Ever looked in the mirror and wished you could smooth out those lines or restore youthful volume without going under the knife? You’re not alone.
Aging is natural, but wanting a bit of help to soften the process can be quite simple. Facial fillers are a great way to improve appearance without undergoing invasive surgery.
They offer a quick way to reduce wrinkles, add volume, and enhance facial contours with minimal discomfort.
But how long do fillers last? That depends in part on which type of treatment you choose.
Types of Dermal Fillers
There are several types of fillers, each with unique characteristics and purposes. The most popular types of fillers include:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers are especially popular and widely used dermal fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that holds water in the skin and helps keep skin looking hydrated and plump.
Popular brands include Juvederm, Restylane, Revanesse, and RHA. These fillers are commonly used to create contour, reshape the face, and add volume to the lips, cheeks, and under the eyes.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
Calcium hydroxylapatite is a compound found in bones.
CaHA fillers, such as Radiesse, are thicker than HA fillers and are typically used for contouring as with the jawline and cheeks. Radiesse can also be diluted and used as a collagen stimulator in the neck, chest, or for cellulite.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
Polylactic acid fillers, like Sculptra, work differently from other fillers by stimulating the skin’s collagen production. They are often used for facial volume restoration and improving skin texture.
PLLA fillers are not instant and require treatments over a few months to achieve desired results. Rather than creating structure and contour, Sculptra will provide subtle, all-over volume.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
How long your fillers last depends on several factors, such as the type of filler used, the area treated, and individual factors, such as metabolism and lifestyle.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
These fillers generally last between 6 months to 2 years or longer. Some brands of filler last longer than others. Filler in areas of high movement (like the lips) may last less time than in areas that don’t have a lot of muscle movement (like the temples).
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
CaHA fillers usually last between 12 to 18 months.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
Polylactic fillers can last up to two years or more as they work by stimulating collagen production. However, multiple sessions are required to achieve full results. We recommend annual treatment so you don’t return to your starting point.
What Happens When Fillers Wear Off?
As fillers gradually break down and are metabolized by the body, their effects begin to diminish. This process is natural and occurs over time.
When fillers wear off, the treated area will slowly return to its pretreatment state. For example, if fillers were used to enhance lip volume, the lips would gradually revert to their original size and shape as the filler dissolves.
The rate at which fillers wear off depends on factors such as the type of filler, the area treated, and how fast your body breaks down the filler.
How Often Do Fillers Need to Be Done?
The frequency with which fillers need to be replaced depends on the type of filler used and individual goals. Here are some general guidelines:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers and Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
Typically, filler treatments are done once a year or less, although lip filler is sometimes needed more frequently.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
Initial treatment usually involves 2-3 treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart, followed by yearly maintenance sessions.
However, some patients might choose additional treatments to address new signs of aging.
Do Fillers Ever Fully Go Away?
Most fillers are designed to be temporary and will ultimately break down and be absorbed by the body.
Hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite fillers gradually break down over time. It is not known how long it takes for the filler to be completely gone, but any trace amounts remaining are not noticeable to the naked eye.
It’s important to note that while the filler material itself may dissolve, the effects of certain fillers, like PLLA, which stimulate collagen production, can have long-lasting benefits even after the filler has worn off because new collagen changes the skin quality.
Dermal Fillers in Scottsdale, Arizona
If you’re interested in fillers in the Scottsdale, Arizona, area, Curated Medical is here to help.
Whether it’s your first time with fillers or you’re an experienced client, our compassionate, well-trained staff can help you choose the best option to help you look and feel your best.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
