Hollow temples can make the face look narrower at the top, older or more tired. Here is how temple filler and collagen stimulators restore that volume, what they cost in Seoul and what to check for safety.
Temple filler restores volume in hollow temples using hyaluronic acid (HA) gel for an immediate result, or a collagen stimulator such as Lenisna or Sculptra for gradual, longer-lasting volume. Filling the temples smooths the curve from forehead to cheekbone, which can make the face look softer and more balanced. HA treatment takes about 20–30 minutes, swelling lasts 1–3 days and results usually last about 12–18 months. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, HA filler starts from ₩150,000 per cc and Lenisna from ₩490,000 per vial (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
Why do temples become hollow?
The temples sit on the sides of the forehead, between the outer eyebrow and the hairline. In youth they are gently full or flat, so the face flows smoothly from the forehead to the cheekbones. With age, the fat and muscle in the temple thin, and bone changes slightly, so a hollow appears. Low body fat, intense exercise and genetics can make temples look hollow at a younger age too.
Hollow temples make the upper face look narrower and the cheekbones and brow bone more prominent. They can also pull the outer brow down slightly, adding to a tired look. In Korea, smooth temples are part of the soft, oval face shape many people prefer, so temple volume is a common request from both younger and older patients. See our temple area page and facial volume loss.
What are the options for temple volume?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) filler
HA filler gives an immediate result. It is usually placed deep, on the bone beneath the temple muscle, or in a more superficial layer with a blunt cannula. HA can be adjusted and dissolved if needed, which makes it a good first choice for many people. Read more on our dermal filler page.
Collagen stimulators
Lenisna(Juvelook Volume, PDLLA) and Sculptra(PLLA) stimulate your own collagen over two to three months. The change is gradual and natural, and can last longer than HA. They cannot be dissolved, so they are planned carefully, and you may need more than one session.
| Option | Onset | Typical duration | Sessions | Reversible? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HA filler | Immediate | About 12–18 months | Usually one | Yes |
| Lenisna (PDLLA) | 2–3 months | About 12–24 months | Usually 1–2 | No |
| Sculptra (PLLA) | 2–3 months | Up to about 2 years after a series | Usually 2–3 | No |
Compare the two collagen stimulators in Lenisna vs Sculptra.
Benefits of restoring temple volume
- A softer face shape. Filling the dip at the temple creates a smoother outline from forehead to cheekbone, which reads as a more oval face.
- A less tired look. Hollow temples are a subtle sign of aging and weight loss; restoring them often makes people look rested without anyone being able to say why.
- Better balance with the cheeks. When only the cheeks are treated, hollow temples can look more obvious. Treating both keeps the upper and middle face in proportion.
- Subtle brow support. Deep temple volume can give the outer brow slight support in some people, though this effect is modest and varies.
- Small amounts, visible change. Because hollowing is easy to see in profile and three-quarter views, a relatively small volume often makes a noticeable difference.
Temple filler is not a lifting treatment. If the outer face is sagging, adding volume alone may not be enough, and your doctor may suggest combining it with a lifting device. The goal is to restore the shape you had, or a natural version of it, rather than create fullness that was never there.
Who is a good candidate for temple filler?
Usually a good fit
- Visible hollowing or a dip at the temples
- A narrow upper face or prominent brow bone
- People wanting a softer, more oval face shape
- Those already treating the cheeks, for a balanced result
Talk to the doctor first
- Frequent headaches or migraines in the temple area
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding or autoimmune conditions
- Previous permanent filler or fat grafting in the temples
- Active skin infection or recent procedures nearby
What happens on treatment day
- English consultation. The doctor examines your temples from the front and side, discusses HA versus a collagen stimulator, and agrees the product, volume and price.
- Marking and numbing. Injection points are marked and numbing cream is applied; HA fillers also contain lidocaine.
