5 Frequently Asked Questions Before Getting Dermal Fillers, Answered by Mediqueen Clinic Physicians

1. What Are Dermal Fillers? Are They Safe?

Dermal fillers (Fillers) are Hyaluronic Acid (HA) volume restorers, a compound structurally similar to collagen naturally present in the human body. Their primary function is to retain water and hydrate the skin. As age advances, the body's natural HA levels decrease, leading to volume loss, reduced elasticity, and the formation of deep wrinkles. HA filler injections introduce nature-identical substances back into skin layers to replace lost volume, support skin structures, diminish deep creases, and adjust facial proportions toward a balanced outcome.

The safety of filler injections depends on three main factors: 1) The product itself, which must be authentic HA filler approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and verifiable; 2) A standardized, clean, and sterile clinical setting; and 3) The operating physician, which is a critical factor. Physicians must possess deep knowledge of facial anatomy to place injections precisely and avoid key blood vessels. At Mediqueen Clinic, safety is prioritized. The medical team (License No. 37670) thoroughly evaluates skin condition and facial structure prior to every procedure. Although severe side effects are very rare, receiving injections from an experienced physician in a reliable medical facility helps minimize potential risks.

2. Are Filler Injections Painful? Is Recovery Time Required?

Discomfort during filler injections is a primary concern for patients. Generally, the pain level is mild and manageable. Prior to injection, topical anesthetic cream is applied for about 30 to 45 minutes to numb the skin surface. Furthermore, many current filler formulations contain built-in anesthetic (Lidocaine), which significantly reduces discomfort during product delivery. Combined with gentle injection techniques from skilled physicians, patients can feel much more comfortable throughout the procedure.

Following filler injections, patients can resume daily activities without needing downtime. However, mild swelling, redness, or minor bruising may occur around injection sites, which are normal skin reactions that gradually resolve within 3 to 7 days. During the first 24 to 48 hours, physicians recommend avoiding heavy touching, massaging, or pressing on the treated area, as well as refraining from strenuous exercise, alcohol consumption, and high-heat exposure such as saunas or sunbathing, which may exacerbate swelling—especially in Pattaya's warm and humid climate. Strictly following medical advice helps results settle quickly and smoothly.

3. How Long Do Fillers Last, and How Are They Broken Down?

The duration of results following HA filler injections is non-permanent, lasting on average about 6 to 24 months. Several factors influence longevity, including the specific physical properties of each filler line (such as cross-linking technology), the injection zone (frequently moved areas like the lips may absorb fillers faster than less active areas like the chin), and individual metabolic rates.

An advantage of HA fillers is their ability to dissolve naturally over time. The human body produces an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which gradually breaks down filler molecules, causing added volume to decrease slowly until returning to pre-treatment states. This process serves as a key safety mechanism. Should results be unsatisfactory or complications arise, physicians can inject purified hyaluronidase enzyme to dissolve the filler rapidly, a procedure that must be performed strictly by qualified medical professionals.

4. Which Filler Brand and Model Should Be Chosen?

Currently, various FDA-approved HA filler brands and lines are available, each designed with distinct physical properties (rheology)—such as firmness (G-prime), elasticity, and viscosity—suited for specific areas of the face. No single filler brand or model is universal for all concerns and anatomical regions.

For instance, to support bony structures like the chin or jawline, physicians select firm fillers capable of maintaining structural shape. Conversely, for delicate areas requiring soft and natural integration, such as under the eyes or lips, physicians choose soft, smooth fillers that merge easily with tissue. Therefore, a more pertinent question than 'which brand is top' is 'which filler type fits our specific concern.' Medical professionals at Mediqueen Clinic evaluate facial structure, skin quality, and patient goals to plan treatment and select appropriate filler types tailored to each individual. Results vary by individual.

5. How Do Dermal Fillers Differ from Botulinum Toxin?

Many patients confuse dermal fillers with botulinum toxin (such as Botox or Dysport). Although both are injectable aesthetic treatments, their mechanisms of action and treatment objectives differ fundamentally. Dermal fillers serve 'to fill,' adding volume to areas affected by atrophy or deep creases, such as nasolabial folds, under-eye hollows, temples, or for contouring the chin and lips.

In contrast, botulinum toxin serves 'to relax' muscles by temporarily inhibiting muscle action in injected regions. As targeted muscles relax, expression-induced dynamic wrinkles—such as crow's feet, glabellar lines, or forehead creases—appear smoother. It is also used to reduce jaw muscle mass for facial slimming.

In many instances, physicians may recommend combining dermal fillers and botulinum toxin for comprehensive facial care and rejuvenation—for example, utilizing toxin to reduce forehead wrinkles while applying fillers to restore volume in hollow temples. Tailored treatment planning relies on evaluation by experienced physicians.