How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular solutions to reverse aging signs – wrinkles and volume loss. The gel-like substances used in these fillers correct the contour and leave facial features more defined. They are injected in areas like lips, cheeks, and under the eyes to add volume and around the mouth and nose to treat wrinkles. Fillers can also rejuvenate the back of the hands.
The treatment has gained popularity because of non-surgical solutions. It is minimally invasive and relatively painless. When performed by certified professionals and with quality products, the treatment leaves favorable results with minimum risks and complications.
What affects the longevity of dermal fillers?
The results dermal fillers leave last based on the following factors: product type, the injection area, the depth of the treatment, and the patient's metabolism.
What are the lifespans of different dermal fillers in our body?
Dermal fillers used in medical aesthetic procedures can be of synthetic compositions or naturally occurring. The density and specific features they have determine the longevity of their effects. In general, thicker fillers are used in more in-depth treatments, and the deeper the injection, the more lasting the effects can be.
Here's an overview of the types of fillers and their effects:
- Hyaluronic Acid lasts anywhere from 6 months to over a year, with some more advanced formulations lasting up to 18 months or longer. Brands like Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero are among the best dermal filler brands, offering hyaluronic-based solutions tailored to diverse aesthetic needs.
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite has longer-lasting results spanning from 12 to 18 months. Radiesse is a recognized filler of Calcium Hydroxylapatite type.
- Polylactic acid (PLLA), known as Sculptra, produces results that become visible gradually but last longer than Hyaluronic Acid and Calcium Hydroxylapatite, often up to 2 years or more.
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is semi-permanent, with results becoming apparent in a few months.
Here’s what you can expect after undergoing the procedures using the following products:
| Brand Name | Durability | Filler Type |
| Juvederm Voluma | 24 months with a touch-up treatment | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Juvederm Ultra | 12 months with touch-up treatments | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Juvederm Volbella | 12 months | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Restylane Defyne | 12 months, with touch-up treatments | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Restylane Refyne | 12 months, with touch-up treatments | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Restylane Lyft | 12 months, with touch-up treatments | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Radiesse | 12 months | Calcium Hydroxylapatite |
| Sculptra | 24 months and more | Polylactic acid (PLLA) |
How long do different areas maintain dermal fillers?
Understanding the nuances of how different areas respond to dermal fillers highlights the importance of tailored aftercare practices. Just as the nose and cheeks may hold onto fillers longer due to less movement, adopting specific dermal fillers aftercare measures can further enhance this longevity. Similarly, for areas like the lips, where fillers may metabolize more quickly, effective aftercare becomes even more crucial in extending the visible benefits of the treatment.
- How long do under-eye fillers last? The lower eyelid is one of the places that hold the fillers long because of its limited movements. The treatment improves dark circles and leaves its results from 6 to 18 months.
- How long do cheek fillers last? Depending on the type of filler, it takes anywhere between 6 and 18 months until the effects of cheek filler treatment wear off.
- How long do nose fillers last? Nose fillers are known as non-surgical rhinoplasty, usually lasting 12 to 18 months. The procedure suits those looking for minor changes to their nose profile.
- How long do chin fillers last? Chin fillers take up to one year and, in some cases, 2 years to dissolve. The treatment augments the chin and creates a more defined jawline.
- How long do lip fillers last? Lip fillers are the most popular types used by people of different ages, especially young groups. They add volume, and their effect is visible for about 12 to 18 months.
How does metabolism affect the lifespan of a filler?
Dermal fillers, made from materials like hyaluronic acid, gradually get absorbed by our bodies because of their biodegradable nature. The speed at which the process happens differs from person to person. These substances can wear off quicker in individuals with faster metabolism than in individuals with slower metabolic rates. Similarly, the same reason makes athletes experience the disappearance of the effects sooner than people who are relatively less active.
Tips to make dermal fillers last longer
Regardless of the factors influencing dermal fillers' results, you can prolong their effects. Follow the tips below for optimal effectiveness:
- Have the treatment under board-certified practitioners: A qualified specialist can reduce the risks of complications and provide the results that you want.
- Buy high-quality products: reliable dermal filler sold by reputable resellers and online platforms can ensure safety and better results.
- Have maintenance treatments:Follow your practitioner's personalized treatment plan to maintain the appearance you've had since your first appointment.
- Maintain your skin health: Have a balanced diet and a personalized skincare routine to prolong the effect of dermal fillers. Bad habits such as smoking can have undesired results on your treatments.
- Avoid sun exposure: wear broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage, especially for two weeks after receiving the treatment.
Ensuring the use of high-quality aesthetic needles, cannulas, or PDO threads during your treatment can significantly enhance the lasting effects of dermal fillers, contributing to a smoother and more satisfying post-treatment experience.
Conclusion
The results that dermal fillers produce last based on the nature of the product, treatment depth and location, as well as the patient's metabolism. Knowing that some dermal fillers are biodegradable and wear off as your body metabolizes them is enough to understand the necessity of maintenance treatments. Following your aesthetic practitioner's personalized plan can help you maintain the look and results you want for a longer period of time. The frequency of the appointments your practitioner schedules is based on your goals, expectations, and medical history. Head to our useful reads and find dermal fillers explained in more detail.
FAQ
The skin returns to the form it had before the treatment.
Individuals start receiving treatments based on their needs and medical background. While some people may start showing aging signs early and get filler treatment in their mid-twenties, some might get their first injection in their 80s.
No. Fillers are made of degradable materials that mostly dissolve and get metabolized in 6 to 18 months.
If you're happy with the results you've had from your first treatment, then maintenance treatments are necessary in order to maintain the look and result.
