Some individuals naturally metabolize hyaluronic acid faster than others, leading to quicker breakdown and absorption of the filler material. Additionally, factors such as age, genetics, and overall health can influence how quickly the body breaks down hyaluronic acid.
Over time, as facial movement increases in areas like the lips or cheeks, it causes the filler to break down and dissolve at a quicker rate. This makes the filler disappear faster in more active areas of the face. So how long do dermal fillers last?
People with higher metabolisms will experience shorter filler results because their bodies will break the filler compound down faster than those with slower metabolisms. The same goes for other treatments such as BOTOX® and Dysport®.
Types of Dermal Fillers and Their Lifespan
These fillers are traditionally thought to last between 6 to 18 months, depending on the specific product and the area treated. They dissolve gradually over time as the body naturally metabolizes the hyaluronic acid.
AGEING & FACIAL CHANGES: As people age, their facial structure changes, which can make previously placed fillers look unnatural or misplaced. Dissolving fillers allows for a fresh start, accommodating the natural ageing process more gracefully.
Increase your water intake: Hydration keeps wrinkles at bay and can help maintain filler injections. Drinking water throughout the day can hydrate your skin and slow the process of breaking down the filler.
EXTRA ZINC
Some studies have shown that Botox efficacy is linked to zinc levels within the body. Also, many individuals tend to have a slight zinc deficiency. Regularly taking a zinc supplement after your Botox treatment may prolong the anti-aging effects.
In the 24-48 hours following your filler injections, it's recommended to avoid active cosmeceutical products such as AHAs, retinol, and vitamin C, as well as oil-based makeup. These products can potentially cause irritation or interfere with the settling period of the filler material under your skin.
The three fillers that tend to last the longest are Juvederm Voluma, Radiesse, and Sculptra. Juvederm Voluma is used on the cheeks, and the acid used can last up to 2 years.
On average, hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvéderm® and Restylane® last for 6-12 months before naturally integrating into the body. We recommend patients get touch-up filler injections every 6-9 months to maintain full results, though some patients are happy with filler treatments every 9-12 months.
“Pillow face” occurs when too much filler is injected into areas like the cheeks, nasolabial folds (the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth), lips, and under-eye area. This repeated overfilling can result in a bloated, round appearance that looks far from natural.
Your Body's Natural Metabolism
Faster metabolism means faster breakdown of the filler. So, if you're someone who's always on the move, working out a lot, or just has a naturally quick metabolism, you might notice your lip fillers don't last as long.
The extra hormones that your body produces when you're stressed can actually cause filler to break down more quickly, deflating your pout ahead of schedule.
Hyaluronidase is highly effective in reversing filler treatments and restoring a natural appearance. In the filler dissolving process, hyaluronidase is injected into the areas where the unwanted filler is present.
Dermal Filler Post-Operative Instructions
AVOID: Aspirin, Motrin, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A., Vitamin E, or other essential fatty acids at least 3 days after treatment.
Regularly apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear protective clothing to help extend the life of your fillers. Sun exposure can break down fillers more quickly. Maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoid smoking to improve your skin's overall health, enhancing and prolonging the effects of dermal fillers.
Areas of the face that experience more movement, such as the lips and around the mouth, tend to dissolve filler faster. This is because the constant muscle activity in these areas can metabolize the filler material more quickly than in less active areas.
Many people have a slight zinc deficiency, so it's suggest you begin taking zinc supplements when beginning regular Botox treatments to prolong the anti-aging effects. The benefits of injectables (like many other cosmetic treatments) will last longer for individuals who properly take care of their skin.
Drink plenty of water. HA based fillers such as Juvederm work by using the water naturally stored in our tissues, by drinking plenty of water after having a dermal filler treatment it helps the filler hold its chaos and last for longer. Juvederm actually attracts water from to keep your filler looking fresh and full.
While most patients are satisfied with the results of dermal fillers, some find the change too drastic or have other reasons and would want to undo it. Using injectables like dermal filler is not a perfect science, and some patients react differently to the treatment, which is why dissolvers exist.
Sometimes, if too much filler is injected in the face over years of time, if the filler is ever removed or dissolved, the skin is unable to revert back to its original forms. This can potentially leave the skin looser and less firm that before filler was injected, ultimately leading to premature aging of the skin.
The decision to stop using dermal fillers is personal and can be due to the desire for a more natural look or dissatisfaction with previous treatments. Excessive filler use can lead to tissue integration and “microcystic expansion effects,” causing potential aesthetic concerns over time.