Dermal Fillers: Transformative Options and Personal Experiences
Dermal fillers have maintained their status as highly sought-after in-office treatments for several years. Their capacity to significantly reshape any facial or body area is undeniable. These treatments can restore volume to aging skin, enhance cheekbones, plump thin lips, fill under-eye hollows, smooth wrinkles, and much more. However, it's important to note that not all fillers are created equal. Various brands offer products with different molecular weights and capabilities.
Among the most frequently used facial fillers are Restylane, Juvéderm, Radiesse, and Sculptra. While these products are often compared, they each have distinct characteristics. Both Restylane and Juvéderm are hyaluronic acid-based fillers designed to reduce wrinkles and plump the skin, but the outcomes can vary depending on the specific formulation and application area.
In contrast, Radiesse contains calcium hydroxylapatite as its active ingredient, a mineral found in human bones and teeth. This component works to restore volume immediately and over time, as the body absorbs the gel and metabolizes the calcium to stimulate collagen production.
Sculptra, originally used in HIV patients with severe facial volume loss, is effective in filling hollow or sunken areas of the face but is not suitable for the lips or under the eyes. The active ingredient in Sculptra is poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic compound that promotes collagen production. Significant results with Sculptra typically require several treatments spaced about a month apart, but it is believed to offer longer-lasting effects compared to traditional hyaluronic acid fillers.
When considering dermal fillers, your doctor should be your primary resource for making informed decisions, including selecting the right product for your needs. However, if you're interested in hearing about others' experiences, you can explore what Ruli members have to say about their preferences for specific fillers.
Editor’s note: The following reviews are based on real patients’ opinions and not on clinical studies or factual data. Individual responses to filler injections can vary and depend on multiple factors. For detailed medical insights and clinical studies, refer to these resources.
- Restylane: What You Should Know
- Juvéderm: What You Should Know
- Radiesse: What You Should Know
- Sculptra: What You Should Know
Related: The Reasons Real Patients Prefer One Neurotoxin Over Another
Restylane Reviews
A Minor Amount Yields Major Impact
“I have always wanted to enhance my lips. My lips are naturally small and have become even smaller with age. I had many concerns about the procedure, from the level of pain to the risk of looking overly artificial. The process was slightly painful, but not enough to deter me from doing it again. I love how my lips now look fuller, and my top lip has a more pronounced curve... It looks exactly as I imagined... We initially planned to use a full needle but ended up using a bit less, and I consider it a great decision. This is something I've always wanted to do, and I'm very glad I took the step.” —@nikki92585
“I noticed a significant difference in balancing the volume in my chin with [Restylane] filler. There was improved symmetry in my profile and a better balance in my lips. I would definitely go back for this treatment again.” —@rpazdan
Enhances the Appearance of the Under-Eye Region
“I hated how the puffy bags under my eyes made me look old and tired. I had Restylane injected into the tear trough to fill the line that made my eyes look saggy. The procedure was quick and pain-free! The doctor—who was excellent!—applied a light numbing cream to the area and let it sit for about 20–25 minutes. Then, he very gently administered the filler, and I didn't feel anything! Another doctor told me this procedure would only give me about a 30–40% improvement, but I genuinely believe I achieved a 90% improvement. The confidence boost is definitely 100%!” —@aveda75
“Over the past five years, I started noticing dark circles and deep creases under my eyes. I spent a fortune on creams, devices, etc. I learned about how fillers could improve this area, so I thought about it for over a year. Once I couldn't stand it anymore, I decided to proceed. I did my research and found the perfect physician. I am constantly amazed at how great it looks. I truly wish I had done it sooner... Out of all the self-care treatments I regularly do, this is the most rewarding.” —@ArabelaW
Provides Structure and Softness to Lips
“I've used Juvéderm Ultra and Juvéderm Volbella on my lips in recent years. My last syringe of Volbella wasn't enough for me, so a month later, I went back to try a new product, Restylane Kysse. Kysse is a soft filler, similar to Volbella, but it has some structure like Ultra, and so far, I am very pleased with the results!” —@gregarious5016
Juvéderm Reviews
Restores Youthful Volume
“I've always had full lips, but this year I finally decided to get some filler to make them more pouty, like they were when I was 19—I'm 41 now... I love the youthful look [Juvéderm filler] gives me. I feel much more confident, and lipstick now stays on my lips! Previously, it would all come off quickly, except in the vermilion area lining my lips, and I would walk around looking like I only applied lip liner all day! This filler is amazing, and I regret not starting to use it five years ago!” —@Motomommy2016
Increases Fullness of Lips
“I received my second syringe of Juvéderm Ultra Plus, and I am loving the shape and fullness. About a month ago, I had one full syringe of Juvéderm Ultra, and I still wanted [fuller] lips, so I opted for the Ultra Plus and love it.” —@AZGAL92
