Dermal fillers can restore volume, enhance contours, and soften certain lines and folds. But “filler” describes several different materials—not one interchangeable treatment.
Understanding those differences helps explain why product selection matters, why results develop differently, and why some fillers can be dissolved while others cannot.
What can dermal fillers improve?
Depending on the specific product and its approved indications, fillers can address concerns such as lip shape, cheek volume, chin projection, jawline definition, certain facial folds, and selected areas of hollowing.
They do not relax muscles the way neurotoxins do. They also cannot replace surgery when significant tissue laxity is the main concern.
The appropriate treatment depends on what is creating the change you see—not simply where a line or shadow appears.
Hyaluronic acid fillers
Hyaluronic acid, or HA, is a substance naturally present in the body that helps retain moisture. Injectable HA fillers are formulated gels designed to provide different degrees of softness, support, flexibility, and tissue integration.
Examples include products within the Juvéderm, Restylane, Belotero, RHA, and Revanesse collections. Individual products have different indications and properties; sharing a brand name does not make them interchangeable.
HA fillers generally provide immediate volume, although swelling can temporarily affect the appearance. Longevity varies by product, location, amount, and individual response. Some filler may remain longer than its visible cosmetic benefit.
Hyaluronidase can break down HA filler. Its use for filler dissolution is off-label, and complete or predictable reversal is not guaranteed.
Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers
Calcium hydroxylapatite, or CaHA, consists of microspheres suspended in a carrier gel. Radiesse is an example.
The gel provides an initial effect, while the material can also stimulate collagen production. Its properties, treatment considerations, and approved uses differ from those of HA fillers.
CaHA cannot be dissolved with hyaluronidase.
Poly-L-lactic acid
Poly-L-lactic acid, or PLLA, is the material used in Sculptra. Rather than relying on a lasting HA gel to create volume, it stimulates a gradual tissue response that includes new collagen formation.
Improvement develops over time, and treatment may involve a series of appointments. Temporary fullness immediately after injection should not be mistaken for the final result.
Sculptra cannot be dissolved with hyaluronidase.
Polymethylmethacrylate fillers
Polymethylmethacrylate, or PMMA, is a nonresorbable material. Bellafill contains PMMA microspheres suspended in a bovine collagen carrier.
Unlike temporary fillers, the PMMA component remains in the tissues. It cannot be dissolved with hyaluronidase, and unwanted results or complications may be difficult to correct.
This distinction is important before choosing a long-lasting injectable.
Choosing the right product
At Modern Aesthetics in San Jose, I assess your anatomy, existing filler, skin quality, goals, and treatment history before recommending a product. The discussion includes expected results, maintenance, alternatives, and relevant risks.
All filler injections carry potential complications, including bruising, swelling, infection, and uncommon but serious vascular injury that can cause tissue damage, blindness, or stroke.
Schedule a consultation to discuss which approach, if any, is appropriate for the improvement you want.
Updated October 23, 2026.