How Long Do Fillers Last? The Definitive Guide (Updated for 2023)

"A diagram illustrating how long a specific filler procedure will last on a given treatment area

One of the most common questions we hear at Mabrie Facial Institute in San Francisco is “How long do fillers last?” To understand the answer, we have to consider more than just the physical or chemical properties of the products.  

Filler Longevity vs. Results Longevity 

What patients really want to know is how long their results will last after getting filler injections. This distinction is important.

Factors that influence how long a filler lasts after injection include:  

  • Filler material 
  • Filler consistency 
  • Treatment area 
  • How fast your body metabolizes fillers 

You can enjoy visible facial rejuvenation or contouring results even after the body absorbs the specific filler injected.

Here’s why: Filler injections can stimulate collagen production in the treatment area. That means your own body is producing a substance that restores volume in the area. How great is that? 

Infographic: 3 Ways Fillers Add Facial Volume

One phenomenon we’ve observed at Mabrie Facial Institute is that our patients tend to enjoy improvements lasting years—sometimes even after they’ve discontinued treatment. The following patient is a great example of the remarkable longevity of under-eye fillers: 

Patient prior to any dermal fillers
Before treatment
Patient 1 month after her first filler treatment.
1 month after first treatment
Patient after her third filler treatment
After 3rd treatment over 2 years
Patient 4 years since her last filler treatment.
4 years after 3rd treatment

The final photo was taken 4 years after her previous treatment, and her results still look perfect! That means her filler results lasted 7x longer than anticipated! 

Here’s another example of a patient whose results seem to last indefinitely: 

Patient prior to any dermal fillers.
Before treatment
Patient 1 month after first dermal filler treatment.
1 month after midface/under-eye treatment
Patient after third treatment in over 3 months.
Patient after 3rd treatment over 3 months
Over 1 year since the patient has had a filler treatment.
1 year after 3rd treatment

We’re seeing that tear trough filler results can last more than 12 months, especially with the support provided by our Midface Rejuvenation package. This is much longer than the 6-month intervals for tear trough filler maintenance that we once recommended.

How Can You Make Your Fillers Last Longer? 

Fillers gradually degrade during the initial few months after being injected. Because fillers absorb water, you can still see the results. But at about the midpoint of the expected duration of the fillers, you’ll start to notice the filler’s decreased volume.

Can you get more mileage from your fillers? By anticipating the decreasing volume through a phased approach, Mabrie Facial Institute extends the life of your results. We create personalized treatment plans for each of our facial rejuvenation and contouring patients. Our packages are designed to prolong results and include 2 treatment appointments. We build and layer the fillers during these treatments.

Our Illumination 360° approach to non surgical facial rejuvenation and contouring includes creating a comprehensive, multi-phase treatment plan that’s designed to provide long-lasting results with touch-up treatments every 9 to 12 months. As the fillers stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen, patients begin seeing results lasting longer. Additionally, we’re able to use less product to maintain the results, which remain looking fresh and, ideally, no one experiences a “gap” in their results.

Filler Longevity Based on Treatment Area

Although our approach is to keep you looking your best 24/7/365, we can make generalizations about how long fillers last based on the treatment area.  

How long do under eye fillers last?

Results using a hyaluronic acid-based filler can last 12 months or even longer when treating the tear trough area under the eyes. Restylane is a common choice for under the eyes because it’s firm enough to support the thinner skin in that area.

How long do cheek fillers last?

Using a hyaluronic acid filler such as JUVÉDERM VOLUMA® creates results that can last 24 months. A touch-up treatment at 12 months helps maintain and prolong the results. VOLUMA and RADIESSE® are thicker gels that provide the lift that cheeks need to look more youthful. RADIESSE lasts approximately 15 months, with a touch-up treatment at 7 months. Sculptra is a collagen stimulator that produces gradual results that last 2 years or more.

How long do nose fillers last?

Non surgical rhinoplasty using a hyaluronic acid filler such as Restylane can last up to 12 months or even longer with maintenance treatments at 6 months and follow-up appointments scheduled at approximately 9 to 12 months. Restylane is a firm, thinner gel that enables the injector to sculpt and shape nasal skin more effectively than thicker fillers.

How long do lip fillers last?

Lip augmentation using fillers can last up to 12 months or more with multiple treatments. It can typically take 3 treatments to get the desired outcome because filler used in the first couple of treatments may get compressed. Restylane, Restylane Silk, and JUVÉDERM are popular fillers for lip enhancement. These are softer gels. Restylane Kysse is an exciting newer option that offers natural movement and expression, along with results that last up to 12 months.

How long do fillers last at the corners of the mouth?