“This is my second lip fill, and I've finally achieved the perfect size! The first time, I used Restylane Silk, which filled them nicely, but I wanted them a bit fuller. This time, I chose Juvéderm, and the result was astonishing—exactly the size I've always dreamed of. I'm obsessed.” —@AJ305
“I couldn't be happier with the results! My lips are beautiful, luscious, and plump. I adore them.” —@Jodie63
Subtly Reshapes Facial Features
“I have troublesome tear troughs, but [my injector] recommended starting with cheek fillers to create a base that would later help my tear troughs. I am very satisfied with the results. I have a small face and never had much distinct shape. This has given me a subtle shape without looking overdone. It has helped fill out my tear troughs somewhat and reshape my nose after a septorhinoplasty six months ago. The results are very subtle, but that's exactly what I wanted.” —@mkmcknight
Radiesse Reviews
Smooths Marionette Lines
“I don't particularly like treatments, but I've been getting Botox every six to nine months... and haven't wanted to undergo more extreme measures, aside from regular facials, etc. However, the marionette lines around my mouth and from my nose to mouth made me feel and look old. I am a youthful 56, and I do everything I can to protect my face from the intense Florida sun and don't smoke, so I felt my skin/face maintained a somewhat youthful appearance, except for those pesky lines. The results were immediate. [My injector] said I was the ideal candidate for this, as I wasn't seeking or needing any volume increase, just smoothing. I hope it lasts a long time, and I can't wait to see how it further improves.” —@chelev
Defines the Jawline
“I had one vial of Radiesse spread across my jawline. My jawline has become thinner and less defined due to aging. Since my jawline is less defined, the skin under my neck appears loose. I can't speak about Radiesse on other parts of my face, but as far as my jawline is concerned, I feel like a miracle has occurred. I have no bruising at all, three days later. I am in love with the results, and I hope they persist!!” —@IzzyandLumen
Minimal Bruising and Natural Results
“I've already had the Radiesse treatment twice, and I am truly very satisfied. I had no bruising, and the day after, I could go to work without makeup. The result is extremely natural. I have filled the cheekbones and defined the face contour. The collagen produced has improved the appearance of my skin even after one year. In January, I will repeat the treatment. Can't wait!” —@LaurelCastillo
A More Affordable and Temporary Alternative to Surgery
“I've always been self-conscious about my side profile. I would be mortified to think I look good and then see a photo of myself from a profile angle or catch that angle in a mirror. It didn't feel like I actually looked like that in my perception of myself. I thought it was the size of my nose that was unflattering, but I realized that the bump was the issue. I opted for a nonsurgical nose job as it's cheaper than a surgical one, has a short recovery period, and is temporary.” —@7Seashells4me
Sculptra Reviews
Results After Just One Treatment
“I conservatively had only one vial administered for general volume loss in my face due to weight fluctuations. Although most reviews suggest that you can't notice a result after only one vial, I am already observing a change in my skin texture and some volume returning to my cheeks. I can truly notice the difference when applying my blush in the morning. I can't wait to see the effect of the second vial! It is slow, but I believe it's worth it in the long term!” —@Ansilla
Restores Volume to Concave Regions
“At 37, I had moderate volume loss and significant concavity in my cheeks. I've had three vials of Sculptra so far, and it has tightened and restored volume to my face again. I feel incredibly beautiful every day now. For the appropriate patient and with the right doctor, this could be a valuable treatment. It does add volume, so don't get it if that's not what you're seeking.” —@littlebumbumt
Corrects Facial Wasting Syndrome and Boosts Confidence
“There's an old saying, ‘You only get one chance to make a first impression.’ Sculptra has been helping me make a good one for many years now. Living with HIV has been my reality for over 35 years, and about 10 years ago, I began experiencing facial wasting syndrome. My confidence plummeted to an all-time low. I was constantly aware of 'looking ill,' and I grew tired of people telling me, ‘You lost weight.’ Going out in public, going to work, every moment of every day was painful, even though medically I was doing fine. Then I started using Sculptra. Within a few treatments, my entire life transformed. My confidence soared, and the fear of being judged vanished. I was 'me' again... I can't imagine having to live without it.” —@bwicked
Lasts Longer Than Radiesse and Restylane
“I've had Radiesse injected four times previously but decided to switch to Sculptra for a more prolonged result. I had it injected on and along my cheekbones as well as in the nasolabial folds. Hoping the final results will be similar to how it looks currently. Extremely pleased. Also, it is completely acceptable to have it injected while there is still Radiesse present! I had my Radiesse administered six months ago.” —@KEWtieKye
“I had tried Restylane in the past. However, due to my high metabolism, it wouldn't last long. Sculptra will last at least two years. When comparing the two, Sculptra gives me a more natural appearance than Restylane.” —@jenngrace
