Do Fillers and Botox Always Look Unnatural? Will it be Obvious I've had Work Done?
Molly Mae-Hague of Love Island UK, who has opened up about her overfilling and filler dissolving experience.
Can Injectables Provide a Natural-Looking Result, or Will It Be Obvious I’ve Had Work Done?
If you’ve ever considered getting Botox, dermal fillers, or any other injectable treatment, one of the first concerns that likely comes to mind is whether the results will look natural. No patient has intentionally voiced that their aesthetic goal is to look “overdone” or have what is commonly referred to on social media as “pillow face.”
But why does it seem that bad work is all there is out there, whether that’s in-person or online?
What has led to uncanny-looking Instagram-face?
Do all these procedures create unnatural-looking outcomes?
And will you, as the patient, be guaranteed unnatural-looking results that further burdens you with buyers’ remorse?
The truth is, when done correctly, injectable treatments can significantly and profoundly enhance your features in a way that’s subtle, flattering, and still honors your unique beauty. In this post, we’ll explore how to achieve natural-looking results with injectables and why choosing the right practitioner is key.
Overfilling: The Cause of Unnatural Results
Overfilling is one of the most commonly reported concerns among patients seeking filler enhancements or full facial balancing. Overfilling happens when too much dermal filler is injected into one area, causing puffiness, over-projection, or overvolumization. This is often the culprit behind “pillow face,” a condition where the face looks overly plump, rounded, and lacks natural contours. The reason this happens often comes down to an injector using excessive product or performing too many treatments in a short period of time.
So while dermal fillers are designed to enhance volume and provide lift, the quantity of the filler AND the fillers’ firmness matters significantly. Injecting a filler that is too soft in facial area that requires precision can lead to unwanted swelling and puffiness (for example: tear trough filler). Similarly, injecting the same facial area over and over again without careful assessment can lead to product buildup, ultimately distorting facial structures.
Pro-tip: Focus on finding an injector or practitioner that understand filler longevity and how this will change in the setting of progressive facial aging. Ask them questions about your personal anatomy and what their full treatment assessment is. The best providers will not shy away from answering your questions and will encourage you to perform your own research.
THE RIGHT TREATMENT, BUT THE WRONG patient: WHY DIAGNOSING MATTERS
The right injector understands that every face is unique, and treatments should be tailored based on individual facial anatomy and proportions. Unfortunately, a common mistake seen in the aesthetic industry is a “one-size-fits-all” approach to injectables, which is oftentimes caused by:
1) Failing to perform an in-depth, individualized consultation
2) Lack of understanding of what various treatments can do for the face, especially when employed correctly
3) Lack of experience treating the face as a whole
4) Lack of understanding regarding facial anatomy and aging
5) Improper diagnosis of the patient's concern
So while lip fillers may be extremely sought after, not everyone needs lip filler. In fact, one can argue that in many cases patients need less lip filler.
Patient selection is also a critical factor in achieving successful outcomes with injectables. Not every patient requires the same treatment, and a thorough assessment of their facial anatomy, aging process, and aesthetic goals is essential. Incorrect diagnosis—whether it's misunderstanding the cause of volume loss, wrinkles, or facial asymmetry—can lead to improper treatment selection. For example, using dermal fillers to address sagging skin when a patient actually needs skin tightening or volume restoration in a different area can result in unsatisfactory outcomes. Proper diagnosis ensures the right treatment plan, enhancing the chances of natural, balanced results.
Pro-tip: A thorough consultation is crucial to achieving natural results. If your injector does not take the time to have a full consultation prior to injecting, they may not be the right fit for you.
THE ART OF THE CONSULTATION: Why Communication is Key
An effective consultation process is crucial in achieving natural-looking results. If an injector does not take the time to discuss your goals, examine your face thoroughly, and set realistic expectations, the outcome can easily veer into unnatural territory. A rushed consultation or lack of communication may also lead to unsatisfactory results.
Pro-tip: Ask your injector ahead of time how much they dedicate to the consultation process.
Injectors Who Don’t Say “No”: The Profit-Driven Approach
Lastly, an unfortunate reality in the aesthetics industry is that some practitioners may prioritize profit over outcomes. These injectors may say "yes" to every treatment request without considering the potential for over-treatment or unnatural results. This is one of the many reasons why we see celebrities with bountiful resources and money walk around with poor plastic surgery results or botched faces.
A skilled injector will always know when to stop. They will ensure that you don’t end up with too much product, even if that means saying no to additional treatment. This is critical for achieving natural, balanced results and for avoiding complications such as filler migration, where the product moves from the intended area to an unintended one, causing lumps or asymmetry.
Pro-tip: Choose an injector who values your long-term aesthetic over short-term financial gain. Look at their before/after photographs, read their reviews, and vet appropriately.
Achieving Natural-Looking Results with Botox and Fillers
Injectables like Botox and dermal fillers can absolutely provide natural-looking results when administered by a skilled and ethical practitioner. The key is to find someone who understands the art of the consult, provides ample time for discussing treatment options and answering questions, understands the importance of judicious product use, and will not be afraid to set boundaries and say, “No.”
At Clemens Face + Body, located in Coolidge Corner, Brookline, Boston, we specialize in providing subtle, natural-looking results that enhance your natural beauty. Whether you're interested in Botox, dermal fillers, or a combination of aesthetic treatments, we are committed to ensuring you feel confident in your results.
Schedule a virtual and complementary consultation with us today to discuss your goals, and let us help you achieve a refreshed, balanced look without compromising on your individuality.
