Dermal fillers have become a staple in Singapore’s medical aesthetic clinics. It’s no longer a novelty for people to enhance their facial features or refresh their appearance with these injectable treatments.
As the popularity of dermal fillers continues to grow, it’s important to understand what they are, how they work, and what you should expect when considering this treatment.
This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with everything you need to know about dermal fillers in Singapore, including the types available, costs, benefits, and potential side effects.
By the end, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions about whether dermal fillers are right for you.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, soften creases, enhance facial contours, or augment facial features.
They are medical products specifically developed to help sculpt the face for more definition or restore facial contours to their former youthful appearance.
As we age, our skin naturally loses volume due to bone resorption (decrease in bone mass) and reduced collagen and elastin production. This, combined with factors like exposure to UV rays, gravity, and loss of skin moisture, results in sagging skin and a tired, aged appearance.
Dermal fillers effectively address these concerns by restoring volume and providing structural support to the skin.
Types of Dermal Fillers in Singapore
Dermal fillers can be broadly categorized into two main types:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
HA fillers are the most commonly used type of dermal fillers in Singapore. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in our skin responsible for maintaining hydration and providing lubrication to joints. It also aids in tissue repair and stimulates collagen production, which contributes to skin plumpness.
Popular brands of HA fillers in Singapore include:
- Juvederm: A versatile line of fillers with different formulations for specific facial areas
- Restylane: Known for natural-looking results and varied formulations
- Belotero: Designed to integrate well with the skin tissue
Each brand contains a line of different dermal fillers, which are differentiated based on the firmness and viscosity (thickness and stickiness) of the gel. The choice between a firmer or softer dermal filler depends on the treatment area, skin condition, and desired result.
Softer fillers (suitable for areas with looser skin):
- Juvederm Volbella
- Belotero Soft
- Restylane
Firmer fillers (better for providing structure and sculpting):
- Juvederm Voluma
- Belotero Intense
- Restylane Lyft
- Radiesse
Non-HA or Collagen-Stimulating Fillers
These collagen-stimulating fillers use ingredients that stimulate the body’s natural collagen production for longer-lasting effects. They’re also called bio-stimulating fillers because they contain synthetically produced compounds that, when injected, not only volumize the area but also stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen, resulting in natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Examples include:
- Radiesse: Contains calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
- Sculptra: Contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
- Ellanse: Contains polycaprolactone (PCL)
Another non-HA filler is Algeness, which uses natural and biodegradable compounds made from purified agarose gel. It’s biocompatible with the body and non-allergenic, appealing to patients who prefer fillers made with natural ingredients.
What Do Dermal Fillers Do?
Anti-Aging Benefits
Dermal fillers are effective in treating age-related sagginess and wrinkles caused by lax skin and facial volume loss. They restore volume to the face, addressing issues such as:
- Cheek hollowing
- Under-eye hollows
- Jawline definition loss
- Smile lines (nasolabial folds)
- Marionette lines (lines from the corners of the mouth to the chin)
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to HIFU Treatment in Singapore
Facial Shaping
Beyond anti-aging, dermal fillers can sculpt your face to give more definition. The “3D projection” technique—sculpting and enhancing facial features using a combination of filler techniques—is particularly effective for creating a sculpted V-shaped look.
Areas that can be enhanced with dermal fillers include:
- Forehead
- Temple area
- Tear troughs (under-eye area)
- Nose (non-surgical rhinoplasty)
- Cheeks/Mid-face
- Lips
- Chin
- Jawline
How Do Doctors Determine Dermal Filler Prices in Singapore?
The cost of dermal fillers in Singapore varies based on several factors. Clinics may price their treatments either on a per-syringe basis or a per-area basis (e.g., nose, chin).
Factors Affecting Dermal Filler Costs
- Type of filler: Different brands and formulations have different price points
- Area being treated: Some areas require more product or specialized techniques
- Doctor’s expertise: More experienced practitioners may charge premium rates
- Clinic location: Clinics in prime areas may have higher overhead costs
Price Range for HA Dermal Fillers in Singapore
Here’s an approximate price guide for HA fillers in Singapore (including GST):
Juvederm:
- Juvederm Volbella (Lips, tear trough, undereye): $820
- Juvederm Volift (Mid-face, nasolabial lines, marionette lines, forehead, temples): $830
- Juvederm Voluma (Mid-face and cheeks): $850
- Juvederm Volux (Chin, jawline, nose): $890
Restylane:
- Restylane (Lips, tear trough, undereye, forehead, temples): $760
- Restylane Lyft (Mid-face, nasolabial lines, marionette lines): $800
Belotero:
- Belotero Soft (Lips, tear trough, undereye, forehead, temples): $690
- Belotero Balance (Lips, tear trough, undereye, forehead, temples): $720
- Belotero Intense (Mid-face, cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jawline, chin): $790
Price Range for Non-HA Dermal Fillers in Singapore
Radiesse:
- Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) suspended in aqueous gel
- Multiple facial areas (1.5ml syringe): $890
Sculptra:
- Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
- Multiple facial areas (2ml/treatment area): $380
- Note: Requires three sessions over a few months for optimal results and special post-treatment care
Ellanse:
- Polycaprolactone (PCL) suspended in gel carrier
- Multiple facial areas: $990
Algeness:
- Purified agarose gel (polysaccharide)
- Multiple facial areas: $990
Why Clinics Charge Different Prices for Dermal Fillers
Different aesthetic clinics in Singapore price their dermal filler treatments differently. Some charge per syringe, while others charge per area. As a consumer, ensure the clinic is transparent about all costs involved.
