dr batul patel

MEDICALLY REVIEWED BY
Dr. Batul Patel (Dermatologist)
Medical Director – The Bombay Skin Clinic
Dr. Batul Patel is an award winning certified dermatologist, honoured as the “Dermatologist of the Year 2023” at the national level by The Economic Times.  View profile

What Are Dermal Fillers | Benefits of Dermal Fillers | Who Is a Good Candidate | Safety & Results Timeline | Price

Dermal fillers are a non-surgical way to soften lines, restore facial volume and enhance features like the lips, cheeks and jawline. In our Mumbai clinics, dermal fillers are always planned and injected by dermatologists, with a focus on subtle, balanced results that work with your natural face shape rather than changing it completely.[1-3]

This guide explains how dermal fillers work, who they are suitable for, what to expect from a session at The Bombay Skin Clinic, safety considerations, recovery, indicative pricing in Mumbai, and how to plan your consultation.

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-like injectable products placed under the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines or gently contour areas like the cheeks, lips, chin and jawline. The most commonly used fillers in modern dermatology practice are hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, a type of soft tissue filler that can attract water and give a hydrated, structured appearance to the treated area.[1-3]

International guidelines and dermatology associations describe dermal fillers as minimally invasive office procedures that can be customised for early, moderate or more advanced signs of ageing, as well as for contouring concerns in younger patients.[1-4]

How are dermal fillers different from other anti-ageing treatments?

Dermal fillers are different from many other anti-ageing treatments because they work by physically replacing or adding volume, rather than tightening muscles or resurfacing the skin.

  • Botulinum toxin (Botox) relaxes specific muscles to soften expression lines; fillers add volume or support in deeper layers.
  • Lasers, peels and microneedling work on the skin surface and collagen; fillers work mainly under the skin to lift or shape.
  • Skin boosters and mesotherapy focus on hydration and glow in very superficial layers; fillers provide more structural support.[1-3]

Key benefits of dermal fillers for the face and lips

Dermal fillers in Mumbai are chosen both by patients who want to look fresher and by those who want subtle contouring of features like the lips, cheeks and jawline. When used carefully, fillers can offer several benefits in one session.[1-3]

Anti-ageing benefits

  • Soften deeper lines such as nasolabial folds (smile lines) and marionette lines around the mouth.
  • Restore gentle fullness to areas like the mid-face, where fat pads and bone support naturally reduce with age.
  • Support corners of the mouth and chin area, which may start to look downturned or heavy over time.
  • Improve the appearance of certain acne or injury-related depressions, where appropriate.[2,4]

Contouring benefits

  • Define the cheekbones in a way that balances the forehead, nose and jaw.
  • Sharpen or straighten the jawline to reduce the look of jowls in suitable candidates.
  • Refine chin projection and shape for better facial profile harmony.
  • In selected cases, support the lower face so it appears less saggy and more structured.[1,4]

Lip enhancement and under-eye rejuvenation

  • Hydrate and gently plump lips while maintaining a natural proportion between upper and lower lip.
  • Define the lip border and soften fine lines around the mouth.
  • Improve the look of under-eye hollows and shadows in suitable patients, helping the face appear less tired.[2-4]

All of these goals are discussed in detail during your consultation so that the treatment plan matches your face, age, lifestyle and comfort level.

Concerns we commonly treat with dermal fillers

At The Bombay Skin Clinic, our dermatologists use dermal fillers as part of personalised treatment plans for a range of age-related and aesthetic concerns in Indian skin types.[1,4]

Smile lines, nasolabial folds and marionette lines

Dermal fillers can be used to soften deeper folds that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth and from the mouth down to the chin. Rather than simply “filling the line”, we often place fillers in nearby support areas such as the mid-face to achieve a more natural, lifted appearance.

Sunken cheeks and mid-face volume loss

With age, cheek fat pads descend and bone support reduces, leading to a flatter or more tired mid-face. Carefully placed cheek fillers can restore gentle fullness and highlight the cheekbones without creating an artificial, overdone look. The aim is to bring back lost support, not to enlarge the face.

Under-eye hollows and tired-looking eyes

In suitable patients, under-eye (tear trough) fillers can reduce the appearance of hollows and shadows that make the face look tired. The decision to use fillers here depends on factors like skin thickness, pigmentation, fluid retention and sinus or eye issues, which your dermatologist will assess in detail.[2,4]

Thin or asymmetrical lips

Dermal fillers can be used to improve lip shape, symmetry and hydration. Most patients in Mumbai request a natural finish rather than very dramatic volume. A small amount of filler is often enough to define the lip border, balance left and right sides and give a healthy, moisturised look.

