Dermal fillers are the second most common cosmetic procedure in the United States, but how long do dermal fillers last? There are many factors that go into how long fillers last and what they’re used for. Before we talk about how long fillers last, let’s review what dermal fillers are.
Dermal Fillers Overview
Dermal fillers, also known as facial fillers, are used to make the skin appear more youthful. Fillers help give this youthful appearance by restoring fullness to your face, hands, and lips. Some of the ways a youthful appearance is restored are:
- Erasing fine lines
- Plumping lips
- Diminishing scars
- Rejuvenating hands
- Restoring fullness under the eyes, in deep creases, and the cheeks
- Lifting the brow or a downturned mouth
Dermal fillers are a popular cosmetic procedure for many reasons. Most notably, they produce immediate results, can be completed in-office, and you can return to normal activities within 24 hours of your appointment.
Are Dermal Fillers Safe?
Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers have been FDA-approved since 2003. In the last two decades since this initial approval, these fillers have developed a proven safety record. This does not mean fillers are without risk if injected improperly. Possible risks increase if fillers are improperly selected or an improper technique is used. This is why it’s important for dermal fillers to be injected by trained and certified professionals, such as dermatologists..
Additionally, hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can be dissolved completely with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This enzyme can be used if you are unhappy with your results or a complication occurs. Consult with your dermatologist before the procedure to ensure they have this enzyme available at all times.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
While dermal fillers are not permanent, there are a few variables that determine how long fillers last. A main factor that determines how long facial fillers last is the type of product used. The choice of filler is based on the area to be treated, patient characteristics, and the desired effect.
Dermal fillers used to smooth wrinkles, which are often thinner, typically last six to twelve months. Deeper injections can last up to a year, and newer dermal fillers can last up to two years. At Vujevich Dermatology Associates, we offer our patients three proven brands: Restylane®, Juvéderm®, and Belotero Balance®.
Where the dermal filler is injected will also make a difference in how long fillers last. In areas that move more often, like the lips, the constant movement of the muscles can break down the filler more quickly.
How Long Does it Take for Facial Fillers to Work?
Dermal fillers show instant results, but it can take up to two weeks for the filler to fully settle in the injected areas. Immediately following the procedure, you may notice the areas injected with fillers look extra plump. As the filler settles, you’ll notice this plumpness diminishes a bit.
Are Dermal Fillers Only Used For the Face?
Filler procedures are not just for the face. Dermal fillers can also be used on the neck and the hands.
Common concerns about the neck include “sagging”, “crepe paper skin”, “horizontal bands”, and “wrinkles”. These concerns are the result of less fat and collagen as we age. Fillers can be injected directly into wrinkles or areas of the neck diffusely. However, the neck is a trickier area to treat, and dermal fillers are often combined with other procedures for the maximum effect.
The loss of fat and collagen due to aging also affects our hands, making the veins, tendons, and bones more prominent. Using dermal fillers for the hands has been growing in popularity as they replace lost fat, better camouflage veins and tendons, and reduce the appearance of thinning skin.
What Happens When Dermal Fillers Wear Off?
Many people come to us worried about what to expect when dermal fillers wear off. If your dermal filler is injected by a trained professional, there’s very little to worry about. Fillers made of hyaluronic acid, like those used at Vujevich Dermatology Associates, are easily broken down by the body because hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the body. This means the areas with dermal fillers will gradually decrease in volume over time.
Another common concern about dermal fillers wearing off is that the skin will be stretched and won’t bounce back. You might be surprised to learn your skin might look even better after the dermal filler has dissolved. Some dermal fillers work to increase collagen, which will make your skin look more youthful with or without fillers. Whether or not your filler boosts collagen production, fillers will not stretch your skin.
Are Dermal Fillers Worth It?
While we can’t decide if dermal fillers are worth it for you, people generally report they are happy with their results. If it’s the side effects you’re worried about, most side effects from dermal fillers are mild or moderate. The most common side effect people experience is minor bruising that can last 24 hours or several days. Other side effects include swelling, rashes, and potential infection.
As with all cosmetic procedures, some people are at higher risk of complications from dermal fillers. Tell your dermatologist if you have any of the following when discussing fillers:
- Inflamed skin
- Allergies
- A bleeding disorder
- You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- Your skin scars easily
Are You Ever Too Old for Fillers?
Most people who use dermal fillers are aged 40 and up. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen and elastin, which help keep our skin looking youthful. Some of our patients in their 40s and 50s use facial fillers to smooth fine lines and wrinkles that are a result of less collagen and elastin.
If you’re interested in learning more about dermal fillers to help achieve a more youthful appearance, schedule an appointment with one of our highly trained dermatologists or our highly trained nurse practitioner, Lisa Barba, CRNP at Vujevich Dermatology Associates or fill out our form below. You can reach our team at 412-429-2570. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.