Dermal fillers are a non-invasive cosmetic treatment designed to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, add volume to the face, balance facial symmetry, and contour certain areas of the face. While dermal fillers are very popular for a wide variety of aesthetic goals, it’s ideal to minimize the frequency of treatments. Let’s talk about how long you can expect dermal fillers to last.
What Are Dermal Fillers and How Long Do They Last?
Dermal fillers are injectables that can enhance facial volume, smooth out lines and wrinkles, and create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing look. There are four different types of dermal fillers. These include:
- Hyaluronic acid(HA) — The most commonly used fillers, they typically last around six months, sometimes longer, and help retain moisture for a fuller, more hydrated appearance.
- Calcium hydroxlapatite — These collagen stimulating fillers have a durability of up to a year.
- Poly-L-lactic acid(PLLA) — These fillers also stimulate collagen, but can last for up to two years.
- Polymethylmethacrylate(PMMA) — Considered semi-permenant, these fillers consist of tiny spheres within a collagen base that last for an extended period of time.
All of these fillers are biocompatible. Many of them are made from substances found in the body, and they can all be metabolized by the body. How long each filler lasts depends on what it’s made of, with HA fillers lasting for the shortest amount of time.
Factors that Affect the Longevity of Dermal Fillers
The type of fillers is the main factor in determining how long your fillers will last. However, there are other factors that can influence the lifespan of your treatment.
Metabolism
Metabolism plays a role in the rate at which the body naturally breaks down and removes the filler, potentially influencing its durability. People with quicker metabolic rates may find that their results don’t last as long.
Treatment Areas
Dynamic muscles, or muscles that move often, like the frontalis muscle in the forehead may cause quicker breakdown of dermal filler compared to less dynamic treatment areas.
What to Expect From Dermal Filler Injections
Following the administration of dermal fillers, there is usually a brief period before the results are fully apparent. Having realistic expectations about the treatment process is important for a positive outcome. Initial changes will be noticeable right away, but the complete effects will require several days to appear as small side effects like redness and bruising begin to go away.
Although fillers are typically safe, there are certain risks tied to longer-lasting types, such as displacement or the formation of small lumps. Your aesthetic provider can explain these potential side effects to you and discuss realistic treatment outcomes to help you make an informed care choice.
How to Optimize Dermal Filler Longevity
Appropriate aftercare and ongoing maintenance can extend the life of fillers and give you lasting results. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking and unhealthy skincare practices, can negatively influence how long they last. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and a consistent skincare regimen can help prolong your results. When you get your first round of fillers done, plan a follow-up visit schedule with your aesthetic provider to ensure proper maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of filler should I get?
Your aesthetic specialist will help you pick a filler that best meets your aesthetic goals and treatment requirements. Many individuals opt for a hyaluronic acid filler for their first treatment due to its relatively shorter duration compared to other fillers.
Who is a good candidate for dermal fillers?
Anyone looking for increased volume, facial contouring, and smoothing of lines and wrinkles. Dermal fillers are considered safe for everyone.
Why should I pick dermal fillers instead of a longer lasting procedure?
While only you can decide what’s best for you, patients enjoy that dermal fillers are minimally invasive, quick, and require little downtime.
Revitalize Your Look with Dermal Fillers at Swan Aesthetics
Dermal fillers are a versatile treatment that help you get the look you’ve been wanting, whether it’s fuller cheeks or lips or a more youthful complexion. If you’re interested in dermal fillers, contact Swan Aesthetics today and learn more about how we can help you.
