Who Is a Good Candidate for Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are non-surgical treatments that help restore volume, smooth out lines, and refresh the face. They’re done in a clinic, often in under an hour, and can leave you looking more awake, lifted, or even just softer.

Many people are great matches for filler—but not everyone.

This article breaks down what makes someone a strong candidate. We’ll keep things simple and clear. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Would this work for me?”, this guide is for you.

We’ll walk through the most common dermal filler candidate criteria, so you can go into your consultation informed and confident.

Understanding What Dermal Fillers Do

Fillers work by adding volume just beneath the skin. They’re injected using tiny needles or cannulas, depending on the area.

They’re most often used in places like:

The cheeks
Lips
Smile lines (also called nasolabial folds)
Under the eyes

There are different kinds of filler materials, too. Some are made from hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and plumps. Others use calcium-based gels for stronger lift and support.

Each one feels and behaves a little differently. That’s why understanding what they do is important when deciding if you’re a match.

General Traits of Good Dermal Filler Candidates

Most people who get fillers fall into a few general categories.

Here’s what a typical candidate looks like:

Adults over 21: The skin has matured enough for treatment, and goals tend to be clearer.
In good health: No major medical issues. This helps your body heal well after the procedure.
Visible signs of aging or volume loss: Think fine lines, slight drooping, or hollow spots.
Realistic expectations: Fillers help, but they won’t change your entire face. They offer subtle, natural-looking improvement.

If you meet these, chances are good that fillers could work well for you.

That said, results vary depending on your goals. Let’s break those down next.

Dermal Filler Candidate Criteria by Goal

Not all filler patients are the same. Some want big lips. Others want to fix asymmetry. Your goal affects your treatment—and whether you’re a good match.

Here are a few common goals:

Lip enhancement

You may be a fit if you want gentle volume or more shape. Good lip candidates have healthy skin and no active cold sores. You don’t need to want big changes—a little boost goes a long way.

Smoothing wrinkles

This is for people with visible lines when the face is at rest. Fillers can soften these, especially around the mouth and nose. If you have mild sagging but want to avoid surgery, fillers are a strong option.

Volume restoration

If your cheeks or temples have started to sink with age, this might be for you. People who have experienced natural facial thinning often respond well.

Balancing the face

This one is all about harmony. Maybe one cheek is flatter than the other, or the chin feels too small. Fillers can even things out—subtly. Patients with these goals usually benefit from a detailed facial assessment.

All of these fall under the types of dermal fillers explained during your consult. Your provider will match the goal to the right product.

Situations That May Delay Filler Treatment

Even if you meet all the typical criteria, some situations call for waiting.

Here’s when it might be better to hold off:

Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Fillers haven’t been tested enough for safety during these times.
Active skin infections or cold sores: The risk of spreading or worsening the condition is higher.
Certain health conditions: People with autoimmune issues or bleeding disorders may need to avoid fillers or take special precautions.
Recent procedures: If you’ve had chemical peels, lasers, or microneedling recently, your skin may need time to heal first.

These don’t necessarily mean “no.” They just mean “not right now.”

How to Prepare for a Dermal Filler Consultation

Your consultation is where everything starts. It’s more than just picking a filler—it’s where your goals and your health are evaluated together.

Be ready to share:

Your medical history: Conditions, allergies, or anything that affects your body’s healing.
Any current medications: Some medications increase the risk of bruising.
Past cosmetic treatments: Your injector needs to know if you’ve had Botox, lasers, or previous fillers.
What you’re hoping to change: Be specific. If you want smoother cheeks, say that. If you want to look less tired, describe it.

This is also a great time to ask how long your results will last. A trained provider can explain how long do dermal fillers last based on your treatment plan.

Final Considerations Before Getting Fillers

You’ve talked to a professional, set goals, and everything checks out. Now what?

Before you book your appointment, stop and think about a few more things:

Emotional readiness

Fillers change your face—even if it’s just a little. Make sure you’re doing this for you, not because of pressure from others or social media trends.

Budget

Fillers are an ongoing investment. Many people come back every 6 to 12 months for touch-ups. Prices vary depending on the product and area treated.

Time

You might need multiple sessions to achieve your desired outcome. Some fillers take time to build or settle. Give yourself space in your schedule.

You can also ask about different product options during the consult. Your provider should walk you through the types of dermal fillers explained so you understand what’s being used.

If you’re ready and meet the criteria, it’s also possible to order a dermal filler through a professional source. But only do this under supervision—never self-inject.

References

Parkins Plastic Surgery. (2023). Who are the best candidates for facial fillers? Retrieved August 5, 2025, from https://www.parkinsplasticsurgery.com/who-are-the-best-candidates-for-facial-fillers/

Sclafani, A. P., & Fagien, S. (2009). Treatment of the aging face with soft tissue fillers. Clinics in Plastic Surgery, 36(2), 301–312.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cps.2008.11.008

Lemperle, G., Holmes, R. E., Cohen, S. R., & Lemperle, S. M. (2001). A classification of facial wrinkles. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 108(6), 1735–1750. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006534-200111000-00046Sadick, N. S. (2008). Soft tissue fillers: Overview of clinical use. Dermatologic Surgery, 34(S1), S115–S128. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1524-4725.2008.34249.x

Common Questions About This Topic

Can men get dermal fillers too?

Yes, and more are doing it every year. Men often get fillers for jawline shaping, cheek definition, or under-eye tiredness.

What age should you start considering fillers?

There’s no set age. Some start in their late 20s for early prevention. Others wait until signs of aging are more visible. It depends on your skin, not your birth year.

How do I know if I’m ready for fillers?

If you’ve noticed changes you want to improve—but aren’t ready for surgery—a filler consult can help. It’s low-pressure, and you don’t have to decide right away.

Do fillers require downtime?

Most don’t. You might have some mild swelling or redness for a day or two, but most people go back to their routine right away.

Will fillers make me look unnatural?

Not if they’re done properly. The key is subtle, skilled placement by a trained hand. Good work isn’t obvious—it just makes you look refreshed.

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