Current Practices in Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Filler Treatment in Asia Pacific and Practical Approaches to Achieving Safe and Natural-Looking Results

Complications such as delayed inflammatory reactions (DIRs) and unnatural outcomes can sometimes arise from hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal filler treatments and can be challenging to address. Given the popularity of HA dermal fillers for aesthetic procedures, there is a need for preventive strategies to minimize these complications. Two hundred practitioners from 10 regions in Asia Pacific who administer HA fillers completed a survey on prevention of DIRs and unnatural outcomes. Thirteen global experts convened to evaluate the current practices and propose practical approaches for safe and appropriate use of HA dermal fillers. From the survey, the top three measures used to reduce the risk of DIRs included choosing an appropriate HA filler, aseptic technique, and patient selection. Key strategies employed to achieve natural-looking outcomes were treatment customization, understanding the rheological properties and behavior of different HA fillers, and being conservative in treatment approach. The panel developed a concise reference guide aimed at minimizing the risk of DIRs while achieving natural aesthetic outcomes. Five practical considerations were recommended: patient assessment and individualization of treatment plan, choice of an appropriate HA filler, adequate knowledge of facial anatomy, strict adherence to aseptic methods, and proper injection technique. The panel highlighted the need for education efforts to increase awareness of differential immunogenicity between HA fillers and to improve understanding on the importance of preserving aesthetic individuality for optimal results. These practical insights from the global experts support practitioners in optimizing safety and quality of aesthetic treatment with HA fillers.