Dermal Filler for Wrinkles: A Complete, Honest Patient Guide

Fine lines that used to appear only when you laughed can start hanging around long after the joke has finished. Dermal fillers offer a quick, injectable way to smooth those static creases by replacing the volume your skin has gradually given up. A tiny amount of gel—usually based on hyaluronic acid or other biocompatible materials—is placed beneath the wrinkle, lifting the overlying skin and restoring a softer contour almost instantly.

This honest patient guide sets out everything you actually need to know before letting a needle near your face. You will find plain-English explanations of every filler type sold in UK clinics, an evidence-based breakdown of benefits and risks, real-world price brackets, and tips for spotting a properly qualified practitioner. We also cover what results to expect, how long they last, and when an alternative such as Botox or a skin booster might suit you better. Fillers can be transformative, but they are never one-size-fits-all—so let’s unpack the nuances together. You’ll finish confident, informed, and ready for next steps.

What Dermal Fillers Do & How They Smooth Wrinkles

Imagine a deflated balloon: its surface puckers because the air inside has escaped. Ageing skin behaves much the same. Collagen, elastin and sub-cutaneous fat shrink, leaving empty space that shows up as folds or hollows. Dermal fillers simply occupy that space. By adding carefully measured gel beneath the crease they either:

• Physically lift the skin so the indentation is no longer visible

• (With certain formulas) kick-start your own fibroblasts to lay new collagen, giving longer-term firmness

Because the treatment acts on volume, it is most effective for static wrinkles – the lines you see even when your face is at rest. Dynamic wrinkles, created by muscle movement (think crow’s-feet when you smile) are better handled with muscle-relaxing injections.

Definition and Quick Science Lesson

A filler is a sterile, injectable gel. Common bases include hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Manufacturers tweak viscosity and cross-linking – essentially how tightly the sugar or mineral particles are bound together – to produce softer or firmer products for different depths. All reputable brands are CE-marked and overseen by the MHRA in the UK and the FDA in the US.

Myth-buster: used in correct amounts, fillers do not stretch skin forever; once the gel is metabolised the tissue gradually reverts to its previous state.

Fillers vs Botox and Other Injectables

Feature	Dermal filler	Botulinum toxin (e.g. Botox)	Skin booster (e.g. Profhilo)
Action	Adds volume / may stimulate collagen	Relaxes muscle	Deep hydrates, improves texture
Best for	Static lines, hollows	Dynamic expression lines	Crepey skin, fine lines
Onset	Immediate	3–7 days	2–4 weeks
Longevity	6–24 m (type-dependent)	3–4 m	~6 m
Downtime	Minimal	Minimal	Minimal

Facial Areas Commonly Treated for Wrinkles

• Nasolabial folds: 1–2 ml

• Marionette lines: 0.8–1.5 ml

• Smokers’ lines (upper lip): 0.5 ml

• Tear troughs: 0.5–1 ml

• Cheeks and mid-face: 1–3 ml per side

• Temples: 1–2 ml

• Ageing hands: 1–2 ml per hand

These volumes are averages; your clinician will tailor the dose to your anatomy and the specific dermal filler for wrinkles chosen.

Navigating Filler Materials: Which Type for Which Line?

Walk into any clinic and you will hear brand names thrown around as though everyone already knows the differences. In reality, each gel has its own “personality” in terms of thickness, lift capacity, collagen kick and staying power. Matching the right substance to the right wrinkle is therefore half the artistry of facial aesthetics—and a huge part of why results (and budgets) vary. Below is the low-down on the four main categories you will encounter when considering a dermal filler for wrinkles.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (e.g. Juvéderm, Restylane)

Hyaluronic acid is a sugar our body makes naturally to hold water. Cross-linked into a gel, it
acts like a sponge beneath the skin, plumping lines immediately.

• Reversible: an enzyme called hyaluronidase can dissolve mistakes in minutes.

• Longevity: roughly 6–12 months depending on cross-link density and your metabolism.

