Temple Filler: Is It Safe? Best Brands & Ideal CCs to Use

Sunken temples are a common aesthetic concern that can make the face appear tired, aged, or unbalanced—even in people who are otherwise youthful. These hollows may result from genetics, aging, or weight loss. Temple filler has emerged as a popular non-surgical solution that offers immediate, natural-looking improvement.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about temple filler: from brand selection and safe injection techniques to ideal volume, pre- and post-care, and how it compares to fat grafting and implants. With the right information, you can make a confident, informed decision tailored to your facial structure and goals.

What Is Temple Filler?

Temple filler is a non-surgical procedure that involves injecting hyaluronic acid (HA)-based dermal filler into the temple area to restore volume, correct hollowing, and improve facial balance. This treatment helps create a more youthful and softened appearance, particularly in individuals experiencing volume loss due to aging.

Anatomically, the temple is the region between the outer corner of the eye, the eyebrow tail, and the side hairline. With age or fat atrophy, this area can become sunken—commonly referred to as “hollow temples”—which may cause the face to appear gaunt, aged, or angular.

Types of Filler Used in the Temple Area

Filler products suitable for the temple area typically have the following characteristics:

• High density and cohesiveness (high G’)
• Good structural integrity and minimal migration
• Long-lasting results, generally 12–18 months*

Popular brands used for temple augmentation include Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, Belotero Volume, and Neuramis Volume—all of which are approved by Thailand’s FDA and recognized regulatory bodies such as the US FDA and CE (Europe).

Purposes of Temple Filler Injections

• To fill hollow or flattened temple regions
• To enhance facial harmony with a more three-dimensional contour
• To refresh the overall facial appearance and support a youthful look
• In some cultural beliefs, to improve facial “feng shui” or fortune

Injection Technique and Safety Considerations

Temple filler should only be performed by experienced medical professionals with detailed knowledge of facial anatomy. The area contains important blood vessels, such as the superficial temporal artery. Incorrect placement or intravascular injection may result in serious complications.

Modern techniques often use a blunt cannula to minimize risk. Fillers are typically placed in the subcutaneous fat layer or on the supraperiosteal plane (just above the bone) to ensure durability and safety.

Note: A facial assessment by a qualified physician is essential before undergoing temple filler treatment.
Disclaimer: Results may vary from person to person. A consultation with a licensed medical professional is recommended to determine the most suitable approach.

What Causes Hollow Temples?

Hollow temples refer to the visible indentation or volume loss on the sides of the forehead, near the eyes and hairline. This condition may make the face appear sunken, fatigued, or older than one’s actual age. In some cultures, it is even associated with bad “facial energy” or inauspicious facial structure.

Common Causes of Hollow Temples

Several factors can contribute to temporal hollowing:

• Aging: As we age, fat pads and bone volume in the temple region gradually diminish. This leads to visible indentation or loss of structural support.
• Genetics: Some individuals naturally have a concave skull shape or less volume in the temples, making the hollowing more noticeable from a young age.
• Low body fat or rapid weight loss: People with low overall body fat or those who lose weight quickly may experience facial volume loss, including in the temple area.
• Lifestyle factors: Chronic sleep deprivation, high stress, or smoking can accelerate tissue degradation and fat loss in the temples.

Effects of Hollow Temples on Facial Appearance

• Makes the face appear aged, tired, or unhealthy
• May disrupt the balance of facial proportions, especially near the cheekbones and jawline
• Can subtly pull down the brow or eye area, making the eyes look more droopy
• Often causes self-consciousness or dissatisfaction with appearance, even when other facial features remain youthful

What Can Temple Filler Help With?

Temple filler does more than just add volume—it plays a key role in restoring harmony to the face by addressing structural imbalance and signs of aging. For those with visibly hollow or flattened temples, filler can create a more lifted, youthful, and aesthetically balanced appearance.

Benefits of Temple Filler

• Restores volume and softens angular facial features: Helps reduce the sunken look and creates a smoother contour
• Enhances overall facial balance: Especially around the outer eye area, upper cheeks, and hairline
• Lifts the lateral brow and eye area slightly: Adding volume to the temples can subtly support the upper face
• Refreshes and revitalizes the face: Diminishes the tired or aged appearance often caused by hollowing
• Improves how light reflects on the face: May result in better photo angles or enhanced appearance in lighting
• Symbolizes prosperity or good fortune in some cultures: Full temples are often associated with health, vitality, and wealth

Ideal Candidates for Temple Filler

• Individuals with visible hollowing or indentation in the temple area
• Those who’ve tried fat grafting but experienced volume loss
• Patients with flat facial profiles due to significant weight loss
• People seeking a softer, more dimensional facial appearance

Who Is a Good Candidate for Temple Filler?

