Decades ago, we may be precarious with any sort of injectable. Today, it’s the norm!
With safer, quicker, and better treatments available, coupled with highly skilled practitioners and advanced techniques, it’s only expected that there will be a noticeable shift in attitudes towards fillers.
We’ve even seen the stunning effects of facial fillers grace the faces of many celebrities the likes of Ariana Grande, Kylie Jenner, Courteney Cox, Korean rapper Jessi, and more — further normalising the conversation of fillers, injectables, and plastic surgery.
Curious about “face fillers” and how you can achieve uber natural-looking results from professional aesthetic doctors? Read all about it below!
- What Are "Face Fillers"?
- The Lure and Popularity of Fillers
- Types of Fillers
- Benefits of Facial Fillers
- How Long Do Fillers Last?
- The Fillers Process: What’s It Like?
- How Much Do Fillers Cost?
- Best Clinics to Get “Face Fillers” in Singapore
- Post-filler Aftercare Tips
- Risks or Potential Complications of Fillers
- Do the Different Brands of Fillers Matter?
- Botox vs. Fillers
What Are “Face Fillers”?
Credit: Depositphotos
Also commonly known as dermal fillers or facial fillers, “face fillers” are substances injected into the skin to fill in lines, wrinkles, and hollow areas.
Administered by qualified medical professionals like dermatologists or plastic surgeons, fillers are used to restore volume and provide a smoother, more youthful appearance.
The Lure and Popularity of Fillers
Credit: M Aesthetics Clinic
In 2019, the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery noted in their Global Survey that 13.6m non-surgical treatments were carried out worldwide — 4.3 million of which involved hyaluronic acid dermal fillers.
That was a 15.7% increase from 2018 and a 50.6% increase since 2015!
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, minimally invasive procedures like fillers remained popular in 2023, despite the risk of an “overfilled face” and the growing trend of face sculpting treatments.
This year, Dr Babak Azizzadeh, a foremost expert in plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine and the Director and Head Surgeon of the Beverly Hills practice, predicted that the use of dermal fillers will evolve to become more strategic and tailored.
“2024 will witness a shift towards a more judicious and artistic use of fillers, moving away from over-enhancement to subtle, natural-looking results,” shared Dr Azizzadeh.
Types of Fillers
Credit: M Aesthetics Clinic
Not all fillers are created equal. In fact, different types of facial fillers vary in composition and duration of effects.
The choice of filler would depend on factors like specific areas to be treated, the desired outcomes, and individual patient characteristics.
Some common types of fillers are:
- Hyaluronic acid fillers: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps maintain hydration and volume. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, are popular for softening facial wrinkles and adding volume to areas like the lips and cheeks.
- Collagen fillers: Some fillers contain collagen derived from humans or animals since this protein provides structure to the skin. However, these are less commonly used today due to the availability of other options and the potential for allergic reactions.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers: These fillers, such as Radiesse, contain tiny, smooth calcium hydroxylapatite particles suspended in a gel. They are used to stimulate the production of collagen and provide longer-lasting results.
- Poly-L-lactic acid fillers: Sculptra is an example of a poly-L-lactic acid filler. It helps stimulate collagen production over time, resulting in a gradual improvement in volume and skin quality.
Before you embark on your facial filler journey, make sure you consult with a qualified and experienced healthcare professional to determine the most suitable filler for you and to ensure a safe and effective procedure.
Benefits of Facial Fillers
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Why are fillers so popular? There are numerous benefits to getting facial fillers:
- Wrinkle reduction: Gel-filled injections are often used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, particularly those caused by ageing or sun damage. They add volume to areas where collagen and fat have depleted, leading to a smoother and more youthful look.
- Restoring volume: As we age, we may experience a loss of facial volume, resulting in sagging or hollow areas. Facial fillers can help restore volume by providing a more lifted appearance.
- Natural-looking results: When administered by skilled professionals, facial fillers can provide glowing, natural-looking results. They allow for precise control over the amount of product used to ensure a balanced and harmonious enhancement.
