RHA Filler
RHA Filler is an FDA-approved dermal filler used to temporarily restore facial volume and smooth dynamic wrinkles in adults. This injectable dermal filler contains hyaluronic acid (HA) — a naturally occurring substance in the body — which attracts and retains moisture to add volume beneath the skin. By mimicking the body’s own hyaluronic acid, it provides natural-looking results that move with your facial expressions for a refreshed, youthful appearance.
RHA is part of a new generation of resilient hyaluronic acid fillers designed for areas of the face that move dynamically, helping to smooth frown lines, smile lines, marionette lines, and other facial wrinkles while maintaining natural facial dynamics.
Why Choose RHA Treatments?
Are you looking to refresh your look with a natural appearance that still allows expression? RHA Fillers might be the ideal solution for you.
Quick and Effective
RHA treatments are outpatient procedures that typically take 15–30 minutes with minimal downtime. Most patients see treatment results immediately, with continued improvement over the following days.
Natural-Looking Results
RHA was created to maintain facial dynamics while smoothing lines, wrinkles, and skin folds. Its resilient hyaluronic acid gel adapts to your facial anatomy, helping you achieve a youthful appearance that looks authentic — not overdone.
Long-Lasting Effects
RHA results can last up to 12–15 months, outlasting many other hyaluronic acid fillers. Regular repeat injections help maintain smooth lines and restored volume year-round.
Proven Safety
As an FDA-approved dermal filler, RHA meets the Food and Drug Administration standards for safety and performance. Backed by extensive research in cosmetic dermatology, it’s trusted by board-certified providers worldwide.
Who is a Good Candidate for RHA?
Ideal Candidate Criteria
RHA is an excellent option for individuals who want to restore volume and reduce deep wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions.
Dynamic Wrinkles: Ideal for nasolabial folds, marionette lines, frown lines, and smile lines.
Natural Results: Perfect for patients who want natural-looking results that preserve facial movement.
Age Range: Typically effective for adults in their 30s to 60s, depending on volume loss and skin elasticity.
Healthy Skin: Candidates should have no active inflammation or infection at the injection site.
Non-Pregnant/Nursing: Injectable fillers are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Pre-treatment Considerations
Preparing for your RHA appointment ensures the best treatment results.
- Consultation First: A thorough discussion of your medical history and treatment goals with a board-certified provider is essential.
- Avoid Blood Thinners: Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E for 7–10 days prior (unless advised otherwise) to reduce bruising and bleeding at the injection site.
- Stay Healthy: Reschedule if you’re feeling unwell or have a skin infection.
- Plan Ahead: Allow two weeks before major events for swelling and redness to subside.
How does RHA work?
RHA dermal filler injections use cross-linked hyaluronic acid — a naturally occurring substance in the skin — to add volume and smooth deep wrinkles. The innovative manufacturing process preserves the HA structure, creating a gel-like substance that stretches and returns to its shape for natural facial movement.
When filler injected beneath the surface, it integrates seamlessly with the facial anatomy, replenishing areas affected by volume loss and aging.
Technique Used
The technique for administering RHA injections involves several key steps to ensure precision and patient comfort.
- Skin Preparation: Skin is cleansed with antiseptic to reduce infection risk.
- Identification of Injection Sites: The provider evaluates facial features and expressions to identify the best injection depth and treatment areas.
- Injection Technique: Using a thin needle or cannula, small amounts of HA filler are precisely injected into targeted areas. A topical anesthetic may be applied for comfort.
What to Expect During the Appointment
Duration and Process
The medical procedure takes about 15–30 minutes, depending on the number of areas treated.
Pain and Comfort Management
RHA uses very fine needles, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. You may request topical anesthetic or vibration anesthesia for enhanced comfort.
Results and Longevity
When to Expect Results
You’ll notice immediate improvement from added facial volume. Full treatment results appear within 7–14 days as swelling resolves.
How Long Results Last
RHA typically lasts 12–15 months, longer than many other fillers. Maintenance filler injections may be recommended annually to sustain results.
Aftercare and Recovery
Post-Treatment Care
- Avoid lying flat for 4 hours after your injections.
- Skip strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
- Do not massage or press on the treatment area for 48 hours.
- Avoid applying makeup until redness subsides.
- Postpone facials or cosmetic procedures for at least two weeks.
- Protect your results with daily SPF 30+ sunscreen to prevent premature aging.
Risks and Side Effects
Like all dermal fillers, RHA may cause temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection site. Rare complications can include:
- Allergic reaction
- Infection
- Vascular occlusion or skin necrosis from accidental injection into a blood vessel
Providers may prescribe oral antibiotics if signs of infection occur. Always share your medical history to minimize risks.
Is RHA better than other fillers?
When comparing RHA with other hyaluronic acid fillers, the best choice depends on your goals and facial anatomy.
- Flexibility: RHA adapts to movement better than traditional dermal filler materials, making it ideal for dynamic wrinkles.
- Duration: RHA typically lasts longer (12–15 months) compared to some other fillers lasting 6–12 months.
- Composition: Unlike poly-L-lactic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, or injectable silicone, RHA is made from hyaluronic acid—a gel-like substance injected for natural-looking results.
- Value: Though priced higher per syringe, its longevity provides excellent value.
Some patients may also consider fat grafting, autologous fat grafting, or facial fat grafting as alternatives to injectable fillers; however, RHA remains a less invasive, reversible medical device treatment option.
Are there any contraindications to receiving RHA Treatment?
You should not receive RHA Fillers if you:
- Have known allergies to hyaluronic acid or any filler components.
- Have an active infection or inflammation at the injection site.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have bleeding disorders or take blood thinners that cannot be paused.
- Have a history of severe allergic reactions.