Dermal Fillers vs. Collagen Bio-Stimulators — Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to restoring youthful volume and improving facial contours, two popular treatment options often come up: Dermal Fillers and Collagen Bio-Stimulators. While both aim to rejuvenate your appearance, they work in different ways and offer unique benefits. Understanding how each works can help you decide which treatment best fits your goals.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers such as Juvederm® and Restylane® are made of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in our skin that retains moisture and keeps it plump.

How They Work: Dermal fillers provide instant volume by physically filling in lines, wrinkles, and hollows. They are perfect for facial contouring, lip enhancement, and softening static lines.

Results:

• Immediate improvement after treatment

• Results last around 9 to 18 months, depending on the product and treatment area

  
  

What Are Collagen Bio-Stimulators?

Bio-stimulators like Sculptra® and Radiesse® work differently. Instead of simply filling space, they stimulate your skin to produce new collagen, rebuilding lost volume naturally over time.

How They Work: These treatments use Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) or Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) to trigger your body’s own collagen production. The process leads to gradual, natural-looking improvements in firmness and elasticity.

Results:

• Gradual improvement over several months

• Results last 2–3 years — much longer than traditional fillers

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Dermal Fillers	Collagen Bio-Stimulators
Main Ingredient	Hyaluronic Acid (HA)	Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) or Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
Mechanism	Fills space instantly	Stimulates new collagen
Onset of Results	Immediate	Gradual
Longevity	9–18 months	2–3 years
Best For	Contouring & fine lines	Global volume restoration & skin tightening

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for instant results, for example, plumper lips or more defined cheeks, hyaluronic Acid fillers are the way to go. If your goal is long-term rejuvenation, improved skin texture, and gradual lifting, bio-stimulators offer a more regenerative approach.

Our Expert Advice

At Reviva Laser Skin Clinic, Dr. Ngai tailors each treatment to your unique facial structure and goals. In many cases, combining both treatments can provide the best of both worlds, immediate enhancement from fillers and long-term collagen renewal from bio-stimulators.

✨ Book your consultation today at 604-233-0878 to find out which treatment plan suits your needs best.