Do dermal fillers last longer than previously thought?

@drsophiegaskell

Do dermal fillers last longer than previously thought?

If you were to ask the average injector, or even a consumer 'how long do fillers last?' you'd most likely get 'between 6 and 12 months' as the answer. However, results of some studies have demonstrated an unexpected longevity of hyaluronic acid fillers, which also correlates with similar findings by cosmetic physicians using ultrasound prior to injecting fillers.

Results of one particular study which used MRI scans over a period of approximately 16 months, demonstrated significant amounts of. 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 which has been cross linked. HA is also a naturally occurring substance found in the body and both are gradually hydrolysed by thte enzyme 'hyaluronidase'.... but perhaps not quite at the rate once thought. Which makes us question, do dermal fillers last longer than previously thought?

There are a number of factors that affect dermal filler longevity, although this differs from person to person. Generally, areas with more movement tend to break down faster, and individual physiological factors, such as the amount of naturally occurring hyaluronidase your body has, as well as lifestyle factors like smoking, also play a key role

Not all filler dissolves, some may migrate instead.

MRI evidence has suggested that in some instances, when you think your filler has all gone, some of it may have migrated rather than it having been hydrolysed by your body's own degredation processes.

Lip filler for example. MRI scans have shown that lip fillers can mirgrate upward. This may be due to the mouth being very active, particularly the orbicularis oris muscle, which is constantly 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, it can in some instances improve the appearance of perioral wrinkles and smokers lines.

The problem with migration....

The problem is that you potentially add volume to unintended regions of the face. This, coupled with the fact that HA filler is hydrophilic (attracts water) is that it has the potential to increase in volume over time, which could result in an unnatural or overfilled appearance, also known as filler fatigue.

Signs of filler fatigue

Puffy or overly rounded features

Parcitularly in areas like the lips, cheeks and under the eye

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 texurtes, bumps, or a stretched appearance due to excess filler.

So what does this mean?

To ensure you maintain a natural appearance, you should adopt a 'less is more' approach.

MODERATION AND MINIMALISM!

Incremental treatments with conservative amounts of filler can prevent overcorrection, and allowing fillers time to dissolve before additional treatments helps avoid layering and accumlation of product.