The Complete Guide to Dermal Fillers — What You Need to Know

Last updated: 5 March 2026

Dermal fillers have become one of the most sought-after aesthetic treatments in the UK, offering a non-surgical solution to restore volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. Whether you are considering fillers for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable substances designed to add volume beneath the skin’s surface. The most commonly used fillers are based on hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that attracts and retains moisture. Popular brands include Juvederm, Restylane, and Teosyal. Other types include calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra), and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), each suited to different treatment goals and longevity requirements.

Areas Commonly Treated

Dermal fillers are remarkably versatile and can address a wide range of concerns across the face and body. Common treatment areas include:

• Lips — Adding volume, definition, and symmetry
• Cheeks — Restoring midface volume lost through ageing
• Nasolabial folds — Softening the lines running from the nose to the mouth
• Marionette lines — Reducing the downturned appearance around the mouth
• Jawline — Creating definition and contour
• Tear troughs — Minimising the hollow, tired appearance under the eyes
• Temples — Replacing volume loss that contributes to a gaunt look
• Hands — Rejuvenating ageing hands by restoring lost volume

How Long Do Fillers Last?

The longevity of dermal fillers depends on the type of product used, the treatment area, your metabolism, and lifestyle factors. As a general guide, hyaluronic acid fillers in the lips typically last 6 to 12 months, whilst cheek and jawline fillers can last 12 to 18 months. Deeper, more robust fillers such as Radiesse may last up to 18 months, and collagen stimulators like Sculptra can produce results lasting two years or more, as they encourage the body’s own collagen production.

Cost Ranges in the UK

Pricing for dermal fillers in the UK varies considerably depending on the clinic’s location, the practitioner’s experience, and the amount of product required. As a rough guide:

• Lip fillers: £200–£400 per syringe
• Cheek fillers: £300–£600 per syringe
• Jawline contouring: £350–£700 per syringe
• Tear trough fillers: £300–£500 per syringe
• Full face rejuvenation: £1,000–£3,000 (multiple syringes)

Always prioritise practitioner qualifications and clinic reputation over price. Cheaper treatments may indicate lower-quality products or less experienced injectors, which can lead to complications.

What to Expect During Treatment

A dermal filler appointment typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, including a thorough consultation. Most modern fillers contain lidocaine, a local anaesthetic, to minimise discomfort during injection. Your practitioner will cleanse the treatment area, mark injection points, and use a fine needle or cannula to place the filler precisely. You may experience mild swelling, redness, or bruising afterwards, which generally subsides within a few days. Results are visible immediately, though the final outcome is best assessed after two weeks once any swelling has settled.

Safety and Choosing a Qualified Practitioner

Whilst dermal fillers are generally considered safe when administered by trained professionals, it is essential to choose a qualified practitioner. Look for medical professionals — doctors, dentists, or prescribing nurses — who hold appropriate qualifications in aesthetic medicine. Ensure the clinic is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and that your practitioner carries adequate insurance. A reputable clinic will always conduct a detailed consultation, discuss potential risks, and obtain informed consent before proceeding with treatment.