, such as the type of filler used and the number of units needed to achieve their desired results. You will receive a comprehensive price quote after discussing your goals during your consultation. New York Surgical Arts also offers patients ways to finance the cost of their treatment.

To unlock the cost of your treatment, please schedule a consultation by contacting us online or calling (516) 746-0155.

FAQ

Are dermal fillers safe?

When administered by a qualified professional, dermal fillers are considered safe and minimally invasive. Each brand of filler we carry has been FDA-approved.

How long will the results of my dermal fillers last?

Results from dermal fillers can last between six months to two years, depending on several individual factors and the type of filler administered.

Is there any required downtime after receiving my dermal fillers?

There is essentially no downtime required after dermal filler injections. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after, though we do recommend taking the next day or two easy.

Can my dermal fillers be combined with another treatment?

Yes, patients are more than welcome to combine treatments for more cohesive results. We recommend scheduling a personal consultation to discuss each of your available combination options.

References

  1. Walker K, Basehore BM, Zito PM. Hyaluronic Acid. Nih.gov. Published July 3, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482440/
  2. Loghem JV, Yana Alexandrovna Yutskovskaya, Werschler WP. Calcium Hydroxylapatite: Over a Decade of Clinical Experience. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2015;8(1):38. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4295857/
  3. Sickles CK, Nassereddin A, Gross GP. Poly-L-Lactic Acid. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507871/
  4. Voluma J. Accessed June 6, 2025. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf11/p110033c.pdf
  5. Jacovella P. Use of calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse®) for facial augmentation. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2008;Volume 3:161-174. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/cia.s2065
  6. Sánchez-Carpintero I, Candelas D, Ruiz-Rodríguez R. Dermal Fillers: Types, Indications, and Complications. Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas (English Edition). 2010;101(5):381-393. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s1578-2190(10)70660-0
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