Fillers are substances that are injected below the surface of the skin to increase volume and fullness. It can be used to treat wrinkles and to plump up the lips or cheeks. They can also be used to decrease the appearance of scars as well as for hand treatments. The duration of the effect of filers depends on the materials used and it can be temporary or permanent.

The materials that have been approved are:
calcium hydroxylapatite - effect lasts for 18 months
collagen - effect lasts for up to four months
hyaluronic acid - loses its effect after 6 to 12 months
poly-L-lactic acid - lasts about two years
polymethylmethacrylate beads - the only permanent type of filler available

These fillers are not approved for use in enhancement of your breast, buttocks or muscles. If used for these purposes, it may cause permanent scarring or disfigurement, severe injury, and even death.

The most common side-effects observed are:
skin rash
itching
redness
bruising
bleeding
swelling
undesirable appearance, such as lumps that can be felt and even seen
skin damage that can cause infection or scarring
blurred vision, blindness, or other vision problems
allergic reactions

Many of the side-effects start happening after the filler has been injected and go away within two weeks. However, sometimes, the side-effects can come up weeks, months or years after injection. Talk to a doctor if you have questions or concerns regarding fillers.