• Best for: moderate nasolabial folds, lip border lines, tear-trough hollows and first-time patients who value flexibility.

• Feel: soft to medium firmness; integrates well for a natural finish.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse)

Tiny calcium spheres suspended in gel create more structure than HA, while also nudging fibroblasts to form new collagen.

• Longevity: 12–18 months.

• Best for: deeper creases (marionette lines, chin folds), cheek and jawline definition.

• Note: product is not dissolvable; corrections require careful massage or time.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid (Sculptra)

Think of PLLA as fertiliser for collagen rather than instant filler. Multiple micro-injections trigger gradual thickening of the dermis.

• Effect timeline: visible improvement after 6–12 weeks, peaking at 4 months.

• Longevity: up to 2 years once the collagen network has matured.

• Best for: diffuse volume loss, accordion lines on the cheeks and temple hollows.

• Requires: series of 2–3 treatment sessions spaced six weeks apart.

Polymethylmethacrylate Microspheres (Bellafill)

PMMA combines bovine collagen with microscopic acrylic beads that remain indefinitely.

• Longevity: 5 years or more—considered semi-permanent.

• Best for: etched acne scars and selected deep wrinkles when long-term correction is the goal.

• Caveats: limited availability in the UK, allergy skin test needed, difficult to reverse; commit only after thorough consultation.

Collagen-Stimulating vs Volume-Replacing: How to Decide

Factor	HA (volume-replace)	CaHA / PLLA (collagen-stimulate)
Desire for reversibility	Yes	No
Need for rapid results	Immediate	Gradual
Budget per session	Lower	Higher (fewer top-ups)
Skin quality goal	Plump line	Firmer, thicker skin
Suitability for fine lines	Excellent	Better for deeper folds

Still unsure? Most practitioners start with HA to “test-drive” a look, then layer in CaHA or PLLA later for longevity once you are comfortable. The right choice ultimately balances wrinkle depth, desired maintenance schedule and tolerance for commitment.

Are You a Good Candidate? Candidacy, Contra-Indications & Expectations

Fillers are wildly popular, but that doesn’t mean every wrinkle should be injected. Before booking in, run through the checkpoints below so your consultation time is spent refining a plan rather than ruling one out.

Ageing Stage & Skin Quality

Dermal fillers shine once natural fat pads start to shrink—typically mid-30s to late-60s. If your skin still bounces back instantly when pinched, you may gain more from light skincare or Botox. Conversely, very thin, sun-damaged skin may need resurfacing or biostimulators first so the gel has a healthy scaffold to sit on.

Static vs Dynamic Wrinkle Depth

Practitioners grade lines on the Glogau photo-ageing scale (I–IV). Grades II–III static creases respond best to fillers because volume loss is the main culprit. Deep dynamic furrows that fold only with expression are better relaxed with toxin or a combination approach; a filler may otherwise create puffiness rather than smoothness.

Medical Conditions, Allergies & Medications

Skip treatment if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, fighting a cold sore, or have active acne in the target area. Auto-immune disorders, bleeding disorders, and recent isotretinoin use require individual risk assessment. Blood thinners, aspirin, NSAIDs and high-dose fish oils increase bruising; your prescriber will advise whether to pause them safely.

Setting Realistic Expectations

A dermal filler for wrinkles softens shadows—it will not airbrush you. Expect 30–80 % improvement, not a facelift. Results are temporary, maintenance is budget-friendly yet ongoing, and symmetry tweaks may be needed at review. Enter with this mindset and you’re far more likely to leave delighted rather than disappointed.

The Treatment Journey: What Happens Before, During & After Injections

A good result is never just about the syringe. From the first hello to the final check-up, each step is designed to keep you safe, comfortable and happy with your new look. Knowing what will happen — and when — takes the guesswork (and a lot of the nerves) out of the experience.

Consultation & Facial Assessment

Expect a 30- to 45-minute chat in a private clinic room. Your practitioner will:

• Review medical history, allergies and current medication

• Take high-resolution photographs for planning and comparison

• Grade wrinkle depth and skin quality, then discuss realistic goals

• Explain product choices, costs and potential risks before you sign consent

Bring a list of the skincare products and supplements you use; some, such as retinoids or fish oils, may need tweaking pre-treatment.

