Restoring lost volume to support a fuller, refreshed impression
What is hyaluronic acid filler?
From the 30s onward, declines in collagen, elastin, and bone volume reduce the volume of facial tissues, and the effects of gravity begin to show in the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that exists naturally in the human body. When injected into areas of volume loss, it is used to support a fuller, youthful inverted-egg facial contour, to address wrinkles, and to add volume to the lips and tear troughs.
In recent years, it has also been used from an anti-aging perspective as an approach to skin firmness.
WORRIES — Recommended for those who
・Want to maintain a youthful impression
・Considering volume enhancement of the tear troughs or lips
・Concerned about wrinkles, nasolabial folds, or marionette lines
・Considering shaping of the E-line, nose, chin, or facial contour
・Looking for a natural beauty that fits your life stage
FEATURE — Characteristics
An approach to volume loss
Loss of bone and subcutaneous fat volume is one cause of nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and wrinkles. Our clinic focuses on restoring volume to the areas where it has been lost, using injection methods designed to support meaningful change with smaller volumes.
Care for pain and downtime
We use fine needles and microcannulas, and combine them with nerve block anesthesia (anesthesia at sites where skin nerves converge) and cooling to help limit pain and bruising. We aim for accurate, refined results.
An anti-aging approach
Maintaining firm skin itself is reported to stimulate fibroblasts and is associated with sustaining skin condition. Replenishing bone and subcutaneous volume — both of which begin to decline from the 30s — before sagging progresses is thought to support an age-appropriate impression.
Product selection
Hyaluronic acid products have evolved remarkably in recent years, and characteristics and durations differ by product. Our clinic selects the appropriate product for each treatment area and goal.
An approach to overall impression
As volume loss and sagging progress with age, the eyes can appear smaller, the corners of the mouth may turn down, and cheeks may look gaunt — sometimes giving an impression of being “tired” or “displeased.” Hyaluronic acid replenishes the volume that has been lost and is recommended for those considering a natural impression refresh.
Recommending an appropriate volume
We sometimes receive requests to “add more” out of high expectations for hyaluronic acid, but overfilling can lead to unnatural results and increased risk of complications. At our clinic, the physician may decline requests that exceed the appropriate volume. We aim to be a clinic that supports patients alongside their life stage.
Important notes (risks, side effects, downtime)
| Treatment time | About 20–40 minutes (varies by area and volume) |
|---|---|
| Pain | The pain is generally tolerable without anesthesia, but nerve block or topical anesthesia is used to help reduce discomfort. |
| Downtime | If there is no bruising, things typically settle within about a day. It takes around a week for the hyaluronic acid to integrate with the surrounding tissue. |
| Makeup | Possible from the next day |
| Notes | Showering is OK from the same day; bathing is OK from the next day. Because the hyaluronic acid takes about a week to settle into position, please refrain from drinking on the day of treatment, and from sauna, massage, vigorous exercise, and excessive alcohol intake for one week after. |
| Side effects | Serious side effects: vascular embolism caused by intravascular injection (which may lead to skin necrosis, vision impairment, blindness, or stroke. The frequency is extremely rare, but reports have been documented particularly with injections in the glabella, nose, and nasolabial folds). Other side effects: bruising, swelling, redness, pain, nodules, the Tyndall effect (bluish discoloration), asymmetry, allergic reactions, delayed-onset inflammatory nodules, infection, and reactivation of herpes. Results and side effects vary by individual. |
| Duration | Varies by product, but the filler is gradually absorbed over about 1–2 years. We recommend a follow-up around six months after the first session for fine adjustment. |
*The above describes a typical course; pain, downtime, and results vary by individual.
*Treatment time does not include consultation time.
*Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should refrain from treatment.
*If you experience changes in vision, intense pain, or skin color changes (whitening or purple discoloration) after treatment, please contact our clinic or an emergency medical institution immediately.
FLOW — Treatment process
We listen to your concerns and target areas, then propose a plan tailored to you. Treatments are designed to be customized for each patient.
Treatment may be possible with makeup on for some areas, but we recommend removing makeup, particularly for first-time treatments.
A physician performs the hyaluronic acid injection. Cooling, nerve block anesthesia, and microcannulas are used together, and we check in with you throughout to support pain comfort. There are no additional fees regardless of how many types or how many needles or cannulas are used.
Follow-up visits are not generally required after treatment. The duration varies by product, but the typical interval is once every six months to two years. As the filler is gradually absorbed, we recommend periodic maintenance when concerns return.
Doctor’s note
About hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid has a history of more than 20 years in Japan, having been approved for cosmetic use in 2003. In recent years, longer-lasting and easier-to-handle products have become more common, and injection methods have shifted from the traditional approach of “adding only into wrinkled areas with a needle” toward a “total care” approach: dividing the face into upper, middle, and lower zones and using microcannulas to replenish lost volume, restore balance, and aim for a lifted appearance. Methods focused on safety have become mainstream.
Maintaining firm skin itself is reported to stimulate fibroblasts and is associated with helping limit sagging — drawing attention from an anti-aging perspective as well.
Hyaluronic acid injection is a relatively safe treatment, but there are also serious complication risks such as embolism caused by intravascular injection (skin necrosis, vision impairment). For that reason, careful treatment by a physician with a thorough understanding of anatomy is important. At our clinic, we focus on thorough consultation and appropriate volumes.
Together Menu — Recommended pairings
For comprehensive facial anti-aging care, Botox is also recommended. Combining with thread lift, which supports lax skin with sutures, can support a more natural impression.
Q&A (Frequently asked questions)
- What should I be careful of after treatment?
-
For about a week, the hyaluronic acid is not yet stable in position, so please avoid touching or applying strong stimulation to the area. Also avoid sauna and vigorous exercise for one week.
