What are dermal fillers?
With age, the face gradually loses fat, bone support and collagen. Hollows appear under the eyes and at the temples, folds deepen around the mouth, and the chin and jawline lose definition. Dermal fillers replace or support that missing structure with an injectable gel placed at a specific depth.
Most fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a sugar molecule found naturally in skin. HA fillers give an immediate result and can be dissolved with an enzyme (hyaluronidase) if needed, which makes them the usual first choice for the face. Collagen-stimulating fillers such as Radiesse(calcium hydroxylapatite) add support and encourage the skin to build its own collagen over time, but they cannot be dissolved in the same way.
People usually consider fillers for:
- Hollow or shadowed under-eyes and tired-looking eyes
- Thin or uneven lips, or lips that have lost shape
- A short or receding chin and a softer jawline
- Deep nasolabial folds and marionette lines
- Flat cheeks, temples or forehead
- Depressed acne scars
What changes in your face
HA fillers show a change immediately, but swelling can exaggerate the result for the first few days; the final shape is usually visible after about 2 weeks. Results typically last from around 6 months in mobile areas such as the lips to 12–24 months in deeper areas. For delicate under-eye work, see under-eye fillers.
How a filler visit works
- Facial analysis The doctor looks at proportions, bone structure and volume loss, and agrees a plan and volume with you.
- Numbing & marking Numbing cream for about 20–30 minutes; most HA fillers also contain lidocaine.
- Injection 15–45 minutes with a needle or blunt cannula, checking symmetry as we go.
- Review & aftercare Cold compress, aftercare advice, and a review within 4 weeks for included areas.
Visiting Seoul? Have fillers early in your trip so swelling and any bruising can settle and the doctor can check you before you leave. Avoid flying within 24 hours if possible, and do not book a facial massage or lifting device straight after without asking us first.
Downtime, side effects and aftercare
Fillers are among the most common aesthetic procedures, but they carry real medical risks, which is why they should only be injected by a doctor who knows facial anatomy.
- Common: swelling, tenderness, redness and bruising for 2–7 days; small lumps that soften as the filler settles.
- Less common: asymmetry, visible lumps, a bluish tint (Tyndall effect) when HA is placed too superficially under the eyes, or delayed swelling weeks later.
- Rare but serious: infection, nodules, or vascular occlusion — filler blocking a blood vessel — which can damage skin and, very rarely, affect vision. Severe pain, skin blanching or mottling, or vision changes need urgent attention.
Tell the doctor first if you
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take blood thinners, aspirin or supplements such as fish oil or ginkgo
- Have had previous fillers, threads or non-dissolvable implants in the area
- Have allergies (including to lidocaine), autoimmune disease, cold sores or an active skin infection
Aftercare
Avoid pressing or massaging the area, saunas, alcohol and hard exercise for 2–3 days, and sleep with your head slightly raised the first night. If you notice unusual pain, colour change or anything that worries you, contact us on WhatsApp straight away.
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every dermal filler plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
Dermal filler FAQ
How much do dermal fillers cost in Gangnam?
At Bailor Clinic in Sinsa, HA filler starts at ₩180,000 for the chin (1–2cc) and ₩200,000 for lips, with nasolabial folds from ₩350,000, VAT excluded. Under-eye filler starts at ₩450,000. See the dermal filler price list.
How long do fillers last?
Typically about 6–12 months for lips and other mobile areas and 12–24 months for deeper areas such as the chin and cheeks. Product, area and your metabolism all play a part.
Can fillers be dissolved?
Hyaluronic acid fillers can usually be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Filler dissolving costs ₩150,000 per 1cc. Collagen-stimulating fillers such as Radiesse cannot be dissolved in the same way.
Do fillers hurt?
Most people feel pressure and mild stinging. Numbing cream is applied first, and most HA fillers contain lidocaine to reduce discomfort during injection.
Will I look overfilled?
Our approach is to restore balance rather than add as much volume as possible. The doctor may suggest a conservative first session and a review within 4 weeks to fine-tune.
Can I fly after dermal fillers?
Generally yes, but it is wise to wait at least 24 hours and to have treatment a few days before you fly so the doctor can review any swelling or bruising.