Pricing on a per-syringe basis allows clinics to clearly state how many syringes are required during consultation, minimizing the chance of underfilling. If you’re concerned about overfilling (and potentially overpaying), discuss this with your doctor before treatment.
If you prefer clinics that price by area, clarify whether the amount given is sufficient to address your concerns adequately.
What Dosage Is Needed for Different Parts of the Face?
While doctors can estimate the amount of filler needed, requirements vary based on individual anatomy and desired outcomes. In general, one syringe of dermal filler (typically 1ml) is enough to treat one area on both sides of the face.
If more dramatic results are desired or if the face needs more volumizing, additional filler may be necessary. The effect is visible during treatment, allowing for adjustments as needed.
In some cases, combining dermal fillers with other facial rejuvenation treatments like Ultherapy may be recommended for optimal results.
How to Choose the Right Dermal Filler
The choice between HA fillers and collagen-stimulating fillers depends on your preferences and goals:
- HA fillers are ideal for those who want immediate results and precise volumization
- Collagen-stimulating fillers are better for those who don’t mind waiting for results to develop and prefer the concept of natural collagen generation
Both are considered natural in their own way—HA is naturally found in the skin, while bio-stimulating fillers work by encouraging the body’s natural collagen production.
Ultimately, the technique used to apply the filler is often more important than the specific type. Many doctors now use micro-cannulas (blunt, flexible wires inserted under the skin) rather than needles, as they offer advantages like:
- More natural and even filling
- Lower risk of complications including bruising
- Minimized bleeding
- Fewer injection points
Risks and Side Effects of Dermal Fillers
Common side effects of dermal filler treatments include:
- Bruising
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Slight bleeding at injection sites
These reactions are typically temporary and resolve within a week. To minimize bruising, avoid alcohol, aspirin, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications before treatment.
HA fillers work by absorbing water, creating a volumizing effect that takes about one week to stabilize. Generally, no specific treatment is needed for mild swelling—applying firm pressure or an ice pack can help reduce it.
While rare, more serious complications like allergic reactions and vascular issues can occur, highlighting the importance of choosing a qualified, experienced practitioner for your treatment.
Is There Downtime After Dermal Filler Treatment?
Most patients experience minimal to no downtime and can return to normal activities shortly after treatment. However, it’s advisable to:
- Avoid applying pressure or massaging the treated area within 24 hours
- Avoid strenuous exercise within 24 hours
- Allow the filler to settle and integrate into tissues
Light washing of the face and makeup application is generally fine after treatment.
What to Expect During a Dermal Filler Treatment
A typical dermal filler procedure includes:
- Cleansing of the face and application of numbing cream (left on for about 15 minutes)
- Cleaning of the treatment area with an alcohol wipe
- Insertion of the micro-cannula or needle and injection of the filler
- Molding of the filler by the doctor and application of pressure to minimize swelling/bruising
- Application of antiseptic to the injection point
The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of areas treated.
Preparing for Dermal Filler Treatment
To prepare for your procedure:
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (like ibuprofen, aspirin, gingko, and ginseng) for one week before treatment
- Avoid alcohol consumption 24 hours before treatment to reduce the risk of bruising
- Inform your doctor of any allergies or medical conditions
Who Is Suitable for Dermal Fillers?
Both men and women experiencing facial volume loss and skin sagging can benefit from dermal fillers. The treatment isn’t limited to those in their 40s or 50s—many people in their 20s and 30s request fillers to enhance features like the nose bridge or chin for better facial projection.
Your doctor may recommend combining dermal fillers with other rejuvenation therapies like Ultherapy, lasers, or botulinum neuromodulators (Botox) for a more natural, comprehensive result.
How Often Should You Have Dermal Filler Treatment?
Most dermal fillers last between one to two years, with some collagen-stimulating fillers lasting even longer. The longevity depends on the type of filler used and the treatment area.
