Pharmacology of Temporary Dermal Fillers

Temporary dermal fillers have gained popularity and are the second most requested, nonsurgical aesthetic procedure worldwide. Practical knowledge of available temporary dermal filler pharmacology is an important aspect of aesthetic practice. There are several different types of fillers: (1) temporary or biodegradable, (2) stimulant, and (3) permanent or nonbiodegradable fillers. Each type of filler has specific requisites, and the choice depends on the desired result and longevity to determine which is used on the patient. The temporary fillers of hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA), and poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers will be discussed in this chapter as they are most commonly used by aesthetic practitioners. Although all three filler products are popular, only one has the distinguishing property of reversibility, the HA temporary fillers. The ability to reverse HA fillers easily with hyaluronidase makes them an attractive option for many providers and patients.