Dermal Fillers
Dermal Fillers in Chevy Chase, MD
★ 5.0 · 363 Google reviews
Medically reviewed by Tina B. West, MD, board-certified dermatologist · Updated November 2, 2026.
Fillers from the dermatologist who trains other doctors to inject them.
Dermal fillers restore volume the face loses over time, from collagen, bone and fat loss and sun exposure. At The West Institute, every filler treatment is performed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tina West, who has trained other physicians in advanced filler techniques as a consultant and injectables trainer for Allergan and Galderma. Her goal: you look rested and refreshed, and no one can tell you had anything done.
Patients come from Washington, DC, Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Potomac and Northern Virginia.
Why Dr. West For Fillers
- She took part in its approval. Dr. West participated in the original phase III FDA clinical trials for Botox Cosmetic.
- She co-authored the research on dose and duration. The first study to show how the number of units affects how long results last, presented to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. She uses it to set your dose and interval.
- She trains other injectors. As a consultant and injectables trainer for Allergan (maker of Botox) and Galderma (maker of Dysport), she has trained other physicians in advanced techniques.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Fillers are FDA-approved gels injected beneath the skin to replace lost volume. Most are made of hyaluronic acid, a sugar your body already makes, which lowers the chance of sensitivity. Others, like Sculptra and Radiesse, stimulate your own collagen.
Dr. West uses her trademarked Facelift in a Syringe™ technique to rebalance the whole face with minimal filler, usually together with neuromodulators.
Who Should Avoid Filler Injections?
- You’re allergic to any filler ingredient
- You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have a viral, fungal or bacterial infection at the injection site
- You’ve had, or will have, an immunization within 2 weeks of your appointment
Which Filler Is Right For Me?
Dr. West chooses the product by area, depth and the effect you want, and often combines several.
| Filler | Type | Common uses here | How long it lasts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juvéderm | Hyaluronic acid | Volume and hydration | Up to 1–2 years |
| Restylane | Hyaluronic acid | Lips, lip lines, nasolabial folds, under-eyes | Up to 1 year |
| RHA (2, 3, 4) | Hyaluronic acid | Lines that move with expression, e.g., nasolabial folds | 9–18 months in some patients |
| Evolysse | Hyaluronic acid | Natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation | Varies by area |
| Sculptra | Poly-L-lactic acid | Deep hollows; gradual, over several sessions | Up to 2 years |
| Radiesse | Collagen stimulator | Jawline, hands, inner arms, chest, above the knees | Varies by area |
Longevity depends on the product, the area treated and your metabolism; Dr. West outlines realistic duration and maintenance at your consultation.
Why Choose Dr. Tina West?
Choosing a dermatologist means trusting their judgment, experience, and approach to your care. At The West Institute, Dr. Tina B. West brings decades of cosmetic dermatology experience to help you make informed treatment decisions.
- Dual board-certified expertise. Dr. West is board-certified in dermatology and internal medicine, bringing a broad medical perspective to skin health and aesthetic care.
- More than 30 years of experience. In private practice since 1996, she combines extensive clinical experience with an individualized approach to treatment.
- An educator and published physician. Her background includes teaching in advanced laser surgery courses and publishing in peer-reviewed journals, including Dermatologic Surgery and the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Trusted by patients. The West Institute’s 363 five-star Google reviews reflect patients’ experiences with the practice, its team, and their care.
Explore your options with Dr. West and discuss a treatment plan tailored to your skin, goals, and medical history.
What Is Tear Trough Filler?
Tear trough filler softens hollows and dark circles under the eyes and smooths the line between lid and cheek.
For this thin area Dr. West uses a hyaluronic acid filler such as Restylane or Restylane Silk. Results are visible right away and typically last 6–12 months. Hyaluronic acid can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed, and thin products lower the risk of a bluish tint (Tyndall effect).
More: Tear trough fillers for under-eye bags · The best technique for under-eye filler
What Is Facial Balancing?
Facial balancing looks at the whole face, not one feature. By restoring volume in areas such as the cheeks, chin, jawline, temples or lips, Dr. West creates better proportion. She places small amounts precisely and keeps natural landmarks, so results look harmonious, never overfilled. Some asymmetry is natural; she aims for balance, not perfect symmetry.
What Happens At A Filler Appointment?
- Dr. West spends about 30 minutes on your consultation and plan.
- Photos are taken, and a customized numbing cream sits for about 20 minutes.
- Your skin is cleansed, and Dr. West maps blood vessels with an AccuVein device to reduce bruising.
- Ice is applied, then Dr. West injects. Most patients feel little discomfort.
- You’re invited back the next day for a complimentary DermV laser treatment if any bruise appears, to help it resolve within 24 hours.