Filler Fatigue & Skin Tightening: Dr. Rishi Chopra Reveals What's Next in Aesthetics

In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi talks with Dr. Rishi Chopra, a New York–based dermatologist recognized as the Pfizer Rising Derm Star of 2021. They discuss filler fatigue, the shift toward skin tightening treatments, and new innovations in regenerative aesthetics such as Avava laser and PDRN injectables. Dr. Chopra shares insights on emerging devices, collagen banking, and his go-to treatments for natural, long-lasting results. Timeline of what was discussed: 00:00 – Introduction 01:05 – Meet Dr. Rishi Chopra 02:00 – Why patients are developing "filler fear" 03:10 – How overfilling and poor training led to unnatural results 04:05 – The missing link: skin tightening vs. constant filling 05:00 – Introducing Avava, the first laser that tightens and lifts skin 06:00 – How Avava compares to Thermage, Softwave, and Ulthera 06:50 – The science behind Avava's energy delivery & collagen stimulation 07:45 – Visible results: why Dr. Chopra calls it the "Benjamin Button" laser 08:20 – Downtime, safety, and results for different skin types 08:48 – Transition to regenerative injectables & biostimulators 09:00 – What is PDRN (salmon DNA) and how it works for skin rejuvenation 10:05 – FDA status and why Korea is leading in regenerative aesthetics 11:00 – Comparing PDRN, exosomes, and PRP 11:55 – Long-term collagen regeneration & skin quality improvements 12:45 – Discussion on SkinVive and its subtle hydration benefits 13:40 – Biostimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse) for natural rejuvenation 14:45 – Addressing safety & facelift myths around biostimulators 15:55 – Rapid-fire Q&A with Dr. Chopra 16:10 – Favorite treatment right now: Avava laser 1 6:50 – Downtime and results for all skin types 17:30 – Quick lifestyle Q&A: Hamptons or cabin? Brooklyn summers? 18:25 – Research vs. hands-on dermatology 19:10 – Where to find Dr. Rishi Chopra 19:35 – Dr. Azi's closing thoughts & outro ______________________________________________________________ Follow Rishi Chopra on Instagram: @rishichopramd Book an appointment with Dr. Chopra: www.unionderm.com/doctors/dr-rishi-chopra/ Dr. Rishi Chopra is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and the 2021 Pfizer Rising Derm Star. He specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology with a focus on injectables, regenerative aesthetics, and laser innovation. Dr. Chopra practices at UnionDerm, where he's known for his evidence-based approach, cutting-edge techniques, and natural-looking results. ______________________________________________________________ Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email [email protected]. Shop skincare at https://azimdskincare.com and learn more about the practice at https://www.lajollalaserderm.com/ The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice. © Azadeh Shirazi, MD FAAD.