Home › Guides › Dermal fillers

Treatment guide

Dermal Fillers: Cost, Approved Areas and Risks

Dermal fillers are injected gels that smooth wrinkles or add volume to the lips, cheeks, chin and hands. In the US the average physician fee for a hyaluronic acid filler treatment was $715 in 2023.

What it costs

$715

US average physician fee for hyaluronic acid fillers, 2023 [2]

Fillers are usually priced per syringe, and lips, cheeks or under-eye areas can each need a different amount. Ask how many syringes are planned.

What fillers are approved for

The FDA approves dermal fillers for adults 22 and older, to smooth or add fullness to the face and the back of the hands. Absorbable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, are used for moderate to severe wrinkles like the lines from nose to mouth, and to add volume to the lips, cheeks, chin and hands.

The FDA says fillers are not approved for the breasts, buttocks, feet, muscle, bone, or for areas including the nose, forehead, neck, around the eyes and between the brows. [1]

How long it lasts

Most fillers are slowly absorbed by the body, so repeat treatments are needed. How long a filler lasts depends on the product and the area it is injected into. [1]

Side effects and risks

Common side effects are bruising, redness, swelling, pain and itching. The most serious risk is filler being injected into a blood vessel, which can block blood flow and cause skin damage, vision loss or stroke.

The FDA says to get medical help straight away for unusual pain, changes in vision, or skin near the injection turning white, grey or blue. [1]

What the FDA says to avoid

  • Needle-free "hyaluron pens" for injecting filler
  • Fillers bought online, which may be fake or not approved in the US
  • Injecting yourself
  • Injectable silicone for any cosmetic use
[1]

How to choose a provider

  • Choose a licensed provider with experience in fillers, and ask about their training.
  • Ask which product will be used and read its patient labeling.
  • Tell the provider about infections, bleeding problems, allergies, pregnancy or a history of heavy scarring.
  • Ask what happens if you need a complication treated, and who you can call after hours.
[1]

Looking for a med spa? See the top rated med spas in 30 cities, ranked from public reviews.

Find one near you

Questions

How much do lip or cheek fillers cost?

The US average physician fee for a hyaluronic acid filler treatment was $715 in 2023, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Most providers charge per syringe.

How long do fillers last?

It depends on the product and the area. Most fillers are absorbed over time, so treatments are repeated.

What is the biggest risk with fillers?

Injection into a blood vessel, which the FDA says can cause skin damage, vision loss or stroke. Seek care immediately for unusual pain, vision changes or skin color changes near the site.

Sources

  1. Dermal Fillers (Soft Tissue Fillers), US Food and Drug Administration
  2. 2023 average surgeon/physician fees (American Society of Plastic Surgeons)

This guide is general information, not medical advice. It summarizes the sources above, which were last checked on October 22, 2026. Talk to a licensed provider about your own situation.

Top rated med spas by city