If you know anything about injectable fillers, then you know they can last several months. In fact, many patients choose to have refresher treatments once the effects have worn off. With that said, there are some perks to the temporary nature of fillers. For instance, it’s possible to try different fillers and see which one works best.
So how long do fillers actually last? Knowing what to expect from different treatments can help you make an informed decision about which filler is right for you.
Why Are Fillers Temporary?
Soft tissue fillers are most commonly formulated using hyaluronic acid, a substance that is found naturally in the skin. Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated and lends volume to the face and skin. That’s why hyaluronic acid fillers are used to fill in wrinkles, replace lost volume, and even augment the lips. Because hyaluronic acid is a natural substance, it gradually breaks down in the body, eventually disappearing altogether. Once this happens, patients must undergo another treatment to maintain the results. Different factors affect how quickly fillers break down, but most formulas don’t last beyond a year or two.
What Affects the Longevity of Facial Fillers?
Facial fillers are quickly becoming one of the most popular cosmetic treatments available, and with that popularity has come a large range of choices. Different fillers optimized for lip enhancement, cheek rejuvenation and more have come onto the market, each with different longevity estimates. This is why it’s important to talk to your plastic surgeon about how often you can expect to need refresher treatments. Aside from the formula itself, other factors can have an impact on fillers, including lifestyle and the treatment area. For example, high-movement areas of the face (such as the lips) are more likely to need re-treatment sooner than low-movement areas.
Average Longevity of Facial Fillers
Though there are many different types of fillers, most treatments last for at least 6 months. At the top end, the average is around 12 months, though there are a few treatments that are expected to last up to 2 years or more. Here’s a basic breakdown of how long different fillers last:
Up to 6 Months
Basic hyaluronic acid fillers typically last up to about 6 months, sometimes longer. Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero are all in this category, and are typically used for wrinkle treatment and facial rejuvenation.
6 to 12 Months
More specialized fillers are emerging on the market, including longer-lasting lip fillers. These fillers, which include Juvederm Volbella and Restylane Silk, have been optimized for high-movement areas of the face and are designed to last as long as possible in the lips.
12 Months to 2 Years
Some newer hyaluronic acid fillers are lasting longer than ever, like Juvederm Voluma. Voluma is formulated specifically for the cheek area and it generally lasts for up to two years, much longer than other hyaluronic acid formulas. Another filler that tends to be long-lasting is Radiesse, an anti-aging filler that typically lasts up to 18 months. Radiesse is made from calcium hydroxyapatite, which is found naturally in teeth and bones. Radiesse works by encouraging the body’s own collagen production, which results in long-lasting rejuvenation.
Which Filler is Right for You?
Remember, the filler that’s right for you isn’t always the one that lasts the longest. There are many factors to consider when choosing your facial rejuvenation treatment. You’ll be able to discuss your goals during your consultation with your plastic surgeon, and this is a great time to ask any questions you have.
If you need recommendations on which treatment is right for you, then it may be time to call Dr. Edward Buckingham at Buckingham Center in Austin, TX, for an appointment to discuss your options. Dr. Buckingham is an experienced, board certified facial plastic surgeon with the skill and artistic touch needed to give you great results. To learn more about cosmetic treatments at Buckingham Center, call 512.401.2500 today to schedule your consultation!
