By Alex Donald, Registered Nurse | 15 August 2026
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in New Zealand, and for good reason. They can restore lost volume, soften lines, enhance facial contours, and create a refreshed, youthful appearance — all without surgery. But there's a lot of misinformation out there. In this guide, I'll walk you through what dermal fillers actually are, how they work, and what you can expect if you're considering treatment.
Most dermal fillers used in appearance medicine are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) — a substance that occurs naturally in your skin. HA has a remarkable ability to attract and hold water, which gives skin its plump, hydrated, youthful appearance. As we age, our natural HA levels decrease, contributing to volume loss, sagging, and the formation of lines and folds.
Dermal filler is injected beneath the skin to restore this lost volume. The result is immediate: treated areas look fuller, smoother, and more hydrated. At Embrace Cosmetics, I use Belotero fillers, which are known for their smooth integration with natural tissue.
Your filler appointment begins with a consultation to discuss your goals and assess your facial anatomy. I'll determine the right type and amount of filler for your desired result.
The treatment itself takes 30-45 minutes. I use a fine needle or cannula to carefully place the filler, and most fillers contain a local anaesthetic for comfort. You'll see results immediately, though there may be some swelling that settles over the following days.
Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last 6-12 months, depending on the area treated, the type of filler used, and your individual metabolism. Areas with more movement (like lips) tend to metabolise filler faster than areas with less movement (like cheeks).
Hyaluronic acid fillers have an excellent safety profile. Because HA is a substance your body naturally produces, the risk of allergic reaction is very low. One of the advantages of HA fillers specifically is that they can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if needed — this provides a safety net that permanent fillers don't offer.
However, like any medical procedure, fillers carry risks. These include bruising, swelling, asymmetry, and in rare cases, vascular complications. This is why it's essential to have fillers administered by a qualified, experienced practitioner in a clinical setting with appropriate medical oversight.
Read more: Dermal fillers treatment page | Full pricing | About Nurse Alex
Dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid are medical devices. Common side effects include bruising, swelling, redness, and tenderness at the injection site. More serious but rare risks include vascular occlusion, infection, and late-onset granulomas. Treatment should only be administered by a qualified health professional.
Cosmetic injectable procedures at Embrace Cosmetics are performed by Registered Nurse Alex Donald working under the medical direction and standing orders of Dr. Shareen Jacob. For adults 18+ only.
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for an in-person medical consultation. Individual results may vary.