Hello, this is Dr. Dohoon Kim!
Today, I’d like to discuss a recent case of a young woman in her twenties who received under-eye, front cheek, and nasolabial fold volume treatment. I’ll explain why these options were chosen.
Under-Eye, Front Cheeks, Nasolabial Folds Before & After
Below is a before-and-after photo of the patient, shared with her consent.
Collagen Boosters vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
The patient, who was in her early twenties, initially came in thinking about “Juvelook Volume,” which has been trending lately.
Many people who look for collagen boosters such as Juvelook Volume, Ultracol, Sculptra, Collaum, Radiesse, etc., often have a somewhat vague aversion to using fillers.
However, as a doctor, I also use fillers when needed on my own face or on my family members, so they are certainly not always bad.
Some say, “But fillers stay in your face, don’t they?” Actually, most fillers are broken down and absorbed in about a year or so. In contrast, synthetic polymers like Juvelook Volume can remain longer, potentially causing a subtle inflammatory response that stimulates collagen synthesis.
That’s why I take the time to explain these misunderstandings, comparing the effects and side effects of each option in detail.
Think of it this way:
- Filler Effect = 100% Volume
- Juvelook, Sculptra Effect = 30% Volume + 70% Elasticity
If you want to slightly fill in a hollow area naturally and improve elasticity through collagen synthesis (→ preventing further sagging), Juvelook Volume or Sculptra is good.
However, if you want to fill a hollow area more precisely and to the extent you desire, fillers are a better option.
Tip: If your aversion to fillers is too strong, you could try about three sessions of a collagen stimulator first, and if you still feel something is missing, consider adding filler later. 🙂
After my persistent explanation, the patient decided on 0.5cc of Restylane Eyelight for her under-eyes and 0.7cc of Restylane Volyme for her front cheeks. Even with a small amount, we were able to achieve a natural improvement.
Front Cheeks & Under-Eyes Treatment Case
For Nasolabial Folds, Prefer Radiesse Over Fillers
However, unlike the under-eye and front cheek areas, I prefer using the collagen stimulator Radiesse for nasolabial folds.
Why?
Sometimes with fillers, when patients laugh or talk, the filler can migrate upwards (though minimal dissection usually prevents this in many cases, the risk of this complication still exists).
Note: Among collagen boosters, I recommend CaHA-based Radiesse over P(D)LLA-based products.
Radiesse contains CMC as a carrier, which creates a slightly gel-like texture. Compared to products mixed in saline solution, Radiesse maintains its shape better in the initial phase, so it’s more suitable for providing firm support to a narrower area such as the nasolabial folds.
In summary, CaHA-based Radiesse has a lower probability of migration as a side effect and, thanks to collagen synthesis, improves volume depletion + elasticity and wrinkles. This makes it highly recommended for sunken nasolabial folds.
Doctor, what about side effects with Radiesse?
Though the probability is low, nodules can form in some cases. In the past, when Radiesse was used in its undiluted form, there were quite a few nodule cases, and it was sometimes disregarded in the industry.
However, these days, it’s generally diluted at a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio, and nodules rarely occur. The risk of vascular occlusion and other side effects is also significantly reduced.
There is a research paper on this topic which I plan to review soon. 🙂
Most of these side effects largely depend on the injector’s technique. That’s why it’s important to find a doctor with plenty of experience. In case you do experience side effects, it’s best to return to the same doctor for follow-up or treatment.
Other Factors to Consider
What I’ve mentioned today is not necessarily the absolute answer. While I recommend filler for under-eyes/front cheeks and Radiesse for nasolabial folds, other collagen boosters like Juvelook Volume, Sculptra, Ultracol, etc., can also be viable.
Each patient’s needs—when they want to see results, how much volume they want, side-effect risks, current skin condition, and budget—should all be considered. Rather than making a simplistic choice, it’s best to consult directly with an experienced practitioner and make the decision together.
This has been Dr. Dohoon Kim from Gangnam Tatoa Clinic.
Thank you!
Gangnam Tatoa Clinic : Korean skin care, face contouring 
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