Preparing for the Appointment

For 48 hours beforehand:

1. Skip alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E and high-dose omega-3 to cut bruising

2. Avoid waxing, chemical peels or strong actives on the target area

3. Stock the freezer with a gel ice pack and plan a quiet evening in

Arrive makeup-free and well-hydrated. If you are needle-shy, ask about topical numbing cream on arrival.

Injection Session Explained

After cleansing and marking injection points, the clinician will numb the skin (topical cream, dental block or lidocaine-containing filler). Using a fine needle or blunt micro-cannula, small amounts of gel are placed precisely into or under the wrinkle. You may feel pressure or a quick sting, but discomfort is usually mild and brief. The whole procedure takes 15–45 minutes, with a mirror check part-way so you stay involved.

Immediate Aftercare & Downtime

• Apply a cool pack for 10 minutes on/off for the first hour

• Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and hot baths for 24 hours

• No make-up for 12 hours; gentle cleansing only

• Sleep slightly elevated to reduce morning puffiness

Mild swelling or tiny lumps often settle within a week; light fingertip massage, if advised, can speed this along.

Follow-Up Visits & Touch-Ups

A review at two weeks lets the practitioner compare before/after photos, smooth any unevenness and plan maintenance. Typical top-ups are:

• HA fillers: every 9–12 months

• CaHA or PLLA: every 18–24 months

Scheduling reviews around big events (weddings, holidays) ensures you look your best when it matters most.

Safety First: Risks, Side Effects, and How to Minimise Them

Dermal fillers are considered low-risk when performed by an experienced medical professional, yet they are not risk-free. Being aware of what is normal, what is not, and how to respond will help you stay calm and protected.

Expected, Mild Reactions

Minor after-effects usually settle within a week and can be managed at home:

• Puffiness or firmness at injection points (24–72 h)

• Pin-point bruises or “track marks” (2–7 d)

• Tenderness or itching as tissue heals

• Tiny palpable lumps that soften with gentle massage

Tips: apply a clean cold pack for ten minutes on the hour, sleep slightly elevated, and consider oral arnica or bromelain if your GP has no objections.

Rare but Serious Complications

Although uncommon, you must recognise the red flags:

• Vascular occlusion: sudden blanching, severe pain, mottled “livedo” pattern; can lead to skin loss

• Visual disturbance: shadow, tunnel vision or blindness within minutes—this is a 999 emergency

• Infection or abscess: increasing redness, heat or pus after day two

• Delayed granulomas or hard nodules: immune reaction weeks to months later

Rapid treatment with hyaluronidase, warm compresses, aspirin and, if needed, antibiotics can avert permanent damage—providing your injector keeps these on site.

Choosing a Qualified Practitioner

Safest hands belong to clinicians regulated by:

• GDC (dentists), GMC (doctors) or NMC (nurses)

• Additional training in aesthetic medicine and complications management

• Independent prescribing rights to source licensed products and emergency drugs

• A CQC-registered clinic with sterile protocols, sharps disposal and clear after-hours contact

Avoid pop-up salons, home parties and bargains that do not list the exact brand or millilitre price.

What to Do if Something Goes Wrong

Contact your clinic immediately—day or night—if pain, colour change or swelling worsens. Photograph the area, keep the filler box sticker, and follow their triage advice. If vision changes occur, dial 999 and head to the nearest A&E while notifying your practitioner so they can meet you with hyaluronidase. Early action is the single biggest factor in a full recovery.

Results, Longevity & Maintenance Planning

A glossy “after” shot on Instagram rarely tells you when that picture was taken or how often the client tops-up. To plan wisely you need realistic timelines—both for the initial wow-moment and the quieter upkeep that follows. Use the guide below as a budgeting and scheduling road-map.

When Will I See Results?

