How long dermal fillers actually last
- Dr Sophie Gaskell
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
How long do fillers really last?
If you wre to ask the average injector, or even a consumer 'how long dermal fillers actually last? you'd most likely get 'between 6-12 months; as the answer. However, results of some studies have demonstrated an unexpected longevituy of hyaluornic acid, which also correlates with simlar findings by cosmetic physicians using ultrasound prior to injecting fillers
Results of one particular study , which used MRI scans over a period of approximately 16months, demonstrated significant amounts of HA filler in a particular patient, who had had treatment over 12 years ago!
Are fillers not meant to be broken down by the body?
From a physiological point of view yes. Most dermal fillers on the market are made from Hyaluronic acid (HA) which has been cross linked. HA is also a naturally occurring substance found in the body, and both are gradually hydrolysed by the enzyme 'Hyaluornidase'.... but perhaps not at the rate once thought.
What affects the longevity?
There are a number of factors that affect dermal filler longevity, though this differs form person to person. Generally, areas with more movement tend to brteak down faster and individual physiologcal factors, such as the amount of naturally ooccurring hyaluoridase your body has as well as lifestyl factors like smoking, aslo plays a key rold.
Not all filler dissolves, some may migrate instead.
MRI evidence has suggested that in some instances, when you think you filler has all gone, some of it may have mirgartee rather than it having been hyydrolysed by your body's own degredation processes.
Lip filler for example - MRI scans have shown that lip filers can migrate upward. This may be due to the mouth being very active, particulartly the orbicularis oris muscle, which is constangly contracting as it controls movements of the mouth and lips. Now don't get me wrong, lip filler migration is not necessarily a bad thing as it can in some instances improve the appearance of periroal wrinkles and smokers lines!
The problem with migration is that you potentially add volume to unintended regions of the face. This, coupled with the fact that HA filler is hydrophilic (acttracts water) it has the potential to inrease in volume over time , which could result in an unnatural or overfilled appearance, also known of filler fatigue.
Signs of filler fatigue
Puffy or overly rounded features - Particularly in areas like the lips, cheeks, and under the eyes.
Loss of natural contours - The face may lose its natural definition, with features appearing merged, or amorphous.
Skin irregularities - Over time, the skin can develop uneven textures, bumps or a stretched appearance due to excess filler.
So what does this all mean?
To ensure you maintain a natural appearance, you should adopt a 'less is more; approach
Moderation and minimalism are great mantras! Incremental treatments with conservative amounts of filler can prevent overcorrection and allowing fillers time to dissolve before addiitonal treatments helps avoid layering and accumulation.
Dr Sophie Gaskell BDS PGDip (Aesth Med)
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