Temple filler is not a one-size-fits-all solution. A thorough facial assessment by a qualified practitioner is essential before treatment. Factors like facial anatomy, age, fat volume, and individual goals all influence the outcome and suitability.

Ideal Candidates for Temple Filler

• Those with visibly hollow or sunken temples
  • Can occur due to genetics in younger individuals or age-related fat loss
• People with flat or under-defined lateral facial contours
  • Filler adds dimension and softness to the side profile
• Individuals with low body fat or significant weight loss
  • Often experience volume depletion in the temples and midface
• Patients seeking facial contouring without surgery
  • Enhances the upper face and balances features non-invasively
• Those interested in facial “feng shui” or aesthetic balance
  • In some cultures, full temples symbolize wealth, vitality, and good luck

Who Should Avoid or Consult Carefully Before Filler

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Individuals with known allergies to filler ingredients
• People with bleeding disorders or those on blood thinners
• Anyone with a history of permanent or foreign material injections in the temple area

Is Temple Filler Worth It?

One of the most common questions people ask before treatment is: “Is temple filler really worth it?” The answer depends on each person’s facial structure, aesthetic goals, and expectations. When performed correctly by an experienced practitioner, temple filler can yield highly satisfying results.

Benefits of Temple Filler

• Immediate visible improvement: Hollow areas become more voluminous and balanced right after injection
• Minimally invasive and quick: Non-surgical procedure with no downtime
• Enhances facial proportions: Especially for those with strong cheekbones or elongated chins
• Reversible if necessary: HA-based fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if the result is unsatisfactory

Cost-Effectiveness and Longevity

• Average usage ranges from 1–4 cc per case: Depending on individual needs and filler brand
• Duration: approximately 12–18 months: Affected by the product, metabolism, and lifestyle
• Value lies in restored confidence: Especially for those self-conscious about their side profile

Important Considerations

• Always seek treatment from a trained, experienced medical professional
• Accurate diagnosis is essential; temple hollowing must be the true cause
• Avoid decisions based solely on low pricing, as the temple contains critical blood vessels

Is Temple Filler Dangerous?

Temple filler can deliver natural and harmonious results, but it is also considered a high-risk area if not performed by a skilled and anatomically trained practitioner. The temple region contains vital blood vessels and complex structures, making precise technique essential.

Potential Risks of Temple Filler

• Vascular occlusion: Occurs when filler is accidentally injected into blood vessels, such as the superficial temporal artery. This can cause tissue ischemia, and in rare cases, affect vision if spread toward the eye area.
• Lumps or irregular texture: May result from improper filler placement or using the wrong type of filler for the area
• Headache or tightness in the temples: Occasionally reported, especially if too much filler is used or injected too deeply
• Filler migration: Can happen if the product lacks sufficient cohesiveness or is not suited for temple use

How to Minimize Risks

• Seek treatment from a facial anatomy-trained physician with specific experience in temple injections
• Use a blunt cannula instead of a sharp needle to reduce vascular injury
• Inject in the supraperiosteal plane (above the bone) for better safety
• Choose HA fillers that can be dissolved with hyaluronidase in case of complications

Temple filler is not a “basic” procedure—it requires technical skill and anatomical knowledge far beyond routine filler injections. Choosing an experienced practitioner and the right product significantly reduces risk and enhances both safety and results.

Safe Techniques for Temple Filler Injections

Temple filler requires specialized injection techniques to minimize risk and ensure lasting, natural-looking results. Due to the complex anatomy of the temple—including arteries, nerves, and fat compartments—proper planning and execution are crucial.