- Non-surgical solution: Unlike surgical facelifts, facial fillers offer a non-invasive or minimally invasive alternative. This means less downtime, fewer risks, and a quicker recovery for individuals seeking facial rejuvenation.
- Customisable treatment: With various types of fillers and different formulations, a customised approach is enabled to address specific concerns.
- Temporary results with options for reversal: While results are long-lasting, they are not permanent. This allows individuals to reassess their appearance over time and make adjustments as needed. Some fillers also have a reversal agent that can dissolve the filler if desired.
- Quick procedure: Often referred to as a “lunchtime procedure”, facial fillers are typically quick. This convenience appeals to those with busy schedules and who want to enhance their appearance without a significant time commitment.
- Minimal discomfort: Most facial filler injections contain a local anaesthetic or lidocaine, minimising discomfort during the procedure.
@maestheticclinic Getting rid of dark eye circles using Fillers #UndereyeTreatment #Darkeyecircles #AestheticClinic #TikTokSG
Fillers are also used to reduce the appearance of scars, age spots, and other textural concerns.
Some reasons people get facial filers are to plump their lips, smooth out the nose bridge, add volume to the cheeks, minimise the appearance of dark eye circles, smooth out the hands, neck, or chest, and correct asymmetries or abnormalities in the skin or face.
How Long Do Fillers Last?
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The duration of the effects of facial fillers can vary depending on the type of filler used, the specific area treated, individual metabolism, and the quantity of filler injected.
In general, most fillers provide temporary results, and the effects gradually wear off over time.
More specifically, the effects of hyaluronic acid fillers typically last between six months to two years and from 12 to 18 months for calcium hydroxylapatite fillers.
While the results of Poly-L-lactic acid fillers are not immediate, they can last up to two years or more with recommended maintenance treatments to sustain the effects.
Do note that individual experiences can vary and the longevity of filler results is influenced by factors like lifestyle, metabolism, and your skin’s specific characteristics.
The Fillers Process: What’s It Like?
If you’re curious about what happens during your filler procedure, it usually involves site preparation first where the clinician will clean, disinfect, and mark the injection site.
Next, you may be provided with some pain relief with a local anaesthetic, an anaesthetic ointment, or by chilling your skin with a cold instrument.
Then, the targeted areas will be injected with the filler. Each injection shouldn’t take more than a minute but depending on how many areas you’re treating, the process may take from 15 minutes to an hour.
Lastly, you might be given a cool compress to reduce pain and swelling, but you’re free to leave the clinic immediately after the procedure and go about your day as usual.
The treatment site might feel a bit sore for days but several people recover without the need to take any medication for relief.
How Much Do Fillers Cost?
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Prices of face fillers in Singapore can be influenced by market demand, the clinic’s reputation, and any additional services or consultations provided.
The cost generally ranges from S$600 to S$2,500 per syringe but varies according to the type of filler, area of treatment, the clinic’s location, and the practitioner’s experience.
Do keep in mind that the total procedure cost may include more than just the price per syringe. Additional factors, such as consultation fees, follow-up appointments, and any other associated costs, should be considered too.
Best Clinics to Get “Face Fillers” in Singapore
Ready to take years off the “beauty clock” with fillers? We’ve handpicked some of the best clinics to get fillers done in Singapore!
For those who are looking specifically at just nose fillers, check out our other guide on everything you need to know about nose fillers in Singapore.
Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic
This premier medical aesthetic clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, from facials and laser treatments to chemical peels and dermal fillers. They’re known for having the latest technology to help clients look their very best with minimal downtime and discomfort — perfect for busy individuals.
Founder Dr Edwin Lim is a graduate of the National University of Singapore with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS).
He acquired the prestigious post-graduate Royal College of Surgeons membership from Edinburgh (MRCS) and also holds a Post-Graduate Diploma in Practical Dermatology from Cardiff and a Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine from the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine.
