Marionette Lines: Fill or Regenerate | Gangnam Seoul, Korea Dermatology Clinic Guide

In the consultation room, I often get asked, "Is Filler or Radiesse better for marionette lines?"

This question asks which of the two procedures is better.

When I receive this question, I first press on the wrinkles with my hand.

This is because the answer changes depending on the depth.

Take just 1 minute to read this.

Marionette lines are the lines that extend from the corners of the mouth to the chin.

They are a common area for improvement requests because they can make one look older or give a stern impression.

However, even though they are called by the same name, their condition falls into two categories.

One is when the furrow is already deeply etched, and the line is distinct.

The other is when the furrow is still shallow, and the overall elasticity has decreased, blurring the contour.

This is why recommendations seem to vary from clinic to clinic.

It is often not a matter of superiority of the procedure but a difference in how the observer assesses the stage.

Filler immediately fills the wrinkle area by injecting a substance.

Since the line smooths out the moment it is injected, results can be seen immediately.

However, because it is a filling method, it is important to control the amount and location, as excessive amounts can lead to an unnatural appearance.

Radiesse injects a calcium component to induce the skin to create new collagen.

Immediately after injection, it fills to some extent with a gel component, and then over several months, collagen is produced, leading to changes in elasticity and skin texture.

In summary, Filler is a filling procedure, and Radiesse is a revitalizing procedure.

(※ Effects and reactions may vary depending on the individual's skin condition, and suitability for the procedure is determined through consultation with medical staff.)

First, the depth of the wrinkle.

If the furrow is already deeply etched, an approach that immediately fills and smooths the line may be needed first.

This is because collagen regeneration alone takes time to fill deep furrows.

Second, the desired speed of change.

If you want noticeable changes because an event or schedule is approaching, immediate filling is the right choice.

If you want to improve the skin's own elasticity, even if it takes time, regeneration may be more suitable.

There are also cases where both are performed together.

This method involves filling deep furrows and addressing surrounding elasticity with regeneration, but this judgment is difficult to make by visual inspection alone.

When pressing on the wrinkle with your hand, you need to check whether the furrow smooths out or if the entire skin moves together.

If you are curious about the progress of Radiesse, it may be helpful to also read When Radiesse Effects Appear.

Even with the same procedure name, if the target is different, the reviews will vary.

Reviews from those who received only a regenerative procedure for deep furrows and those who received an immediate filling procedure for shallow stages will be diametrically opposed.

Therefore, if you only look at reviews, "Filler is better" and "Radiesse is better" will coexist.

Both are true, but they are truths about each individual's condition.

It is faster to make a judgment by first establishing the two axes: your furrow depth and desired speed.

Which is better for marionette lines, Filler or Radiesse?

It's not a matter of superiority but of condition. For deeply etched furrows, an immediate filling method may be suitable, while for shallow stages with accompanying loss of elasticity, a method that induces collagen regeneration may be more appropriate.

Can I receive both procedures together?

Sometimes, both are performed by filling deep furrows and addressing surrounding elasticity with regeneration. However, the distribution varies depending on the wrinkle condition, so it is best to confirm during a consultation.

When do changes from Radiesse appear?

Immediately after injection, it fills to some extent with a gel component, and then over several months, collagen is produced, and changes in elasticity and skin texture can be expected. The timing and extent may vary individually.

I'm worried that Filler might look unnatural.

Because it is a filling method, excessive amounts or incorrect placement can look awkward. Sometimes, it is approached by dividing the target amount and adjusting it rather than filling it all at once.

How long do bruising or swelling last after the procedure?

Both procedures may cause temporary bruising, swelling, or a foreign body sensation. The duration and extent vary depending on the treated area and individual skin condition.

The mouth area is constantly moving while speaking and eating, so swelling may be more noticeable than in other areas.

It is advisable to avoid irritating foods or excessive massage for a few days.

For immediate filling procedures, the shape can be checked the next day, but for regenerative procedures, the initial gel volume subsides and then rises again, so it should be observed on a monthly basis for accurate assessment.

The cost is not determined by product volume alone.

It varies depending on whether only one side is treated or both, whether marionette lines are treated along with nasolabial folds or anterior cheeks, and whether both procedures are performed concurrently.

Whether pre-diagnosis and post-procedure care are included also affects the cost.

For an accurate cost, it is best to provide guidance after a consultation to directly assess the depth of the wrinkles.

O.N Clinic is conveniently located near Gangnam Station, making it easily accessible by subway.

Before your visit, you can comfortably inquire about any questions via Chat Now for Consultation, and through a consultation, you can coordinate your wrinkle condition, treatment direction, and appointment schedule.

The most accurate way to determine which method is right for you is to confirm the depth of the furrow during an in-person consultation.

Written by: Dr. Oh Seung-min (Chief Director of O.N Clinic, graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine, Academic Committee Chairman of the Korean Society for Laser Dermatology and Hair). More details about his background can be found in Medical Staff Introduction. First published: 2026-08-14 / Last reviewed: 2026-08-15

This article is for general informational purposes only, and appropriate treatment and results may vary depending on individual conditions.