Lisa Espinoza, MD, Discusses Key Findings from Allergan Aesthetics’ Report on HA Fillers

Lisa Espinoza, MD, owner and medical director of La Chelé Medical Aesthetics in Pennsylvania and a dedicated practitioner of cosmetic dermatology since 2007, recently shared her insights on Allergan Aesthetics’ Hyaluronic Acid Injectable Fillers Report. With 2 decades of experience and one of the nation’s largest injectable practices, Espinoza highlighted several key findings and clinical implications from the report.

One of the most striking statistics, according to Espinoza, was that 97% of patients reported high satisfaction following hyaluronic acid (HA) filler treatments. Despite pervasive discourse on social media, this figure underscores HA fillers' enduring popularity and effectiveness. With over 5 million patients treated in the past year alone, HA fillers remain a foundational tool in aesthetic dermatology. Espinoza emphasized that as the aesthetics industry evolves, HA fillers continue to offer a reliable, safe, and customizable approach to facial rejuvenation, particularly as concerns like age-related volume loss and the facial effects of rapid weight loss become more prevalent.

“My patients are in love with fillers, the same, now in 2025 as they were back in 2007. But I think as an industry, we've gotten better,” she said.

The report also reflects a notable shift in patient preferences toward more natural-looking results. Approximately 78% of patients now seek subtle enhancements, with 90% citing "natural appearance" as their top satisfaction driver. Espinoza noted that her patients frequently request outcomes that help them look like a younger version of themselves—refreshed and “undone.”

Social media’s influence, while significant, presents challenges. Espinoza observed a rise in patient concerns driven by misinformation and sensationalized content online. Many come to consultations referencing content from Instagram or TikTok, which often exaggerates rare complications with no further explanations.

“Once someone has a certain idea about HA filler from what they learned from ‘TikTok University’ or something that is seen online, it's very difficult to change their mind. It's like a little seed of doubt was planted,” Espinoza noted.

To navigate this, she stresses education and trust-building—correcting misconceptions, discussing safety, and showing patients how subtle, strategic filler use can restore youthful contours. Espinoza confirmed the report is a valuable resource not only for validating patient satisfaction but also for empowering providers to engage in evidence-based discussions, counter misinformation, and emphasize the importance of seeing qualified injectors.

“I often just look at pictures of [a patient’s] younger self and am just explaining to them, ‘Look, I'm just trying to preserve it,’” Espinoza said. “That's what's great about patient relationships, you watch their faces age. And that's why I find injecting HA fillers so rewarding.”