- Injection. Filler is placed deep on the bone with a needle, or in a higher layer with a blunt cannula. You may feel pressure and hear a slight crunching sound when filler is placed near bone, which is normal.
- Massage and review. The doctor smooths the area and checks symmetry.
- Aftercare. You receive written instructions in English. For Sculptra, you will also be shown how to massage the area at home.
Temple filler results timeline
| When | HA filler | Collagen stimulator |
|---|---|---|
| Day 0 | Immediate fullness with some swelling | Temporary fullness from the carrier fluid |
| Week 1 | Swelling settles; tenderness when chewing | Initial fullness fades |
| Weeks 2–4 | Final result visible | Little visible change yet |
| Months 2–3 | Stable | Gradual volume as collagen builds |
Because the temples are a relatively still area, HA filler often lasts well there. See Lenisna results for a collagen stimulator timeline.
Is temple filler safe? Risks and side effects
The temple contains several important blood vessels, including branches of the superficial temporal artery and veins. Temple filler is considered a moderate-risk area and needs a doctor who knows the layers well.
- Common: swelling, tenderness and bruising; aching when chewing for a few days because the temple muscle is involved in chewing.
- Less common: unevenness, visible product or lumps. HA can be dissolved; collagen stimulators can form nodules if not placed and massaged correctly.
- Uncommon: headaches for a few days after treatment.
- Rare but serious: vascular occlusion, which can cause skin damage and, in very rare cases, vision problems. Sudden severe pain, blanching or visual change need emergency care.
Read side effects and when to contact us.
How much does temple filler cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Option | Details | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Korean HA filler, 1cc | Locally made hyaluronic acid filler | ₩150,000 |
| Korean HA filler, 2cc | Often enough for both temples | ₩280,000 |
| Restylane or Juvéderm, 1cc | Imported HA filler | ₩290,000–₩350,000 |
| Lenisna, 1 vial | Often enough for both temples | ₩490,000 |
| Sculptra, 1 vial | Mild volume loss in one or two zones | ₩590,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. See the dermal filler price page and Lenisna price page.
Recovery and planning around your Seoul trip
- First 24–48 hours: avoid pressing on the temples, tight hats, headbands or sunglasses that press on the area.
- First 2–3 days: skip saunas, jjimjilbang, intense exercise and alcohol; soft food helps if chewing aches.
- Book ahead: send photos and dates through our consultation form; avoid your arrival day.
- Getting here: Dernia is near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
- Collagen stimulator follow-up: if a second session is needed four to eight weeks later, ask whether it fits a return visit or can be continued at home.
Flying home? Most people can fly one to two days after HA temple filler. If you choose a collagen stimulator, the result appears after you are home, so ask about follow-up timing. See flying after Botox and fillers.
Frequently asked questions
How much filler do temples need?
Most people need about 1–2cc of HA filler for both temples, though deeper hollowing may need more.
How long does temple filler last?
HA filler in the temples usually lasts about 12–18 months. Collagen stimulators such as Lenisna can last about 12–24 months.
Is temple filler painful?
Most people feel pressure rather than sharp pain. Numbing cream and lidocaine help, and chewing may ache for a few days afterward.
HA filler or Lenisna for temples?
HA gives an immediate, reversible result. Lenisna builds volume gradually and can last longer but cannot be dissolved. Your doctor will advise based on your goals and timeline.
How much is temple filler in Seoul?
At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, Korean HA filler is ₩150,000 per cc or ₩280,000 for 2cc, and Lenisna starts from ₩490,000 per vial, excluding 10% VAT.
Is temple filler risky?
The temple has important blood vessels, so it is a moderate-risk area. A doctor who knows the anatomy and uses careful technique reduces the risk.
Thinking about temple filler in Seoul?
Send us photos and your travel dates. A doctor assesses your temples in person and explains whether HA filler or a collagen stimulator suits your face and schedule.
Book a consultation View 2026 pricesRelated reading
This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.