• Hyaluronic acid gels lift the skin immediately; moderate swelling means the true outcome settles at 7–14 days.

• Calcium hydroxylapatite shows 70–80 % of its effect on day one, then keeps firming as new collagen knits over the next six weeks.

• Poly-L-lactic acid delivers only subtle volume at first; expect a gradual reveal between weeks 6 and 12 after each session.

How Long Different Fillers Last

Material	Typical longevity*
HA (lightly cross-linked)	6–9 months
HA (highly cross-linked)	9–12 months
CaHA	12–18 months
PLLA	24 months +
PMMA	5 years +

*Clinical averages; individual metabolism varies.

Factors That Influence Duration

• Metabolic rate: gym-goers and fast metabolisms break filler down sooner.

• Facial movement: areas like the mouth metabolise faster than the temples.

• Lifestyle: smoking, UV exposure and yo-yo dieting shorten longevity.

• Product choice & volume: a sturdier gel, placed deeper, usually lasts longer.

Maintenance Schedule & Cost Over Time

Most patients budget for one full treatment year one, then lighter “micro-top-ups” thereafter:

• Ages 30–45: ~1–2 ml HA annually (≈ £300–£700).

• Ages 45–60: ~2–3 ml mix of HA/CaHA (≈ £600–£1,200).

• 60 +: combination plans every 12–18 months; overall spend often balanced by fewer surgical costs.

Booking reviews every 9–12 months, rather than waiting for lines to re-appear, maintains smoother skin with less product—making your dermal filler for wrinkles a predictable, controllable investment.

UK Pricing Guide: What Dermal Fillers Really Cost

Sticker shock is normal when you first start Googling “dermal filler for wrinkles”. Prices in the UK are quoted per syringe (usually 1 ml) or per vial, and they swing widely between clinics. The figures below reflect reputable, medically led practices outside central London; expect the capital to sit 10–20 % higher.

Typical Price Ranges by Brand and Area

Material / Brand	Usual volume sold	Typical fee (per ml/vial)	Common treatment zones
Hyaluronic Acid – Juvéderm Ultra / Restylane Refyne	1 ml	£250 – £400	Nasolabial folds, lip lines
Hyaluronic Acid – Juvéderm Voluma / Teosyal RHA 4 (high Gʹ)	1 ml	£320 – £450	Cheeks, chin, jawline
Calcium Hydroxylapatite – Radiesse	1.5 ml syringe	£350 – £500	Marionette lines, lower-face lift
Poly-L-Lactic Acid – Sculptra	1 vial (reconstituted)	£450 – £600	Diffuse mid-face or temple hollows
PMMA – Bellafill*	0.8 ml syringe	£700 – £900	Acne scars, deep nasolabial folds

*Bellafill is imported on a named-patient basis and is not stocked by every UK clinic.

Cost Drivers You Should Know

• Practitioner expertise and qualifications

• Clinic overheads (CQC-registered premises, emergency drugs on site)

• Product pedigree—genuine branded filler costs more than grey-market imports

• Number of syringes required; deeper folds demand extra volume

• Follow-up appointments (some clinics include, others charge)

Finance & Payment Options

Most medical aesthetic clinics, including Wigmore Smiles & Aesthetics, offer:

• 0 % interest payment plans spread over 3–12 months

• Bundle discounts when treating multiple areas in one sitting

• Loyalty schemes giving £25–£50 off future syringes

• Card, bank transfer and sometimes Klarna-style “buy now, pay later” systems

Always read the small print—missed payments can attract standard consumer credit fees.

Spotting Red Flags in “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Offers

• Prices under £150 per ml with no brand named

• Treatments performed in homes, hotel rooms, or pop-up events

• No medical history form or written consent

• Practitioner cannot show GDC/GMC/NMC registration

• Cash-only payment or pressure to “decide now”

If a deal feels suspiciously cheap, remember that correcting a botched filler can cost far more than doing it right first time. Quality product, skilled hands, and safe surroundings are what you’re really paying for.