Common Medical Techniques for Temple Injections

• Supraperiosteal Technique: Filler is placed just above the bone, away from major blood vessels. This deep plane provides stability, minimizes filler migration, and is considered a safer injection zone.
• Blunt Cannula Use: A blunt cannula (typically 25G or 22G) reduces the risk of vascular puncture compared to sharp needles. It also allows smoother distribution in larger areas.
• Low-pressure, Micro-aliquot Injection: Small amounts of filler are slowly injected to avoid pressure buildup or uneven distribution
• Aspiration Before Injection: Pulling back the plunger briefly before injecting to confirm that the cannula is not in a blood vessel

Physician Considerations Before Choosing a Technique

• The patient’s temple anatomy (fat thickness, bone contour, prior treatments)
• History of previous injections, especially with permanent materials
• Desired effect: structural volume vs soft contouring
• The doctor’s preferred method and level of anatomical expertise

How Many CCs of Filler Are Used for Temples?

The amount of filler required for temple augmentation varies based on the individual’s anatomy, degree of volume loss, and desired outcome. There’s no fixed rule—your doctor will assess and recommend the appropriate volume during consultation.

General Volume Guidelines

• 1 – 2 cc per side (average use): For mild to moderate temple hollowing
• Up to 3 – 4 cc per side (in deeper cases): Suitable for those with significant hollowness or flat facial contours
• 0.5 – 1 cc per side: May be sufficient for subtle enhancement or facial balancing

Factors Influencing Filler Volume

• Depth and width of temple hollowing
• Symmetry between the left and right sides of the face
• Brand of filler used (denser fillers may require less volume)
• Patient preference (natural enhancement vs visible contouring)

Important Notes

• The final volume should always be determined by a medical professional
• Many doctors recommend a conservative approach: start small, then reassess
• Overfilling in a single session may cause tightness, swelling, or unnatural texture

Which Temple Filler Brands Are Best in 2025?

Choosing the right filler for the temples involves more than just brand reputation or price. It’s about selecting a product with the right density, elasticity, and safety profile to provide long-lasting volume in a delicate, high-risk area like the temples.

Key Qualities for Temple Fillers

• High G’ and Cohesivity: Ensures strong structural support and prevents migration in wide areas like the temples
• Smooth distribution in deeper layers: Avoids lumpiness and provides a natural contour
• Long-lasting (12–18 months): For fewer touch-ups and better cost-effectiveness
• Approved by trusted health authorities: Such as the Thai FDA, US FDA, and CE (Europe)

Recommended Filler Brands for Temples (2025)

* Approximate duration; actual results may vary by metabolism and aftercare.

Doctor’s Notes

• Results vary between individuals depending on skin type and facial structure
• The right product is selected based on anatomy, skin depth, and desired outcome
• Combining proper product selection with precise technique ensures both safety and satisfaction

Temple Filler vs Fat Grafting vs Silicone Implant: Which Should You Choose?

There are multiple ways to correct hollow temples: hyaluronic acid fillers, fat grafting, and silicone implants. Each method has unique benefits and limitations. The right choice depends on your anatomy, budget, and aesthetic goals.

Comparison Table of Temple Augmentation Techniques

General Recommendations

• Choose filler if you prefer a non-surgical, customizable solution with minimal downtime
• Choose fat grafting if you want to use your own tissue and are okay with variable volume retention
• Choose silicone implant for a permanent structural correction in severe temple hollowing

Always consult with a qualified medical professional to determine the best technique based on your unique facial features and goals.

How to Prepare Before Getting Temple Filler

Though temple filler is a non-surgical, quick procedure, proper preparation beforehand can reduce risks, improve safety, and help achieve longer-lasting, more natural results.

Pre-Treatment Checklist for Temple Filler

• Inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies: Especially bleeding disorders, diabetes, asthma, or previous reactions to anesthetics
• Stop blood-thinning medications and certain supplements 3–7 days prior: Including aspirin, vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo, and ginseng (to minimize bruising and bleeding)
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before treatment: Alcohol increases the risk of bruising and inflammation
• Get adequate sleep and stay well hydrated the night before
• Avoid makeup on the day of the procedure: To reduce the risk of bacterial contamination
• Bring reference photos or clearly describe your aesthetic goals: This helps your doctor align with your expectations

Additional Tips

• Avoid intense physical activity 24 hours before treatment
• Inform your doctor if you’re on your menstrual cycle, as some individuals experience heightened sensitivity or swelling

Step-by-Step Process of Temple Filler Injections

Understanding the steps involved in a temple filler procedure can help patients feel more confident, reduce anxiety, and better assess the outcome. The procedure should always be performed by a qualified medical professional.

