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In this edition of our Q&A column, a patient writes to Dr. Wolf expressing some confusion about the wide variety of facial fillers offered at different practices. Having visited several facial plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and med spas, they’ve encountered differing products each time and are curious about the reasons behind the variations. The patient asks: “Should I be worried if one uses a different filler than another?” Dr. Wolf explains why this variability exists and how.
It’s common to encounter different filler products when visiting facial plastic surgeons, dermatologists, or med spas—and this is usually not a cause for concern. The variation typically stems from individual preferences, training, brand partnerships, and patient-specific needs. Several reputable filler brands are on the market, including Juvederm (by Allergan), Restylane (by Galderma), and RHA Collection (by Revance). Each offers various formulations suited for different areas of the face, such as lips, cheeks, or fine lines, with differing thickness, flexibility, and longevity.
Doctors may favor certain products because they are more familiar with how they perform in specific areas of the face. Other factors influencing product selection include scientific characteristics like crosslinking technology, cohesiveness, and lifting capacity. Some practices also carry exclusive or limited-distribution products or respond to promotions and pricing from manufacturers.
As long as the filler is FDA-approved, purchased from a legitimate source (not gray-market), and injected by a qualified professional, there is no need to be concerned. What matters most is the injector’s expertise, aesthetic judgment, and understanding of facial anatomy. If you’ve had positive results with a specific product, it’s perfectly fine to request it again or ask why a different product is being recommended.
If you are uncertain, ask the provider what product they plan to use, why it was chosen for you, and where it will be placed. Open communication and consistent documentation are essential for ensuring the safety and satisfaction of injectable treatments.
Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner at Miami Plastic Surgery and is board certified. Email your questions to cwolf@miamiplasticsurgery.com or call 305-595-2969. You can also follow him on Instagram @CarlosWolfMD or visit www.miamiplasticsurgery.com.
