The difference between filler and hyaluronic acid is that hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers use a natural substance to hydrate skin, restore volume, and temporarily smooth lines and wrinkles. Other fillers use synthetic materials that last longer but aren’t reversible. HA fillers are FDA-approved, safe, and ideal for natural, subtle results.
At Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery in New York City, Dr. Joel Kopelman offers injectable filler treatments that enhance facial contours, helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
Key Takeaways
- Hyaluronic acid fillers are dermal fillers that hydrate skin, soften fine lines, and temporarily smooth lines and wrinkles.
- The main difference between filler and hyaluronic acid is that HA fillers are FDA-approved, hydrating, and reversible, while other fillers last longer but are not reversible.
- These treatments refine facial contours, correct thinning lips, and restore facial volume to reduce visible signs of aging.
- Most treatments take less than an hour and have minimal downtime.
Table of Contents
ToggleWhat Are Hyaluronic Acid Fillers?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are FDA-approved dermal fillers that restore facial volume and smooth fine lines. HA is a natural substance that helps retain moisture and skin firmness. If you’re exploring different types of fillers, you can learn more about the most popular fillers offered by Dr. Kopelman.
How They Work and What They Contain
These injectable filler products use a gel-like HA formula that blends with the skin. Once injected, they add volume, reduce lines and wrinkles, and improve areas such as the lips, cheeks, and under eyes. HA fillers also encourage collagen production, which supports firmer, smoother skin.
Popular Hyaluronic Acid Filler Brands
- Juvéderm – ideal for thinning lips and fine lines
- Restylane – enhances facial contours and cheek structure
- Belotero – smooths delicate lines and wrinkles
Dr. Kopelman selects the best filler based on your features and aesthetic goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Hyaluronic Acid Fillers?
HA fillers are ideal for healthy adults seeking to restore volume and reduce signs of aging without undergoing surgery. They can plump thinning lips, refine facial contours, and smooth wrinkles for a refreshed look.
Dr. Kopelman customizes each treatment plan to match the patient’s facial structure and goals.
What to Expect During a Filler Treatment
Your session starts with a brief consultation to discuss aesthetic goals. After cleaning and numbing the skin, Dr. Kopelman injects filler to add volume and shape your facial contours.
The procedure takes under an hour, and results appear immediately. Mild redness or swelling may occur but fades quickly. HA fillers are designed to temporarily smooth wrinkles and restore facial volume with minimal downtime.
Comparing Hyaluronic Acid and Other Fillers
The difference between hyaluronic acid and filler types depends on how they work. HA fillers hydrate and plump the skin, while non-HA fillers such as calcium hydroxylapatite or poly-L-lactic acid boost collagen production for longer results.
HA fillers feel softer and more natural. Synthetic fillers last longer but are non-reversible. The best choice depends on your preferred look and aesthetic goals.
Juvéderm is an HA filler that restores facial volume, while Botox relaxes muscles to temporarily smooth wrinkles. Many patients combine both for natural rejuvenation.
Results, Safety, and Side Effects
Results are visible immediately and continue to improve as swelling subsides. Patients notice smoother skin, better facial contours, and enhanced facial volume.

Mild swelling or redness may occur but fades in a few days. Most FDA-approved HA fillers last 6–18 months, depending on the product and treatment area. For examples of poor outcomes and how to avoid them, read about face fillers gone wrong.

Comparison at a Glance
- Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: 6–18 months, reversible, hydrating
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite: 12–24 months, collagen-stimulating
- Poly-L-Lactic Acid: Up to 2 years, gradual results
Why Hyaluronic Acid Is Preferred by Many Specialists
Hyaluronic acid is biocompatible and can be safely dissolved if adjustments are needed. Experts choose HA fillers because they:
- Restore facial volume and refine facial contours
- Reduce fine lines and signs of aging
- Stimulate collagen production for firmer skin
- Are FDA-approved and low-risk
Dr. Kopelman often recommends HA fillers for first-time patients because of their flexibility. Dr. Kopelman explains the truth about safety and results in Do Fillers Ruin Your Face?.
FAQs About Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Yes, under expert supervision. Fillers can be combined to refine facial contours and safely reduce fine lines.
Most patients return every 6–12 months. Regular visits with Dr. Kopelman help maintain balanced facial volume and smooth skin over time.
Considering Fillers for the First Time
If you’re new to fillers, expect quick, comfortable treatment and immediate results. Fillers help temporarily smooth lines and wrinkles and subtly refresh your look. Dr. Kopelman ensures that your plan aligns with your aesthetic goals, providing natural and balanced outcomes.
Take the Next Step
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kopelman at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery to learn more about dermal fillers and injectable filler options.
His expertise helps reduce signs of aging, restore facial volume, and temporarily smooth wrinkles using safe, FDA-approved products that support healthy collagen production.