Dr Lim only uses treatments that are safe, effective, and supported by medical evidence. Plus, he always recommends customised treatments according to the client’s skin type and concerns.
As for “face fillers”, you can look to them to treat several areas like the temple, nose, cheek, forehead, under eyes, lip, jawline, chin, nasolabial fold, and marionette lines. The clinic also holds a range of FDA-approved fillers: Ellanse, Teosyal, Profhilo, Belotero, Juvederm, and Restylane.
Here’s what a happy customer, Olsen, had to say about their experience:
“I went to Dr Edwin for cheek and lip fillers and I couldn’t be happier with the results! True to what other reviews say, he indeed has a gentle touch and he is also very friendly which made me very comfortable throughout the entire process. My cheeks and lips look so natural and beautiful – I’ve never felt more confident!“
Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic’s fillers are priced from S$800 per syringe.
Halley Medical Aesthetics
One great clinic choice is Halley Medical Aesthetics, which has won accolades for the care and effort they put into their treatment processes.
Although there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution, their treatments are all safe, effective, customised, scientifically proven, and deliver natural-looking results.
Led by Dr Terence Tan, the medical director at Halley Medical Aesthetics, you can look forward to the very best treatments and professionalism.
As a member of the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine, Dr Tan started his aesthetic journey after obtaining his MBBS from Singapore. Then, he acquired surgical qualifications at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh before training further with aesthetic doctors.
Dr Tan is also backed by Dr Mark Lim whose line of interest involves the use of dermal fillers and anti-ageing treatments. Currently, Halley Medical Aesthetics offers a plethora of fillers: Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero, Radiesse, Sculptra, Ellansé, and Algeness.
This clinic also uses modern, on-trend procedures that are minimally invasive and highly sought-after. Plus, they also have Tele-Medicine services for both local and overseas clients!
Here’s what a satisfied customer, Adlyn, had to say about their experience:
“Had my 2nd nose filler done by Dr Terence Tan. Very satisfied with the result! Higher and sharper nose bridge without making me look like an avatar.
Dr Tan is very experienced and skilful. He is not pushy and only recommends treatments that you need. Will definitely come back for other services! Highly recommended!”
Halley Medical Aesthetics’ fillers are priced from S$660 to S$990 per syringe.
SOL Aesthetics Medical Clinic
SOL Aesthetics Medical Clinic focuses on giving an array of treatments to address various face and body aesthetic concerns.
This renowned medical aesthetic clinic and skin care clinic is led by the esteemed Dr Sii, who holds full accreditation in numerous aesthetic procedures and has years of experience and expertise in the field of Aesthetic Medicine.
If you’re seeking help with reversing the signs of ageing like sagging and smile lines, this clinic can help restore volume with fillers. You can even indulge in face contouring in the forehead, jawline, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines to create a fuller and more youthful appearance.
Here’s what a satisfied customer, Taferine, had to say about their experience:
“I have been with Dr Sii for a couple of years doing botox, fillers, and lasers. He has vast knowledge and experience, confidence in handling face issues and injections, and is reliable and advises what is best for you.
No hardselling. I would strongly recommend Dr Sii for all your face and body issues. You are in safe hands.”
SOL Aesthetics Medical Clinic’s fillers are priced from S$800 to S$1,200.
M Aesthetics Clinic
Hemled by Dr Ho Rui Ming, M Aesthetics Clinic provides customised treatments and tailor-made solutions for every patient.
With a passion for aesthetic medicine, Dr Ho attained a Master’s degree in Clinical Dermatology at the St John’s Institute of Dermatology of the University of London and practices in adherence to the standards set by the Singapore Aesthetic Practice Oversight Committee.
He’s also deeply interested in discovering the latest procedures, which means that you’ll probably only get the very best and newest in the aesthetic beauty industry!
The clinic only uses FDA-approved hyaluronic acid fillers which have a lower risk of an allergic reaction, can boost collagen production, and attract water into the skin to plump it up.