- How much time should I leave between this and other treatments?
-
Because hyaluronic acid is delivered subcutaneously, in many cases there is no specific need to space it out from other treatments. However, if the skin is irritated or there is a risk of infection, treatment may be postponed.
- Could I end up overfilled and looking puffy?
-
At our clinic, the physician may decline overfilling. Patients who end up overfilled often turn out to have shopped around at multiple clinics for one that would inject as much as they wanted. Our physicians prioritize a natural finish and focus on supporting meaningful change with smaller volumes.
- Can I receive treatment while pregnant?
-
There are no reported issues with treatment during pregnancy, but as it is a cosmetic procedure, we ask patients to refrain as a precaution.
- Are there areas you can avoid if I prefer? Is that possible?
-
Yes, that is possible. We can also leave the plan to us, but if you have specific preferences, we will plan the placement carefully — please feel free to discuss them.
Why patients choose us
I hear good things about hyaluronic acid, but once I start, do I have to keep it up forever?
In recent years, longer-lasting products have become more common, and injection methods have become more efficient. From an anti-aging perspective, it has become easier to start. There is no absolute need to continue, and some effect from collagen production is reported to remain. Please feel free to come in for a consultation first.
Self-pay treatment / drug information (details here)
■ Self-pay treatment
This treatment is self-pay and not covered by Japanese national health insurance. All listed prices are tax-included. For pricing details, please refer to the “Pricing” page.
■ Serious side effects and risks
Vascular embolism (skin necrosis, vision impairment, blindness, stroke): Extremely rare, but may occur if hyaluronic acid is inadvertently injected into an artery. Risk has been reported particularly with injections in the glabella, nose, nasolabial folds, and forehead. Other side effects: bruising, swelling, redness, pain, nodules, the Tyndall effect, asymmetry, allergic reactions, delayed-onset inflammatory nodules, infection, and reactivation of herpes. Results and side effects vary by individual.
■ Products used
Our clinic uses several hyaluronic acid products. We use products approved by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, such as the Juvéderm Vista® series (Allergan), and may also use overseas products that are not approved under Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act (obtained via personal-import by the physician), depending on the indication. Unapproved products are not covered by Japan’s drug side-effect relief system. The product to be used will be explained at consultation.
■ Use abroad
The products we use are selected from those with a track record of approvals such as US FDA, European CE, or Korea MFDS. Specific approval status varies by product, so please confirm at consultation.
■ Not suitable for
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding; those who have previously had an allergic reaction to a hyaluronic acid product; those with infection or inflammation at the treatment site; those taking anticoagulants; those with a history of autoimmune disease; and others.
■ Emergency response
If you experience changes in vision, intense pain, or skin color changes (whitening or purple discoloration) after treatment, please contact our clinic or an emergency medical institution immediately. Our clinic keeps hyaluronidase (an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid) on hand to be prepared for emergencies.
Hyaluronic Acid Filler
PRICE
*This pricing is currently available because we do not invest in paid advertising such as listing ads.
Set pricing available upon request.
| Hyaluronic Acid Filler Pricing | |
|---|---|
| Nasolabial folds, forehead, cheeks, temples, lips, nose / tear-trough / under-eye dark circles, eyelids, chin, etc. (1cc) | Chaeum Premium (Korean-made) Regular price JPY 54,000 → Campaign price JPY 50,000 Allergan Juvéderm Regular price JPY 88,000 → Campaign price JPY 80,000 |
| Forehead, unlimited injection | JPY 250,000 |
*All prices include tax
| Hyaluronic Acid Dissolution (Hyaluronidase) | Price |
|---|---|
| Filler injected at our clinic | JPY 26,500 |
| Filler injected at another clinic | JPY 40,000 |
| Filler Product Information | |
|---|---|
| Chaeum Premium (Korean-made) | The premium series from Chaeum Style. The largest market share in Korea. Available in firmness grades from Chaeum No.1 to No.4. |
| Allergan Juvéderm | Approved by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Available in firmness grades including Volbella, Volift, Voluma, and Volux. Naturally integrating with proven track record. Allergan Official |
Our Doctors
Chief Medical Director / Aesthetic Surgeon
Yuki Takamido, MD
Specialties
Aesthetic surgery / Oculoplastic surgery
Career
2014: Graduated from Mie University School of Medicine
2015: Meitetsu Hospital
2017: Fujita Health University Hospital — Assistant Professor
2020: Founded Flamingo Aesthetic Clinic
2021: Branch director, Shiromoto Clinic Aesthetic Surgery
2021: Co-founded Viviage Clinic (Kokoukai Medical Corporation)
2022: Ace Clinic (Ichibikai Medical Corporation)
2023: Director, Sakae Aesthetic Clinic — Sakae branch
Currently: VIVIAGE ZONNE CLINIC (Kokoukai Medical Corporation)
Areas of expertise
Hyaluronic acid filler, thread lift
Eyelid surgery (lower-eyelid fat removal for dark circles, transcutaneous & transconjunctival Hamra technique, midface lift, double-eyelid surgery, blepharoptosis surgery)
Aesthetic dermatology procedures
Society memberships
Japanese Society of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Japan Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Japanese Society of Aesthetic Dermatology
Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
Days available
Wednesday, Friday (10:00–17:30)
Every other Saturday (please call to confirm)
Director
Minoru Horisawa, MD
Book a Consultation / Contact Us
If you have any concerns, please feel free to reach out.
Our consultation, including the doctor’s examination, is available free of charge.
Hours: Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 10:00–17:30 (Closed Thu, Sun)
T.O Building 4F, 3-33-30 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya — about a 4-minute walk from Yabacho Station