Dermal Fillers vs Other Wrinkle Solutions: Making an Informed Choice

Fillers are brilliant for static folds, but they sit within a wider anti-ageing toolkit. Understanding how the main alternatives work helps you pick a single path—or a clever combination—without wasting money or healing time.

Botox for Dynamic Expression Lines

Botulinum toxin relaxes the tiny muscles that crease skin when you frown or grin. It is injected in minute doses, takes 3–7 days to kick in and lasts about four months. Best for: crow’s-feet, “11” lines between the brows and horizontal forehead grooves. Because it stops movement rather than adding volume, it often complements filler around the mouth or cheeks.

Skin Boosters & Profhilo for Fine Lines and Glow

Skin boosters use runnier hyaluronic acid placed superficially to drench tissue with moisture, improving elasticity rather than lift. Profhilo goes a step further, flooding the dermis with stabilised HA that spreads and triggers collagen over four weeks. Expect subtle smoothing of crepey cheeks or neck, not the structural change a dermal filler for wrinkles delivers.

Chemical Peels, Microneedling & Laser Resurfacing

These are surface-remodelling treatments. By creating controlled micro-injury—chemical, mechanical or light-based—they stimulate fresh collagen and even pigment. They excel at etched “smoker’s” lines, fine crêpe under the eyes and sun damage, but cannot replace lost volume in deeper folds.

Safe Combination Treatments for Maximum Impact

Most mature faces need both movement control and volume. A typical sequence is:

1. Botox first (week 0) to calm dynamic lines.

2. Filler at week 2 once muscles are settled, restoring contour.

3. Skin booster or light laser at week 6 for texture and radiance.

Spacing procedures reduces bruising, lets each result be judged on its own merit and spreads costs sensibly. A qualified practitioner will map out this timeline so treatments work in harmony, not competition.

Patient FAQ: Straightforward Answers to Hot-Button Questions

Wading through forums often clouds, not clarifies. Here are the clinic answers patients want most.

Are Dermal Fillers Worth It for Wrinkles?

Yes—if static folds bother you, filler is one of the fastest, least-invasive fixes. Surveys put satisfaction above 85 %. Allow £300–£700 a year for upkeep and a 30-minute visit, and most people decide the trade-off is worth it.

Which Filler Is Best for Deep Wrinkles?

Thicker, collagen-stimulating products usually outperform soft HA in grooves. Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) gives instant lift plus long-term firming, while poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) excels where volume is missing across a wider area. A HA may still top-coat to perfect the surface.

Will Fillers Ruin My Face Over Time?

Not when used judiciously. Studies show doses neither stretch nor ‘melt’ tissue; some fillers even boost collagen so skin quality improves. Problems arise from repeated over-filling or unregulated products—stick to a qualified injector and regular reviews to keep results healthy.

Can Fillers Look Natural on Mature Skin?

Absolutely. Skilled practitioners respect facial proportions, use micro-cannulas and low-volume passes to blend product seamlessly. Layering 0.5–1 ml at a time, rather than dumping several syringes at once, avoids puffiness and lets mature skin drape naturally over the subtle support beneath.

Key Takeaways & Next Steps

• Dermal filler for wrinkles works best on static lines where volume has vanished, not on expression-driven creases.

• Choosing the correct material (soft HA, firm CaHA, collagen-building PLLA) and injection depth matters more than the brand name.

• Good results hinge on a qualified medical injector, a thorough consultation and realistic expectations—aim to soften, not delete, lines.

• Mild swelling and bruising are normal; serious complications are rare but require rapid medical attention.

• Plan on maintenance every 6–18 months depending on filler type, lifestyle and metabolism; budgeting ahead prevents “all gone” surprises.

Ready to find out exactly what your face needs? A bespoke assessment will map wrinkle depth, skin quality and budget into a clear treatment plan. Wigmore Smiles & Aesthetics offers doctor-led consultations, medical-grade products and flexible 0 % finance so you can refresh safely and sensibly.

Take the first step towards smoother, fresher skin—book your consultation today and bring your questions with you. Your future face will thank you.