A Systematic Review of Dermatological Evaluation of Skin in Individuals Presenting for Facial Filler Injections: A Practical Clinical Perspective

Facial filler injections have become one of the most common aesthetic procedures globally. Despite their popularity, complications can arise, often due to inadequate pre-procedural dermatological assessment. This systematic review aims to synthesize available literature on dermatological evaluations in individuals seeking facial filler treatments, with an emphasis on practical clinical strategies. The review reveals a significant variation in evaluation protocols, with limited standardized guidelines. Key dermatological factors including skin type, hydration, photodamage, inflammatory conditions, and vascular mapping are often under-evaluated. Recommendations are proposed for a comprehensive yet practical pre-treatment skin assessment protocol to optimize outcomes and reduce complications. Dermal fillers, particularly those based on hyaluronic acid (HA), are widely used in aesthetic dermatology for facial volume restoration, contour enhancement, and wrinkle reduction. Despite their minimally invasive nature, filler injections are not risk-free.