Hyaluronic Acid Filler
Pronunciation: hy-al-yoo-RON-ik AS-id FIL-er
An injectable dermal filler composed of cross-linked hyaluronic acid, used to restore facial volume, smooth wrinkles, and augment soft tissue contours.
Full Definition
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are biodegradable, injectable gels formulated from cross-linked hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in connective tissue. They are the most widely used category of dermal filler in aesthetic medicine and are employed for indications including lip augmentation, nasolabial fold correction, tear trough treatment, and overall facial volumisation. Their effects are reversible via enzymatic dissolution with hyaluronidase, which distinguishes them from permanent or semi-permanent fillers. Editors should note that 'hyaluronic acid filler' and 'dermal filler' are not synonymous—the latter is a broader category encompassing calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and other materials. Correct hyphenation of 'cross-linked' as an attributive adjective should be observed.
Usage
Usage note: Do not conflate with 'dermal filler', which is the superordinate category. 'Hyaluronate' and 'hyaluronic acid' are chemically synonymous and both acceptable, but maintain consistency within a document.
In Context
- "A 1.0 mL hyaluronic acid filler was injected into the vermilion border to enhance lip definition." — Aesthetic treatment report
- "Unlike permanent fillers, hyaluronic acid fillers can be reversed with hyaluronidase in the event of vascular occlusion." — Patient safety guidance document