Doctor’s Advice: How Different Are Korean and European Fillers? Dr. Saetawut Lertlukpreecha Explains the Truth About Price and Quality
- Dr. Saetawut Lertlukpreecha
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
Hello, I’m Dr. Saetawut Lertlukpreecha.
Many patients come to me asking…
“Why is this filler brand so cheap? Is it Korean?”
“European fillers are much more expensive—are they worth it?”
“What’s the actual difference in quality?”
Today, I’ll explain in simple terms:
What are the differences between Korean and European fillers, and how should you choose the right one for your face and budget?
What is Filler?
Filler, or dermal filler, usually refers to Hyaluronic Acid (HA).
It’s used to add volume under the skin—under the eyes, temples, smile lines, chin, lips, etc.
This is a medical procedure that should be done by a licensed physician, using only FDA-approved materials.
Comparison: Korean vs European Fillers
Feature | Korean Fillers | European Fillers (e.g. Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero) |
Price | ✅ More affordable (7,000–12,000 THB/cc) | ❌ More expensive (13,000–20,000+ THB/cc) |
Longevity | 4–8 months (up to 12 months for some types) | 12–18 months depending on type |
Production Technology | Basic crosslinking techniques | Advanced technologies (e.g. Vycross, NASHA) |
Texture | Soft to medium texture | Wide range of textures suitable for each area |
Thai FDA Approval | ✅ Several brands (e.g. Neuramis, Hyafilia, Dermalax) | ✅ All major brands approved |
Spread & Shaping | Good spread, but some types are harder to shape | More precise contouring and shape control |
Risk of Lump or Reaction | Low if injected into the right layer | Low, with more extensive clinical research |
Best for | Beginners or simple treatment areas | Long-term results and detailed contouring |
Popular Filler Brands
🇰🇷 Korean:
Neuramis – Soft texture, suitable for under-eye and lips
Hyafilia – Good stability, ideal for temples and chin
Dermalax – Budget-friendly, good for small corrections
🇪🇺 European:
Juvederm (USA/EU) – Voluma, Volift, Volbella for long-lasting and defined results
Restylane (Sweden) – Wide range of textures for all areas
Belotero (Germany) – Smooth integration, ideal for thin skin, under-eye, and fine lines
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Your Need | Doctor’s Recommendation |
Budget-conscious / First-timers | Korean fillers with FDA approval in safe areas |
Want long-lasting results / Facial reshaping | European fillers like Juvederm or Restylane |
Complex areas (e.g. under-eye, bone edges, thin skin) | European fillers for better shape control |
Frequent top-ups / Routine care | Korean fillers may be more cost-effective |
Things to Watch Out For
Always use FDA-approved fillers
Ask to see the real vial before injection (brand name, batch number, expiration date)
Avoid fake or non-dissolvable fillers (like silicone-based materials)
Only get injected by a qualified doctor with in-depth anatomical knowledge
Doctor’s Advice
“Every filler brand has its strengths.
The right choice depends on the area being treated, your budget, and your goals.
I assess each case individually to ensure the results are both beautiful and safe.”
In Summary
Korean and European fillers differ in technology, longevity, and price
There’s no one-size-fits-all “best” filler
The right filler + an experienced doctor = beautiful and safe results
Remember—your face is too valuable to take unnecessary risks.
