Hollow temples quietly make a face look tired and gaunt — and almost nobody thinks to look there.
What is the best treatment for hollow temples? Dermal filler restores temple volume immediately and reversibly, while biostimulators rebuild it gradually over months; the temple is a high-risk area with important vessels, so it should only be treated by an experienced medical injector.
Why temples hollow
Fat and bone loss
The temple loses fat volume and underlying bone support with age, creating a concave area at the side of the forehead.
Other contributors
Significant weight loss, intense endurance training and genetics can all accelerate temple hollowing, sometimes well before other signs of ageing.
- Age-related fat and bone volume loss
- Significant or rapid weight loss
- Intense endurance exercise
- Genetics and natural facial structure
- Cumulative sun damage thinning the skin
Why it matters more than people realise
It reads as tired or unwell
Hollow temples narrow the upper face and create shadowing, which makes the whole face look gaunt and older even when everything else looks well.
It affects the brow too
Loss of temple support contributes to the brow sitting lower, adding to a heavy-eyed appearance.
Filler for temples
Immediate and reversible
Dermal filler restores the concavity directly, with results visible immediately and the reassurance that hyaluronic acid can be dissolved if needed.
What to expect
Results typically last around 12 to 18 months in this relatively still area, often longer than in mobile areas like the lips.
Biostimulators for temples
Gradual rebuild
Collagen stimulators suit the temple well, rebuilding volume diffusely over months for a very natural change.
The trade-off
They are not reversible, so planning matters — see how to choose between them.
Options compared
| Option | Result | Longevity | Reversible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyaluronic acid filler | Immediate | ~12–18 months | Yes |
| Biostimulator | Over 2–3 months | Up to ~2 years | No |
| Fat transfer | Surgical option | Variable | No |
Most people start with reversible filler in this area.
Why experience is essential here
Important anatomy
The temple contains significant vessels and nerves, so injection depth and placement must be precise — this is not a beginner area.
Complication awareness
The medical literature notes filler complications, though usually minor, require prompt knowledgeable management — which matters more in anatomically complex areas.
What a good result looks like
Subtle, not full
The aim is to soften the hollow so the upper face looks rested, not to create a rounded or bulging temple.
Balanced with the rest
Temple treatment often works best alongside cheek support, since the upper and mid-face read together — see treating sagging cheeks.
Preparing for and recovering from temple treatment
Preparation and aftercare:
- Have a consultation to confirm hollowing and discuss product choice.
- Choose reversible filler if this is your first treatment in the area.
- Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning supplements for 24–48 hours before, where appropriate.
- Avoid pressing or massaging the area afterwards.
- Avoid heat, sun and heavy exercise for the first day.
- Report severe pain, skin colour change or vision changes immediately.
Temple treatment at LIV Clinic Koh Samui
At LIV Clinic, temple treatment is doctor-led by Dr. Narathai, using filler or biostimulators as appropriate. Book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best treatment for hollow temples?
Dermal filler restores temple volume immediately and reversibly, while biostimulators rebuild it gradually over months. The temple is a high-risk area needing an experienced medical injector.
Why do temples hollow with age?
The temple loses fat volume and underlying bone support over time. Significant weight loss, intense endurance training and genetics can all accelerate it, sometimes early.
How long does temple filler last?
Typically around 12 to 18 months, often longer than in mobile areas like the lips, because the temple moves relatively little.
Is temple filler risky?
It requires precision because the temple contains significant vessels and nerves. In experienced medical hands it is routine, but it is not an area for an inexperienced injector.
Does treating temples help the rest of my face?
Often. Restoring temple support widens the upper face, reduces shadowing and can help the brow sit better, so the whole face looks more rested.
Should I use filler or a biostimulator?
Filler if you want an immediate, reversible result, particularly for a first treatment. A biostimulator if you prefer a gradual, diffuse rebuild and accept it is not reversible.
Safety and consultation
Temple filler is a medical procedure and, like any injectable treatment, carries some risk — common temporary effects can include redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness, and less common reactions are possible. Results vary from person to person, and no specific outcome can be promised. This article is general information, not medical advice.
At LIV Clinic, every treatment begins with an in-person assessment by Dr. Narathai Vichienkalayarut, M.D., who reviews your skin, medical history and goals before recommending a personalized plan. Book a consultation to find out whether this treatment suits you.
LIV Clinic — “Live Your Life Young”
Doctor-led aesthetic and wellness clinic on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, serving both international visitors and local residents.
Koh Samui (Bophut): 1/63 Thaweeratpakdee Rd, Bo Put, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320 · Tel 065-996-4242
Koh Phangan: 116/16 Moo 1, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani 84280 · Tel 093-254-5259
LINE: @Livclinic · Book a consultation
Explore our dermal filler and Botox and wrinkle services.
ฆสพ.สฎ. 78/2567