Here’s what a happy customer, Edison, had to say about their experience:
“Came across this clinic via a website recommendation and booked an appointment for a face fix. I wanted a higher nose bridge and the doctor recommended I give fillers a try to reduce the laugh line.
The entire procedure and result are so quick and effective. The staff are very welcoming and helpful too. Kudos to the service crew for making me feel so comfortable.”
M Aesthetics Clinic’s Juvederm Fillers are priced from S$838 per syringe.
Bio Aesthetic Laser Clinic
Dubbed an aesthetics connoisseur, Bio Aesthetic have always worked to ensure that all those who go to them for beauty solutions leave satisfied since 2012.
Their team of certified doctors include Dr Vijay Sampath, a graduate with M.B.B.S, M.S, and DNB from The Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh).
He has extensive experience in general, plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery and is accredited by the Singapore Medical Council Aesthetic Practice Oversight Committee.
Meanwhile, Dr Yap Pey Pey has an M.B.B.S from the University of Malaya and is an ADEG-certified aesthetic physician. Fully accredited by the Singapore Medical Council, she brings her affability and multilingualism to patient care.
Completing the repertoire is Dr Justin Goh, an M.B.B.S graduate from the National University of Ireland, who is fully accredited by the Singapore Medical Council Aesthetic Practice Oversight Committee. He specialises in many aesthetic procedures like Botox and non-surgical body contouring.
What’s more, this clinic prides itself on its quality aesthetics and price transparency. You’ll be able to find the price of whatever treatment you’re looking for displayed on their website!
Here’s what a happy customer, Liancy, had to say about their experience:
“Exceptional experience at the aesthetic clinic! Dr Vijay and Felice delivered impeccable filler treatment with skill and precision.
Their expertise and personalised care made the entire process comfortable and the results were outstanding. Grateful for their professionalism and attention to detail. Highly recommend!”
Bio Aesthetic Laser Clinic’s fillers are priced from S$340 to S$1,080.
Sozo Aesthetic Clinic
When you’re looking for an injectable treatment provider, it’s crucial to give your decision the same level of scrutiny as you would for a surgical procedure. Here’s where Sozo Aesthetic Clinic and Dr Justin Boey come in!
A graduate of the National University of Singapore, Dr Boey has trained in well-known institutions like the Harvard Medical School and the Queen Mary University of London.
His extensive skills, knowledge, and experience allow him to offer natural-looking enhancements as a trusted provider of injectable fillers in Singapore.
The clinic has Juvederm and Restylane hyaluronic acid fillers which are ideal for enhancing facial features. It can help you achieve fuller lips, add volume around your cheeks, or contour your face.
Other than using only HSA-approved products, Sozo Aesthetic Clinic also uses the latest technology to achieve optimum results. They also provide thorough assessments to ensure that a suitable and customised treatment plan is created for you.
Here’s what a happy customer, Adeline, had to say about their experience:
“Sozo Aesthetic Clinic exceeded my expectations after trying out their Rejuran fillers. From the welcoming staff to the expert treatment by Dr Justin, the experience was exceptional. The results were great, making my skin more radiant with minimal discomfort and downtime.
The clinic’s hygiene and safety measures were reassuring, and I highly recommend Sozo Aesthetic Clinic for their professionalism and expertise. It’s my go-to place for aesthetic needs. Thank you for your outstanding service!”
Sozo Aesthetic Clinic’s filler treatments start from S$680 per syringe. Contact the clinic to get a customised solution here.
Zion Aesthetic Clinic
Established to provide patients with evidence-based treatments using a results-oriented approach, Zion Aesthetic Clinic offers a full suite of treatment capabilities ranging from medical facials to machine-based treatments like lasers and injectables.
It’s led by aesthetics practitioner Dr Ng Hong Yi, who graduated from the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore in 2007.
With over 10 years of experience under his belt, performing numerous treatments like fillers and skin boosters, Dr Ng was also previously the Chief Medical Officer and trainer of an international aesthetic chain spanning five countries in Asia and was active in educating and training doctors within the group.
