Patient Misconceptions About Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Experience-based Considerations

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers have been a mainstay of nonsurgical aesthetic treatment for the past two decades. Their safety and effectiveness are supported by a large quantity of clinical trial data and abundant real-world experience. However, there are several commonly expressed patient concerns that may discourage some individuals from seeking treatment. In recent years, negative perceptions have been fueled and frequently exaggerated by online amplification of incorrect information. Patients are often apprehensive about the risk of an unnatural appearance and some also worry about product displacement or persistence within the tissue. However, such concerns can typically be mitigated by following key principles of best practice. Unnatural outcomes are generally due to suboptimal clinical practice; for example, improper patient and/or product selection, incorrect injection plane, administration of inappropriate product volumes, or under-appreciation of ideals of facial balance and proportion. Hence, comprehensive patient assessment, an expert knowledge of anatomy, and thorough training in treatment methods are all fundamental to ensure optimal outcomes. This manuscript addresses common misconceptions among patients regarding HA fillers and provides experienced-based considerations on avoiding such problems, including approaches to patient communication and education.