Before the Injection

1. Facial assessment and consultation: A doctor evaluates facial structure, temple volume loss, and aesthetic goals
2. Before photos are taken: For visual comparison post-treatment
3. Treatment planning: The physician selects the right filler type and injection strategy tailored to you
4. Skin cleansing and disinfection: Especially in the temple region
5. Topical anesthetic or ice packs (if needed): Based on patient comfort and sensitivity

During the Injection

1. Filler is injected using a cannula or needle: Most physicians prefer a blunt cannula in the supraperiosteal plane for safety
2. Results are evaluated progressively: Gentle massaging may be done to ensure smooth filler distribution
3. Additional filler may be added as needed: To achieve optimal symmetry and outcome

Immediately After the Procedure

1. Cold compress is applied to minimize swelling/bruising
2. After photos are taken: For before-and-after comparison
3. Post-care instructions are given: Such as avoiding pressure, massage, or sleeping on the side for 24–48 hrs
4. Follow-up appointment is scheduled: Usually within 2–4 weeks for review or touch-up

What to Avoid After Temple Filler Injections?

Post-treatment care is crucial for both safety and optimal results. Although temple filler requires little to no downtime, avoiding certain actions during the initial recovery phase helps reduce complications and prolong the effect.

What to Avoid in the First 24–48 Hours

• ❌ Do not massage, press, or manipulate the temple area: This prevents filler displacement or deformation
• ❌ Avoid sleeping on your side or pressing your face against pillows: Sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling
• ❌ Avoid heat or strenuous activities: Including saunas, steam rooms, and intense exercise
• ❌ Avoid alcohol: It may increase the chance of bruising or filler diffusion
• ❌ Do not apply makeup or strong acids (AHAs/BHAs): On or near the treated area to prevent irritation or infection

Additional Precautions for the First Week

• Avoid laser treatments or radiofrequency procedures on the temple area
• Avoid facials or firm massage treatments
• Protect from direct sun exposure and use a gentle, high-SPF sunscreen

How Long Do Temple Filler Results Last?

“How long will it last?” is one of the most frequently asked questions about temple filler. The answer varies based on the filler used, injection technique, and individual lifestyle and care habits.

Estimated Duration of Results

• Typically lasts 12 – 18 months: With high-quality HA fillers like Juvederm Voluma or Restylane Lyft
• In some cases, up to 24 months: Depending on metabolism, filler properties, and injection depth

Factors Affecting Filler Longevity

• Filler brand and type: High G’ (stiffness) and cohesive fillers last longer in structural areas
• Injection plane and technique: Deep injections near the bone often have longer-lasting effects than superficial ones
• Lifestyle and physical activity: Intense workouts, frequent facial massage, or heat exposure can accelerate filler breakdown
• Post-procedure care: Following aftercare instructions significantly helps preserve results

When to Consider a Touch-Up

• Reassessment is recommended around the 12-month mark: To determine if a touch-up is needed
• Don’t wait for the filler to fully dissolve—topping up earlier maintains optimal volume and symmetry

FAQ About Temple Filler

Can temple filler really make me look younger?

Yes, in many cases—especially for individuals with hollow temples and prominent nasolabial folds. Adding volume to the temples can restore facial balance and a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

What should I do if I feel a lump after temple filler?

See your injector promptly. Lumps may result from incorrect filler placement, inappropriate filler type, or poor aftercare. Treatment may involve gentle massage or enzyme-based filler dissolution (hyaluronidase).

Can I get temple filler and Botox at the same time?

Yes, but they should be done in different areas and often on separate days. Botox is not typically used in the temples but can complement fillers in other parts of the face for enhanced facial harmony.

Is temple filler permanent?

No. Most temple fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) and last around 12–18 months. For a more permanent solution, fat grafting or temple implants may be considered.

Is temple filler suitable for men?

Absolutely. Male patients often benefit from temple filler to soften overly angular or hollow features, while still maintaining a masculine facial contour with proper planning.

Conclusion

Temple filler is a highly effective non-surgical treatment that can restore facial harmony, especially in individuals with deep hollows or angular contours. The choice of filler brand, injection technique, and the experience of the practitioner all play a critical role in ensuring both safety and aesthetic success.

While it may seem like a simple procedure, temple injections involve complex anatomy and should be approached with care. Proper preparation, aftercare, and choosing a qualified clinic are key to achieving natural, youthful results without unnecessary risks. With expert guidance, temple filler can truly enhance your facial proportions and overall confidence.