Most patients choose to refresh their treatments when they notice the effects diminishing, which can range from one year to several years after initial treatment.
What If You Don’t Like the Results?
If you’re unhappy with the outcome of an HA filler treatment, the filler can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This allows for reversal of the results, which is a significant advantage of HA fillers over non-HA alternatives.
Hyaluronidase takes just a few hours to break down the hyaluronic acid, allowing your doctor to adjust the results if necessary. However, it’s important to note that hyaluronidase does not work on collagen-stimulating fillers.
How to Find the Best Doctor for Dermal Fillers in Singapore
To find the right practitioner:
- Do thorough research on qualified doctors with experience in dermal fillers
- Approach doctors you feel comfortable with
- Discuss your concerns and goals during the consultation
- Ask questions about products and procedures
- Look for doctors who are transparent about what is aesthetically pleasing and who answer your questions objectively
A good aesthetic doctor will be honest about what can realistically be achieved with fillers and will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns.
Key Takeaways About Dermal Fillers
- The skill of the doctor is paramount: More important than the specific product used
- Always choose qualified practitioners: Never approach unqualified individuals for filler injections
- Natural results are ideal: Good filler results should be imperceptible—friends and family should notice your beautiful features, not the work you’ve had done
- Safety comes first: Treatments should be performed in a clean, sterile environment by experienced doctors
- Individualized approach: The right filler and technique will vary based on your unique anatomy and goals
Conclusion
Dermal fillers offer a versatile solution for both anti-aging and facial enhancement concerns. With proper research and the right practitioner, you can achieve natural, refreshed results that enhance your confidence without looking obviously “done.”
Remember that the goal of a good filler treatment is to leave people commenting on your fresh appearance and confidence, not questioning what procedures you’ve had. By understanding the options available and setting realistic expectations, you can make the best decision for your aesthetic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between dermal fillers and Botox?
Dermal fillers and Botox are different treatments with distinct purposes. Fillers add volume to areas that have thinned due to aging, enhance features, and smooth wrinkles by filling the space beneath them. Botox is a neuromodulator that temporarily relaxes muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles (those formed by facial movements). Often, the two treatments are used together for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Will I look worse if I stop doing fillers?
No, you won’t look worse than before if you stop getting fillers. When fillers naturally dissolve, your face simply returns to its pre-treatment state (though you will have continued to age naturally during that time). The next time you need filler injections after your first treatment is typically at least one year later.
Will fillers make me look fake and unnatural?
When performed by skilled practitioners, fillers should provide natural-looking results. Looking fake or unnatural typically happens when too much filler is used or when it’s placed incorrectly. A good doctor will aim to replace only the volume you’ve lost from aging or enhance features proportionally so that you look refreshed and natural.
Are dermal fillers safe in the long run?
Fillers, particularly hyaluronic acid-based ones, are generally considered safe for long-term use. HA is a naturally occurring substance in the skin, so it’s not harmful to the body. The filler stays at the injection site, integrates with skin tissue, and gradually breaks down over time.
Can fillers be removed if I don’t like the results?
Yes, hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if you’re unhappy with the results. This is one of the advantages of HA fillers over other types. Non-HA or collagen-stimulating fillers cannot be dissolved in the same way and would need to wear off naturally.
How much do dermal fillers cost in Singapore?
The cost of dermal fillers in Singapore typically ranges from $690 to $990 per syringe, depending on the brand and type of filler used. Some treatments may require multiple syringes for optimal results. Many clinics charge by the syringe, while others charge by the treatment area.
Is the dermal filler procedure painful?
Most modern fillers contain lidocaine, an anesthetic that reduces discomfort during the procedure. Additionally, doctors often apply numbing cream before treatment. Most patients report only mild discomfort, primarily from the initial needle entry and the sensation of movement during cannula use.
How long do dermal fillers last?
The longevity of dermal fillers varies by type and treatment area:
- Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last 6-18 months
- Collagen-stimulating fillers can last 1-2+ years
- Areas with more movement (like lips) may metabolize filler faster than less mobile areas
What should I avoid before and after getting fillers?
Before treatment, avoid blood-thinning medications (like aspirin and ibuprofen), supplements with anticoagulant properties (such as ginkgo and ginseng), and alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours.
After treatment, avoid:
- Touching or rubbing the treated area for at least 6 hours
- Strenuous exercise for 24 hours
- Excessive sun exposure
- Alcohol for 24 hours
- Facials or massages for at least one week
Can fillers treat acne scars?
Yes, dermal fillers can be effective for treating certain types of acne scars, particularly depressed or atrophic scars. By adding volume beneath the scar, fillers can raise the depressed area to the level of surrounding skin, creating a smoother appearance. However, not all acne scars respond well to fillers, and a consultation with a qualified doctor is necessary to determine the best treatment approach.