Jawline and chin definition

Jawline and chin fillers can help refine the lower face, especially in patients who feel their jaw is not well defined in photographs, or who notice early jowling. Treatment is always planned with consideration of your neck, profile and bite, and may be combined with other tightening treatments over time.

Are you a good candidate for dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers can be suitable for adults of different ages and genders when used with a clear plan and realistic goals. Your first consultation at our Kemps Corner, Bandra, Andheri West or Chembur branch focuses on understanding whether fillers are appropriate for you at this stage of your skin journey.

When dermal fillers can be a suitable option

  • You are generally healthy and above 18 years of age.
  • You notice volume loss, deeper lines or hollows that make you look tired, angry or sad even when you are not.
  • You want to enhance specific features (lips, cheeks, chin, jawline) in a controlled, non-surgical way.
  • You prefer a gradual, doctor-led approach to facial rejuvenation rather than abrupt change.
  • You understand that results are temporary and will need maintenance over time.[1-4]

When dermal fillers may not be suitable or should be delayed

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding, where most experts recommend deferring elective fillers as a precaution.[2,5]
  • Active skin infections, acne flares, cold sores or open wounds in the planned treatment area.
  • Uncontrolled medical conditions (for example, certain autoimmune diseases, bleeding disorders) or recent major surgery, where your doctor advises caution.[4,6]
  • Known allergy to any component of the filler product.
  • Unrealistic expectations, pressure to look like someone else, or desire for very dramatic change in a single sitting.

If dermal fillers are not ideal for you right now, your dermatologist will recommend safer or more suitable options such as topical skincare, lasers, peels, radiofrequency or lifestyle modifications.

How dermal fillers work?

Most fillers used today in dermatology are based on hyaluronic acid, a sugar molecule that naturally exists in the skin and helps it retain water. When placed carefully under the skin, these gels can support tissues that have lost volume or definition.[1-3]

Hyaluronic acid and other commonly used filler types

  • Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are the most common; they come in different consistencies for different areas of the face.[1-3]
  • Some fillers are designed to give structure (for example, jawline, chin), while softer gels are used for mobile areas like lips or under the eyes.
  • Other filler families (such as calcium hydroxylapatite or poly-L-lactic acid) are sometimes used as collagen stimulators; in our practice, we prefer to individualise these after assessing your skin, age and medical history.[1,4]

HA fillers have an additional advantage: if needed, a medication called hyaluronidase can help dissolve them, which adds a layer of safety for managing certain complications or adjusting outcomes.[3-5]

How fillers restore volume and structure without surgery

Dermal fillers are injected through very fine needles or blunt-tipped cannulas into specific layers of the skin or just above the bone. By placing small amounts in the right structural points, your dermatologist can:

  • Replace lost fat and support in areas like the cheeks.
  • Lift shadows and soften lines by gently elevating the overlying skin.
  • Refine contours, for example at the chin or jawline, by adding projection in key zones.

Because the procedure does not involve incisions or stitches, it is classified as non-surgical. However, it remains a medical procedure that requires knowledge of facial anatomy, product selection and complication management.[1,4,6]

Your dermal filler session at The Bombay Skin Clinic

Every dermal filler treatment in our Mumbai clinics is dermatologist-led and follows a standard protocol for assessment, consent, injection and review. The aim is to keep you comfortable and fully informed at each step.

Step-by-step treatment journey

  • Consultation: Detailed discussion of your concerns, medical history, current medicines and previous procedures.
  • Assessment: Clinical examination, facial analysis and identification of areas where fillers may or may not help.
  • Planning: Explanation of suitable options, approximate number of syringes, expected timelines and indicative cost.
  • Consent: Written informed consent, including discussion of common and rare risks, is taken in line with dermatology guidelines.[4]
  • Treatment: Fillers are injected using fine needles or cannulas under strict aseptic technique.
  • Post-care: Immediate aftercare instructions are given before you leave the clinic.
  • Review: A follow-up visit may be planned after 1–2 weeks to assess settling and discuss any refinements.

Comfort and pain control: numbing cream, cannula techniques

Most patients describe dermal fillers as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. To keep you at ease, we typically use:

  • Topical numbing cream before the procedure for sensitive areas such as lips.
  • Fillers that already contain local anaesthetic, which reduces discomfort as the treatment progresses.[2,4]
  • Blunt-tipped cannulas in suitable areas, which may reduce bruising and the number of entry points.
  • Gentle technique and clear communication so you know what to expect at each step.

