How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
The demand for dermal fillers has significantly increased around the world as a non-surgical way of rejuvenating the skin. Many individuals utilise dermal filler treatments to achieve a more youthful appearance by decreasing fine lines and wrinkles, restoring volume to the face, and reshaping facial features. The most frequent question asked by those considering dermal fillers prior to having treatment is, “How long do dermal fillers usually last?”
The answer to this question is that dermal fillers typically have an average duration of effect of six to eighteen months; however, it is important to remember that this is only an average and that individual results may vary depending upon a person’s physiology and lifestyle. This article has been written in plain and simple language to enable readers to confidently make informed decisions regarding dermal filler treatments.
What Are Dermal Fillers, and How Do They Work?
Dermal fillers are a gel-like, pliable material injected under the skin. They are used mainly to restore volume, smooth out fine lines, and enhance facial structure. Most newer forms of filler contain a naturally occurring substance known as hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the human body and helps to maintain hydration and plumpness in the skin.
The way filler works is by supporting the skin from below. The filler will fill in any voids created by lost volume due to ageing.
Average Duration of Dermal Fillers
In general, dermal fillers normally last anywhere from 6 months to 1.5 years. The duration of the results depends on individual factors, placement, and the specific product used. After the initial treatment, it may take a little longer for the filler to wear off, as the patient has had a brief period to become accustomed to the filler. After multiple treatments, most patients report that their results last longer.
Since dermal fillers are metabolised slowly by the body, as the filler breaks down, the patient’s face will gradually return to its original state, thus avoiding any drastic changes and allowing for more natural-looking results.
The Type of Filler and Its Effect on Longevity
The longevity of fillers is greatly influenced by the type of filler. Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most commonly chosen and widely accepted filler product on the market today. The reason for such popularity is because they give a desired physical outcome that looks very natural. The average lifespan for a hyaluronic acid filler is between 6 and 18 months, depending on the placement and depth of the tissue being treated.
Some fillers are very thick and designed for areas that need a lot of support underneath the surface, such as the cheeks, jawline, and chin. Due to the increased ability to provide firm structural support underneath the surface, thick fillers will typically provide longer-lasting results than traditional fillers. There are also certain fillers that have been developed to stimulate your own body’s natural collagen production, providing results that may last for up to 2 years. The type of filler your provider recommends for your specific skin condition and aesthetic goals will be determined based on individual factors.
Placement of Filler and How It Affects Results
Where the filler is placed on the face is very important and plays a significant role in how long the filler will last, because the more you use an area, the faster the filler will fade. Examples of high-use areas of the face include the lips, which are constantly in motion when we talk, eat, and smile, providing an average lifespan of approximately 12 weeks for fillers placed in that area.
The cheeks, jawline, and chin that generally have very little movement usually retain the filler for longer periods of time as compared to the high-usage lip area. Fillers placed under the eyes have an average lifespan of about 12 months and may require replacing much sooner than in other areas of the face.
Age and Condition of the Skin
How old you are and the quality of your skin will also determine how long dermal fillers will last. Younger people will typically have more collagen and elasticity in their skin than older people. This will allow the filler to stay in place longer. As you age, your collagen levels decrease substantially, and as a result, your skin will become thinner, and therefore fillers will fade faster.
Those people who have healthy skin generally experience longer-lasting results, as hydrated skin provides a better environment for fillers than does dry or damaged skin. Therefore, it is essential to ensure proper skincare before and after receiving treatment.
How the Body’s Metabolism Relates to the Longevity of Dermal Fillers
Everyone has a unique metabolic rate. If your body metabolises substances quickly, your fillers will not last as long as someone whose body is slower at metabolising substances. Therefore, someone who has a high activity level or has a very fast metabolic rate will usually find that their filler fades more quickly.
However, this does not mean that filler treatments will not be effective for them; they would only require touch-up appointments more often than others. An experienced practitioner will take these factors into consideration when scheduling treatments.
The Effect of a Lifestyle on the Length of Time That Filler Lasts
The way you live your life has a huge effect on how long dermal fillers will last in your skin. If you smoke, you will be reducing blood flow to your skin, which may also accelerate the breakdown of the filler. Excessive sun exposure can also damage the dermis.
When Will You See Final Results?
The best way to know when you will be able to see your final results after treatment with dermal fillers is to ask your dermal filler provider. Many people notice that their results from dermal fillers can be visible soon after getting treated. However, mild redness or swelling may develop in the area where the filler was injected and should settle down over the next two to three days. You will see the final results of dermal fillers after they have fully settled into the skin. Most people typically receive their final results for all areas of the body treated with dermal fillers within one week after the initial treatment; however, lip fillers may take up to two weeks to fully settle into the skin.
Maintenance and Follow-Up Treatments
Since dermal fillers are not permanent, many people opt to have maintenance and follow-up treatments. Many individuals also receive touch-up treatments before their filler completely fades away. Touch-up treatments assist patients in maintaining great results over time by preventing noticeable volume loss. Additionally, patients will also receive follow-up treatments to help their skin train to retain volume better over time. Your dermal filler provider will be able to provide you with a recommended treatment plan based on your personal goals and budget. Maintenance treatments will usually take less time, use less product, and cost less than your first treatment with dermal fillers.
Safety and Natural Appearance
If your dermal fillers are administered by a trained, licensed professional, there should not be any safety issues associated with getting dermal fillers. The vast majority of side effects from dermal fillers are mild and temporary; the most common side effects include swelling and tenderness in the treated area. Serious complications from dermal fillers are relatively rare when administered properly. Most people can achieve a very natural look using dermal fillers.
Do Dermal Fillers Have Value?
In short, for most individuals, dermal fillers are indeed valuable. Unlike surgical procedures requiring substantial downtime and recovery time post-op, fillers provide visible improvements in less than an hour on average, allowing most patients to return to their daily routine immediately.
About Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center
At Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center, dermal filler treatments are done with care and precision to help you get refreshed skin that is full of life. Connect with our team to learn more.