Injectable filler trends in China

Injectable fillers have become an integral component of contemporary aesthetic plastic surgery, accounting for a substantial proportion of non-surgical cosmetic procedures worldwide. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current injectable filler trends in China, with a particular focus on material characteristics, facial contour stabilization injection strategies, emerging treatment areas, and safety considerations. Commonly used materials include hyaluronic acid fillers, collagen fillers, and collagen stimulators such as calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, poly-D,L-lactic acid, and polycaprolactone. Each material exhibits distinct rheological and biological properties that influence clinical indications, injection depth, longevity, and associated risk profiles. In particular, collagen fillers and collagen stimulators have received increasing attention for subtle contour refinement and tissue quality improvement in delicate or large-surface areas. A facial contour stabilization philosophy that differentiates outer and inner facial aesthetic units is increasingly adopted to achieve balanced rejuvenation while minimizing the risk of overfilling. Beyond facial contour refinement, injectable fillers are increasingly utilized for hand, knee, and auricular rejuvenation. Finally, safety issues, particularly facial overfilled syndrome, are discussed, underscoring the importance of conservative planning, anatomical precision, and evidence-based clinical decision-making.