How long a dermal filler appointment usually takes

Most filler sessions, including numbing time, take around 45–60 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated. Simpler, single-area treatments may be quicker, while more advanced full-face balancing may require more time for careful planning and injection.

How many syringes or sessions you may need

The total amount of filler needed depends on your age, the areas being treated, and whether you have had fillers before. Some patients may need only 1 ml for lips, while structural mid-face or jawline work may require multiple syringes over staged sessions for a natural outcome.

Safety, side effects and contraindications

Dermal fillers are widely used across the world and, when performed by trained dermatologists with approved products, have a generally favourable safety profile.[1-4,6-8] However, they are not risk-free. Understanding possible side effects is an important part of your decision.

Common, usually short-term side effects

Most patients experience some temporary effects at the injection sites, which usually settle within a few days to two weeks.[2,6]

  • Mild redness, swelling or tenderness.
  • Bruising, especially in areas with many small blood vessels.
  • Temporary lumpiness or asymmetry while the product settles.
  • Feeling of heaviness or tightness in the treated area.

Results: what to realistically expect and when

Most patients like dermal fillers because certain changes are visible quickly, yet final results evolve over a few days as swelling settles. Your overall plan will be designed to keep your face expressive, in proportion and appropriate for your age and personality.

When you start seeing changes after dermal fillers

  • With most hyaluronic acid fillers, you can see a visible change immediately after injection because the gel is placed under the skin.[2,3]
  • Swelling, minor asymmetries and bruising can temporarily alter the look in the first week.
  • We usually review patients after 1–2 weeks, once tissues have had time to settle.

How long dermal fillers typically last

The longevity of dermal fillers depends on the product used, the area treated, your metabolism and lifestyle factors.[1-4]

  • Softer fillers used in lips and under-eyes often last around 6–12 months.
  • Structural fillers used in cheeks or jawline may last 12–18 months or sometimes longer, depending on the formulation.
  • Over time, the body gradually breaks down the filler, and the area slowly returns closer to its pre-treatment state.

Your dermatologist will discuss realistic ranges for the specific products and areas planned for you.

Dermal fillers vs Botox, skin boosters and threads

Dermal fillers are often discussed along with other non-surgical procedures such as Botox, skin boosters, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and threads. Each has a specific role, and the right choice depends on whether the main concern is movement, volume, texture or lift.[1-4]

When we recommend dermal fillers over Botox

  • When volume loss, hollowness or reduced support is the main issue.
  • When deeper folds or sagging cannot be addressed only by relaxing muscles.
  • When you want contouring of features like the chin or jawline, which Botox alone cannot create.

Botox is generally better for dynamic lines caused by repeated facial expressions, such as frown lines or crow’s feet, while fillers are better for static folds and volume loss.

Dermal fillers vs skin boosters vs PRP for volume and glow

  • Skin boosters and mesotherapy focus on hydration, fine lines and overall glow in the superficial skin layers.
  • PRP uses your own blood components to support certain aspects of skin quality and hair; it is not a volumising filler.
  • Dermal fillers provide more visible, structural volume and contour and are not primarily designed for skin texture.

In many treatment journeys, we start with structural support using fillers where needed, and then layer surface treatments for texture, tone and glow.

Dermal fillers vs threads for lifting and contouring

  • Threads aim to mechanically lift and reposition tissue, and may be chosen in patients with more laxity but limited volume loss.
  • Fillers are more suitable where loss of volume and support is the main concern.
  • In some cases, a combination of threads, fillers and skin tightening may be suggested, staged over time.

When we suggest lasers, RF, HIFU or skincare instead of / along with fillers

  • When skin texture, pores, pigmentation or acne scars are the main issues, resurfacing treatments or peels may be more appropriate.
  • When skin laxity is significant, energy-based tightening treatments such as radiofrequency or high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) may be considered.
  • When lifestyle factors, sun exposure or skincare habits are contributing strongly, a structured skincare plan may be more important initially.

Combination treatment plans for natural-looking results

In our Mumbai practice, the most natural results often come from a combination of small, well-timed treatments rather than a single aggressive procedure. Your dermatologist will discuss whether fillers should be your first step or part of a broader plan that may include Botox, lasers, radiofrequency, peels and skincare.

Indicative dermal filler pricing in Mumbai

Dermal filler costs in Mumbai vary depending on the clinic, injector, brand and the number of syringes required. At The Bombay Skin Clinic, Dermal Fillers generally start from around Rs.20,000 per syringe, with exact pricing shared after examination and treatment planning.

Why choose The Bombay Skin Clinic for dermal fillers in Mumbai?

