Why the 8 most common fears about Dermal-Filler don’t deserve real-estate in your brain

(By About Face Aesthetics, Philadelphia)

If you’ve ever paused before booking a dermal filler appointment, you’re not alone. Even in 2025, some of the most common Google searches about fillers include:

• “Do fillers look fake?”

• “What if I hate my filler?”

• “Can filler go wrong?”

At About Face Aesthetics, we’ve heard every concern about popular and prospective skincare treatments—and we completely understand. It’s easy to go online and fall down a “rabbit hole” of terrible “what-ifs,” but please rest assured that when performed by skilled injectors, dermal fillers are one of the safest, most effective, and most customizable tools for facial rejuvenation.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common fears—and the truth behind them:

Common Fears About Dermal Fillers 

1. Looking Unnatural or “Overdone” (The “Pillow Face” Fear): The ‘overdone’ look is a common misconception, often the result of outdated techniques, inexperienced hands or inexperienced providers that don’t know how to say “no”. Our philosophy is always about enhancing your natural beauty, not changing who you are. Our highly skilled injectors use a meticulous, individualized approach to ensure subtle, beautiful results that preserve your unique expressions and leave you looking refreshed, never fake.

2. Pain or Discomfort During Injection: We understand the thought of needles can be daunting, but we go to great lengths to ensure your comfort! Most modern fillers contain lidocaine, a numbing agent, which begins to numb the treatment area as soon as the treatment starts. Depending on the area being treatd and the person’s sensitivities, we can also apply a topical numbing cream or perform lidocaine injections. Our expert providers also use incredibly fine needles and gentle techniques, making any discomfort brief and very manageable – many clients compare it to a quick pinch. (They also know a lot of tricks to fool your nerves and camoflauge the sensations.)

3. Bruising and Swelling: Some minor bruising or swelling is a normal and temporary part of the healing process, but it’s usually quite minimal and resolves quickly. We provide detailed pre and post-care instructions, including tips to reduce these effects, and can often offer solutions like arnica. Most people can resume their daily activities with little to no noticeable downtime, and any residual effects can often be easily concealed with makeup.

4. Complications or Serious Side Effects: Patient safety is our absolute top priority, and serious complications from dermal fillers are extremely rare, especially with highly trained and experienced injectors like ours. Our providers have extensive anatomical knowledge and employ precise injection techniques to minimize risks. We conduct thorough consultations to ensure you’re a suitable candidate and are always here to address any concerns throughout your journey.

5. Cost and Maintenance: Frame dermal fillers as an investment in your self-confidence and a refreshed appearance, rather than a one-time expense. During your consultation, we’ll discuss a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals and budget. Many clients find the beautiful, long-lasting results, which typically last 6-18 months, to be incredibly worthwhile for maintaining their desired look. (Additionally, there are payment-plan options available through Care Credit and Cherry.)

6. Not Liking the Results (and them being semi-permanent): It’s completely normal to feel a bit apprehensive about the results, but hyaluronic acid fillers offer remarkable flexibility and control. Our expert injectors work closely with you to achieve your desired outcome, starting conservatively if preferred. Even better, if for any reason you wish to adjust the results, HA fillers can be safely and effectively dissolved with a special enzyme, giving you peace of mind.

7. Fear of Product Migration: Modern dermal fillers, especially those used by skilled injectors, are designed to integrate well with your tissues and stay where they’re placed. While rare, migration is primarily a risk with improper injection technique or using unsuitable product for a particular area. Our highly experienced providers use precise methods to ensure the filler enhances your features beautifully and stays exactly where it belongs.

8. Fear of the Product Never Going Away: This is a common concern, but rest assured, the most popular and versatile fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in your body. This means they are completely biodegradable and will naturally dissolve over time, typically within 6-18 months. Even better, if you ever wished to reverse the effects sooner, HA fillers can be safely and effectively dissolved by an enzyme called hyaluronidase, giving you complete control over your results.

Final Thoughts: Confidence Over Fear

In the right hands, dermal filler is a precise medical art—not a guessing game. When skill, experience, and an artistic eye meet, the results are elegant, natural, and confidence-boosting.

Your dermal-filler glow shouldn’t be scary—just beautifully, naturally yours.

About Face Aesthetics
Award-Winning Medical Spa | Center City Philadelphia
15+ Years of Expertise in Skin Rejuvenation & Aesthetic Medicine

The post Why the 8 most common fears about Dermal-Filler don’t deserve real-estate in your brain appeared first on About Face Aesthetics.