Currently, Dr Ng is a faculty of the prestigious Allergan Medical Institute and regularly conducts training to impart botox and filler techniques to new, aspiring doctors.
He’s even had the honour of receiving the “Facial Aesthetics Platinum Award” for Botox and filler usage in 2023 from Allergan Aesthetics.
Here’s what a happy customer, Sylvia, had to say about their experience:
“Dr Ng is very experienced and knows exactly what my face needs. The filler results turned out really good and natural. There’s no hard selling as well. Nurses are all very patient and not pushy. Dr Ng is now my trusted aesthetic doctor to go to!”
Zion Aesthetic Clinic’s fillers are priced from S$398.
Post-filler Aftercare Tips
Of course, just like with any other aesthetic treatment, knowing the aftercare steps is just as important as understanding how “face fillers” work or what to expect from a filler procedure.
Credit: Depositphotos
Here are the tips and recommendations to follow after undergoing a facial filler to ensure a smooth recovery and optimise the results.
- Avoid touching or rubbing the treated areas immediately after the procedure to prevent the risk of infection. This also allows the filler to settle.
- Avoid exercise, strenuous workouts, and intense physical activities for at least 24 to 48 hours post-treatment. This minimises swelling and bruising.
- Use ice packs on the treated areas to help reduce swelling and minimise discomfort. You can use a clean cloth to wrap the ice or ice pack and make sure to avoid direct contact with your skin.
- Avoid and minimise sun exposure or tanning beds for a few days after the procedure. Sun exposure can exacerbate swelling and increase the risk of complications.
- Follow any specific cleansing instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Use a gentle cleanser when washing your face and avoid harsh products for a few days.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol and blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and certain supplements, for a few days after the procedure to minimise the risk of bruising.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as this can contribute to the health and appearance of your skin.
- When sleeping, try to keep your head elevated to reduce swelling. Use an extra pillow to prop yourself up while sleeping.
- Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare professional to assess the results and address any concerns.
- Refrain from getting facial massages or spa treatments that involve the treated areas for a specified period as recommended by your healthcare professional.
Most important of all, be patient! It’s entirely normal to experience some redness, swelling, or bruising post-treatment. However, these effects are typically temporary and will subside in the following days.
Other than that, always follow specific aftercare instructions given to you by your healthcare professional. They may have tailored recommendations based on the type of filler used and your individual needs.
Risks or Potential Complications of Fillers
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When it comes to cosmetic surgery procedures, there are always risks involved. Although serious complications are rare, it’s still important to know what you might expect!
- Asymmetrical appearance
- Pain, bleeding, bruising, redness, and swelling
- Damage to the skin which can lead to scars
- Infection which can cause necrosis (death of the infected skin) in severe cases
- Lumps or bumps under the skin
- Numbness
- Acne and pimples
- Rashes and itching
- Vision problems
- Pain, weakness, or discomfort on one side of the body
Do the Different Brands of Fillers Matter?
Also, if you’re wondering, most of the side effects from “face fillers” are doctor- and technique-dependent. The quality of the filler doesn’t necessarily compromise your safety as it depends on the manufacturer.
You’ll have to look for fillers that have robust manufacturing techniques and are EU, USA, FDA, and Singapore-approved. Different brands of fillers are known to have different reactions and side effects as compared to others.
Hence, it all comes down to the doctor! They must be familiar with the brands and have the right techniques for your filler procedure to be safe and effective.
Botox vs. Fillers
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There’s no winner or fixed answer to this. Both Botox and fillers are popular cosmetic treatments used to address signs of ageing and enhance facial aesthetics.
However, they do work differently and target different concerns, so it really boils down to your needs and preferences. Some people even use both botox and fillers to complement each other and for comprehensive facial rejuvenation!
Botox targets dynamic wrinkles by temporarily relaxing muscles, while fillers add volume to specific areas, addressing static wrinkles and enhancing facial contours.
Feature image credits: M Aesthetics Clinic, SOL Aesthetics Medical Clinic
