What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments used to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and rejuvenate the skin. They are a popular option in aesthetic medicine for addressing signs of aging and enhancing natural facial features.
Types of dermal fillers
There are several categories of dermal fillers, each suited to different goals:
- Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers – The most common type, used for lips, cheeks, under-eyes, and smoothing lines. Popular brands include Restylane® and Juvederm®.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers – Provide structural support and stimulate collagen.
- Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers – Biostimulatory, encouraging your body to rebuild volume gradually.
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers – Longer-lasting option with tiny microspheres for support.
At Glendale Whole Health, we primarily use hyaluronic acid fillers, given their safety profile, versatility, and reversibility if needed.
Treatment areas
Dermal fillers can be used to:
- Soften smile lines (nasolabial folds) and marionette lines
- Enhance lips (volume, shape, definition)
- Add contour and lift to cheeks and midface
- Smooth under-eye hollows
- Define the jawline and chin
- Restore volume loss from aging for a natural, refreshed look
What to expect during treatment
- Procedure: Fillers are injected with a fine needle or cannula by a trained healthcare provider.
- Time: Sessions typically take 30–45 minutes.
- Downtime: Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Mild swelling or bruising is possible.
- Results: Improvements are visible immediately, with final results after swelling resolves.
- Longevity: Effects last 6–24 months depending on the filler type, area treated, and your metabolism.
Possible side effects of dermal fillers
Most patients tolerate fillers well, but all medical procedures carry some risks.
Common and temporary
- Redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site
- Tenderness, itching, or firmness under the skin
- Mild asymmetry until swelling subsides
Less common
- Prolonged swelling or bruising
- Small nodules or firmness under the skin
- Infection at the injection site
- Cold sore flare (if lips are treated and you have a history of herpes simplex)
Rare but serious
- Allergic reaction
- Vascular occlusion (blockage of a blood vessel) that may compromise skin or eye health
- Skin necrosis or scarring (very rare if treated promptly)
- Visual disturbance or blindness (extremely rare but documented)
At Glendale Whole Health, we use advanced injection methods — including microdroplet, retrograde, and negative aspiration techniques — to maximize safety. We also have immediate access to complication-management protocols. Patients receive clear aftercare instructions and know when to contact us.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers at Glendale Whole Health
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps maintain hydration and structure. HA fillers are biocompatible, reversible, and come in specialized formulations designed for different areas of the face.
Available options and pricing:
- Restylane Contour – $775/syringe
- Restylane Defyne – $750/syringe
- Restylane Kysse – $750/syringe
- Restylane Lyft – $700/syringe
- Restylane Silk – $700/syringe
Who performs filler injections?
All dermal filler injections at Glendale Whole Health are performed by Dr. Speller, a Certified Aesthetic Provider™, trained through the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine (IAPAM). In addition, Dr. Speller has completed advanced hands-on training under the guidance of a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, gaining expertise in precision techniques for safe, natural results.
She also offers botulinum toxin type A and Sculptra®, and is committed to subtle, balanced enhancements that help patients look refreshed — never overdone.
Ready to enhance your look?
If you’re interested in dermal fillers, call us at (818) 551-0464 or request an appointment online. We’d love to help you achieve natural, refreshed results.