HA Fillers: Let’s Talk About the Truth Behind “Filler Face”
- Apex Aesthetics
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 30
Dermal fillers, especially hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, have been a hot topic in the beauty and wellness world. Scroll through TikTok or Instagram, and you’ll see trend terms like “pillow face,” “filler face,” and “overfilled look” used to criticize poorly done filler results. But here’s the reality: when HA fillers are used with artistry, precision, and medical expertise, they don’t make you look “fake.” They help you look natural, refreshed, and like the best version of yourself. In fact, you probably can't even tell if dermal filler has been used, if it's been done right.
At Apex Aesthetics and Wellness in Palm Beach Gardens, Jason Kwiatkowski, PA-C, takes a medical and highly individualized approach to fillers. His philosophy? Your treatment should be prescribed like a medication, tailored to your unique anatomy, lifestyle, and goals, and never a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all injection.
Let’s break down the truth about HA fillers, why the “pillow face” trend misses the point, and what you should really know before getting treatment.
What are HA Fillers, and How Do They Work?
The Science Behind Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in your skin that attracts and holds moisture, giving it that plump, youthful quality. HA fillers (like Juvéderm) are designed to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. They’re one of the safest and most effective tools in aesthetic medicine when used correctly.
Why Do People Talk About “Filler Face” and “Pillow Face”?
The Truth About Overfilling
The internet loves extremes, and unfortunately, so do some injectors. When fillers are overused, they can lead to unnatural roundness, distorted proportions, or a “puffy” look (aka filler face or pillow face). This happens when the injector prioritizes trends or instant volume over balance, structure, and long-term results.
Please note that the images in the gallery above are from a simple Google search and are not a comment on the people photographed or their providers.
At Apex, Jason’s approach is different. He always aims for undetectable rejuvenation, results so natural that no one knows you’ve had fillers, only that you look refreshed and confident. Watch this short video as Jason shares his thoughts on dermal fillers.
How Should HA Fillers Really Be Prescribed?
A Medical and Customized Approach
Think of fillers like a prescription. Just as a surgeon wouldn’t give the same dose of pain medication to every patient, the amount, type, and placement of fillers must be individualized. Jason takes into account:
Age & skin quality
Bone structure & facial symmetry
Lifestyle & long-term goals
Inspiration photos (with realistic expectations)
And here’s something important: Jason isn’t afraid to say no. If a treatment won’t enhance your natural beauty or could lead to an overdone look, he’ll guide you toward a safer, better option.
HA Dermal Filler patients. Treatments performed by Jason Kwiatkowski, MS, PA-C at Apex Aesthetics and Wellness, Palm Beach Gardens, FL
What Are the Most Common Trend Terms Around HA Fillers?
Words You’ll Hear Online vs. What They Really Mean
Pillow Face → Overfilled cheeks or lips that look puffy and unnatural.
Filler Face → A generic term for looking “too done” or “plastic.”
Snatched Jawline → Sharp, contoured definition achieved through careful filler placement.
Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler → Two different approaches: Botox for subtle lift vs. HA filler for volume.
Liquid Facelift → Using HA fillers to lift and rejuvenate the face without surgery.
How Do I Know If Fillers Are Right for Me?
Signs You’ll Benefit from a Consultation
If you’re noticing signs of volume loss, sagging, or dullness in your skin, or if you simply want to look refreshed without surgery, fillers might be the right choice. The key is finding an injector who prioritizes your natural anatomy, balance, and undetectable results.
Why Choose Apex Aesthetics and Wellness in Palm Beach Gardens?
Natural, Artful, Confidence-First Results
At Apex Aesthetics, Jason believes aesthetic treatments should enhance, not erase, your natural features. He creates customized treatment plans designed for subtle rejuvenation, so you’ll look like you, just more refreshed, youthful, and confident.
HA Fillers Are Not the Enemy
HA fillers aren’t the problem... poor technique is. With the right injector, fillers can give you back the glow, structure, and confidence you’ve been missing, without a trace of the dreaded “pillow face.” It's not the injectable, it's the injector. Just make sure you choose the right one!
Ready to see what natural-looking, confidence-boosting dermal fillers can do for you? Schedule a consultation with Jason at Apex Aesthetics and Wellness today.
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