Guide to Injectable Fillers

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Reviewed by the physicians of Columbia’s Plastic Surgery Team, May 2025

Injectable fillers are biocompatible substances that are injected beneath the skin to augment soft tissues, soften facial creases and wrinkles, or improve the appearance of recessed scars without surgery.

  • Also known as dermal fillers, these treatments have recently grown in popularity, with more than 1 million people now choosing this procedure every year.
  • Fillers can be made of naturally occurring substances like hyaluronic acid, synthetic biodegradable materials, or a patient's own fat cells.
  • The treatment only takes a few minutes, and patients can resume normal activity immediately.

What are Injectable Fillers?

Injectable fillers (also known as dermal fillers) are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin to add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. They are a popular non-surgical way to rejuvenate the face.

Why Would Someone Get Injectable Fillers?

Injectable fillers are a great option for people who want to improve their appearance without surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Injectable Fillers?

Injectable fillers may be a good choice for people who would like to:

  • Smooth out prominent facial lines near the nose or mouth
  • Reduce the appearance of wrinkles
  • Restore facial volume due to aging
  • Plump up lips
  • Improve facial symmetry and contours

How Is the Treatment Performed?

Once the treatment area is cleaned, a topical anesthetic may be applied to numb the area. The appropriate amount of filler is then injected under the skin to achieve the desired results. Some fillers also include a mild anesthetic to help minimize pain or discomfort during and after the injections.

What Are the Risks?

Injectable fillers are very safe, and many types of filler are easily reversible. But there can be side effects, including:

  • Swelling, bruising, or redness
  • Allergic reactions
  • Itching
  • Bleeding at the injection site
  • Uneven appearance or lumps

In rare cases, side effects can include:

  • Filler migration
  • Vascular issues
  • Skin death (necrosis)

How Do Patients Prepare For the Procedure?

No special care is required. Sunscreen should be used before and after treatments to minimize sun-related damage.

What Type of Anesthesia is Used?

No anesthesia is required, although some surgeons may use local anesthetic to minimize the discomfort of the injection.

What Is Recovery Like?

Most activities can be resumed immediately, but strenuous activity should be avoided for 24-48 hours. Temporary side effects may include:

  • Mild swelling or bruising
  • Temporary numbness
  • Redness
  • "Over-filled" appearance to treated areas

Topical cool compresses or ice may alleviate some of the symptoms.

How Long Until Results are Visible?

Results should be visible immediately; it will take up to two weeks for all swelling to subside and final results to be visible. 

How Long Will Results Last?

Depending on the filler used, results can last from several months to several years.

Will Insurance Cover the Procedure?

Injectable fillers are considered a cosmetic procedure and are typically not covered by insurance.

Next Steps

If you’d like to learn more about injectable fillers or other cosmetic procedures, our team at Columbia is here to help. Call us at (212) 305-3103 or request an appointment online. We accept a number of insurance plans, and our team can help confirm your coverage.

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This content has been created by Columbia’s Health Guide Team. Learn more about our efforts to bring you the clearest, most accurate, and most human health resources available.