The Bombay Skin Clinic is a dermatologist-led aesthetic centre with branches spread across Mumbai. Our approach to dermal fillers is conservative, evidence-based and tailored for Indian skin and lifestyle.

Dermatologist-led, award-winning team and experience

All dermal fillers at our clinics are performed by dermatologists with focused training in aesthetic medicine, facial anatomy and injectables. Treatment plans are created and supervised by our medical director, ensuring consistency in protocols across branches.

Use of approved brands, product traceability and storage

We use fillers from established global brands that carry recognised approvals and safety data. Each syringe is recorded against your file so that product name, batch and expiry are documented. Fillers are stored and handled according to manufacturer recommendations and clinic protocols.[1,4,6]

Advanced injection and cannula techniques for safer results

Our dermatologists keep up with evolving guidelines on safe injection zones, cannula use and complication management.[3,7,8] Techniques are adapted for different areas of the face, with an emphasis on anatomical safety and natural results.

Hygiene and sterilisation protocols across all branches

Each clinic follows strict infection-control protocols, including single-use needles and cannulas, surface disinfection and hand hygiene. Treatment rooms are designed to support safe injectable practice, and consent and documentation processes are standardised.[4,6]

Frequently asked questions about dermal fillers

Are dermal fillers safe for Indian skin types?

Dermal fillers are used worldwide in diverse skin types, including Indian skin. At The Bombay Skin Clinic, we choose filler types and techniques keeping in mind pigmentation tendencies, scar risk and lifestyle factors that are common in Indian patients.

How painful are dermal filler injections?

Most patients describe filler injections as mildly uncomfortable. We use numbing cream, fillers that contain local anaesthetic and gentle technique to keep you as comfortable as possible.[2,4] Sensitive areas like the lips can feel more intense, but the discomfort is usually brief and settles quickly after the procedure.

What if I do not like the result – can it be adjusted?

Small adjustments are sometimes possible at review visits using additional filler or, in the case of hyaluronic acid fillers, using hyaluronidase to reduce or redistribute some product if appropriate.[3-5] However, every adjustment is a medical decision and is made only after clinical assessment of your face, tissues and expectations.

Can I do dermal fillers before a wedding or event?

Many patients choose dermal fillers before important events. We usually advise completing filler treatments at least 2–3 weeks before the date so that any swelling or bruising has settled and there is time for minor refinements if needed.

References

  1. Vedamurthy M. Standard guidelines for the use of dermal fillers. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. Available from: https://ijdvl.com/standard-guidelines-for-the-use-of-dermal-fillers/
  2. American Academy of Dermatology. Fillers: Overview. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/wrinkles/fillers-overviewhttps://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/wrinkles/fillers-overview
  3. Rohrich RJ, Monheit G, Nguyen AT, Brown SA, Fagien S. Soft-tissue filler complications: the important role of biofilms. Plast Reconstr Surg. Practical Approach and Safety of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6635180/
  4. Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL). Fillers – patient information. Available from: https://public.iadvl.org/fillers
  5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Dermal Fillers (Soft Tissue Fillers). Available from: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/aesthetic-cosmetic-devices/dermal-fillers-soft-tissue-fillers
  6. Jones DH, Carruthers J, Fitzgerald R, et al. Preventing and treating adverse events of injectable fillers: evidence-based recommendations from the ASDS task force. Dermatol Surg. Available from: https://www.asds.net/Portals/0/PDF/asdsa/Preventing%20and%20Treating%20Adverse%20Events%20of%20Injectable%20Fillers%20Evidence-Based%20Recs%20From%20ASDS%20Task%20Force%20Article.pdf
  7. Abduljabbar MH, Basendwh MA. Complications of hyaluronic acid fillers and their management. J Dermatolog Treat. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352241016000050
  8. Murray G, Walker L, El Shafei A, et al. Guideline for the management of hyaluronic acid filler-induced vascular occlusion. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8211329/
  9. The Aesthetica. Dermal fillers cost in India: price breakdown and factors. Available from: https://theaesthetica.com/dermal-fillers-cost-in-india-price-breakdown-factors/
  10. Hong GW, Tay TKY, Choong AMTL, et al. Adverse effects associated with dermal filler treatments: a systematic review. Diagnostics (Basel). 2024;14(14):1555. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/14/14/1555

 

dr batul patel

MEDICALLY REVIEWED BY
Dr. Batul Patel (Dermatologist)
Medical Director – The Bombay Skin Clinic
Dr. Batul Patel is an award winning certified dermatologist, honoured as the “Dermatologist of the Year 2023” at the national level by The Economic Times.  View profile