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Dermal Fillers

Ralph A. Massey, MD Santa Monica & Encino, CA

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are safe and effective cosmetic injectables that restore lost volume, smooth fine lines, and enhance facial contours without the need for surgery. At Dr. Ralph A. Massey’s practices in Santa Monica and Encino, patients receive expert care from a board-certified specialist known for natural, elegant results.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to address volume loss, wrinkles, and facial asymmetry. Most fillers use hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance that hydrates the skin and provides structure. Others stimulate collagen production to support long-term rejuvenation.

These injectable fillers are a non-surgical alternative to more invasive procedures and are ideal for treating:

  • Fine lines around the mouth and eyes
  • Nasolabial folds and marionette lines
  • Hollow cheeks and temples
  • Thinning lips or undefined lip borders

Types of Dermal Fillers We Offer

Dr. Massey provides a selection of FDA-approved fillers known for safety, performance, and longevity:

  • Restylane® smooths wrinkles, restores cheek volume, and enhances lip shape.
  • Sculptra® stimulates collagen to gradually rebuild facial fullness.

Other facial injectables may also be recommended based on your goals. Dr. Massey personally assesses each patient and selects the appropriate product—or combination—for balanced, natural-looking results.

The Science Behind Dermal Filler Treatments

Collagen and elastin naturally decline with age, leading to sagging and hollowed areas. Dermal fillers address this by:

  • Binding to water within the skin to restore volume
  • Reinforcing areas where fat or structure has diminished
  • Stimulating collagen to improve long-term elasticity

Anti-aging fillers do more than correct—they help preserve your skin’s resilience over time.

Benefits of Dermal Fillers for Facial Rejuvenation

Dermal fillers provide visible improvements without the need for surgery or extended recovery. They restore volume, soften wrinkles, and enhance contours in a subtle, natural way. Most patients see immediate results and return to daily activities the same day. Cosmetic fillers are a flexible solution for those seeking refreshed, more balanced facial features.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Dermal Filler Treatments?

Dermal fillers are ideal for adults who notice fine lines, volume loss, or changes in contour due to aging or weight fluctuations. They suit both first-time patients and those maintaining prior results. During your dermal filler consultation, Dr. Massey will assess your skin and medical history to confirm your candidacy and outline a personalized, safe plan.

Your Personalized Dermal Filler Consultation

Each consultation includes a full medical review, facial evaluation, and discussion of aesthetic goals. Dr. Massey develops a customized treatment approach tailored to your features and desired outcome. As a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, he personally oversees every detail to ensure precision, safety, and satisfaction.

Your Dermal Filler Treatment Experience

Filler injections are performed in-office and usually take 15-45 minutes. After cleansing and marking the area, Dr. Massey may apply numbing cream before injecting the product using fine needles or cannulas. Most patients find the treatment comfortable and resume normal activities shortly after.

Considering additional rejuvenation? Many patients choose Botox to complement their filler results.

What to Expect After Your Dermal Filler Treatment

Mild swelling, redness, or tenderness may appear at the injection site. These effects are temporary and typically resolve within a few days.

Results are often visible immediately and continue to improve as minor swelling subsides. Most patients return to regular activities the same day.

Follow all aftercare instructions to maximize your facial filler results and minimize side effects.

When Will I See Results from Dermal Fillers?

You’ll notice fuller, smoother skin right away, with continued improvement over the next 48–72 hours. Longevity depends on the type of filler used and the treatment area, but most dermal filler results typically last between six and eighteen months.

Recovery Timeline

Most patients resume their routines immediately after treatment. For best results:

  • Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours
  • Refrain from rubbing or massaging treated areas
  • Use cold compresses if needed for swelling

To maintain your look, Dr. Massey may recommend touch-up appointments every 6-12 months. This helps keep your facial filler maintenance on track for long-lasting, natural-looking results.

How Much Do Dermal Fillers Cost?

The cost of dermal fillers depends on several factors, including the type of product used, the number of syringes required, and the specific areas being treated. During your consultation with Dr. Massey, you’ll receive a clear, personalized quote based on your goals and treatment plan. Pricing is always transparent, and flexible financing options may be available to help you move forward with confidence.

Why Choose Dr. Ralph Massey for Dermal Filler Treatments in Santa Monica & Encino, CA

Dr. Ralph A. Massey is a board-certified micrographic dermatologic surgeon with advanced training in cosmetic procedures. Formerly on faculty at Columbia University, he now teaches at UCLA and leads the Cosmetic Surgery Center of Santa Monica.

Patients trust Dr. Massey for his experience, medical precision, and commitment to natural-looking outcomes. Every treatment is performed with care in a comfortable clinical setting, supported by a highly trained and compassionate staff.

See Real Patient Results

Explore natural, refined outcomes in our Before & After Gallery or read patient experiences in our Testimonials.

Dermal Filler FAQs

Yes. Fillers often pair well with Botox and Laser Resurfacing for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

You may experience minor swelling, bruising, or tenderness. These usually resolve within a few days. Serious complications are rare when treated by a skilled provider.

Yes, most hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Restylane, can be safely dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This option provides added peace of mind for patients seeking a reversible treatment.

There’s no “right” age to begin fillers—it depends on your goals and facial changes. Some patients start in their late 20s or early 30s to prevent early signs of aging, while others begin later to restore more significant volume loss. Dr. Massey will recommend an approach based on your individual needs.

Schedule Your Dermal Filler Consultation

Enhance your natural beauty and restore youthful volume—book your dermal filler consultation in Santa Monica or Encino today. Call 310-434-2495 or 310-434-2495 for immediate assistance.

You can also book an online dermatology consult here.

Your Dermal Fillers will be performed by Dr. Ralph A. Massey himself, within his certified outpatient surgery center in Santa Monica.

Read more testimonials

Contact Dr. Massey