Hyaluronic acid fillers can produce results that last a total of 1 year, with a touch-up treatment at 6 months. Most fillers can get good results in this area, but hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved if they are accidentally injected into a blood vessel (a rare complication).

How long do chin fillers last?

Chin augmentation using fillers, such as JUVÉDERM VOLUMA, RADIESSE, or a combination of products, can produce results that last between 15 and 24 months with touch-up treatments. Chin enhancement creates a well-defined profile that both men and women desire.

BA-chin-V2

Ready to get started on your treatments? Set up a consultation now.

 

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How Long Do Different Fillers Last?

When the FDA approves a filler, it indicates how long the results can be expected to last. While actual longevity may vary from the FDA’s guidelines, the guidelines provide a good benchmark for expert injectors when they create treatment plans for patients. Multiple filler materials exist, including fat, and they behave differently after being injected.

dermal fillers timeline graph

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers 

juvederm restylane belotero san francisco

What are hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers?

A substance that is naturally found in the skin, hyaluronic acid is the most popular filler material. Its used in JUVÉDERM® and Restylane® products, and BELOTERO BALANCE®. It hydrates the skin and smooths wrinkles and creases.  

How long do hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers last?

Patients often ask “How long does Restylane last?” or “How long does JUVÉDERM last?” While it depends on the formulation, the gel-like material typically lasts anywhere from 6 months to 2 years or longer. The material gradually breaks down and the body naturally absorbs the particles. 

Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers 

radiesse san francisco

What are calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers? 

This substance naturally occurs in the body–primarily in the bones. RADIESSE is an FDA-approved filler formulated with CaHA. The microscopic particles are suspended in a smooth, thick gel.  

How long do calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers last?

The filler typically lasts about 12 months, and it also triggers the body to produce more of its own collagen. 

Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers 

Sculptra logo

What are poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers?

This synthetic filler is made using a biocompatible, biodegradable substance (it’s safe to use in the body). PLLA was commonly used in medical devices before the FDA approved its use as an anti-wrinkle treatment. PLLA is usually injected deeper than other fillers and works by stimulating collagen production. Sculptra® Aesthetic is the most commonly used PLLA filler in the United States. 

How long do poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers last?

The gel in which the PLLA is carried dissipates after only a couple of days, but the results can last more than 2 years. 

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers 

bellafill san francisco

What are polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers?

This is also a biocompatible material with a long track record of being used safely in medical implants and other devices. Bellafill® is a collagen-based filler with PMMA microspheres that provides structural support and produces smoother skin.  

How long do polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers last?

Results can last more than 5 years when used to correct nasolabial folds because the microspheres remain in place even as the body reabsorbs the collagen gel. 

Fat Injections/Fat Grafting 

What are fat injections/fat grafting?

Facial fat grafting involves using liposuction to harvest fat from another area of the body, then purifying it and injecting it into the face. Purified fat can be used in multiple areas of the face.  

How long do fat injections last?

Fat grafting is considered a permanent procedure, but not all the transferred fat survives the process, making results difficult to predict. Sometimes multiple treatments are required. 

A Final Word 

Its important to remember that our faces continue to lose volume as we age, so maintaining the optimal results involves adding additional volume. By not waiting until the filler is completely absorbed, we use less filler for maintenance. 

To get more information about fillers, contact us online or call us at (415) 322-3307. Our knowledgeable Concierge Team is available to answer any of your questions and schedule your appointment. 

We hope to see you soon. 

Until then, stay beautiful!  

 

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Dr. David Mabrie

Dr. David Mabrie

Facial Plastic Surgeon & Founder of Mabrie Facial Institute Dr. David Mabrie is a recognized leader, innovator, and educator in the use of dermal fillers for facial sculpting and has dedicated his practice entirely to facial rejuvenation with injectables. Years of experience led Dr. Mabrie to pioneer the Illumination 360° approach, just one of the ways Dr. Mabrie brings life to his practice’s mantra: “your face, perfected.”

29 Responses to How Long Do Fillers Last? The Definitive Guide (Updated for 2023)

  • scott moody says:

    Looking to add left cheek volume to match right cheek volume. Does the Doctor Mabrie due the injections or some other staff member instead

    • Susan Cole says:

      Hi Scott – Facial filler treatments are performed by Dr. Mabrie. Our new Physician Assistant, Kimberly, performs Botox/Dysport treatment, PRP hair treatment, and Kybella. Please give us a call when you’re ready for treatment. We look forward to welcoming you to the practice.

    • Susan Cole says:

      Hi PS – thank you for checking-out our blog. Your fillers should last longer than 2 weeks. I’m sorry to hear that you’re not seeing some lasting results. I suggest contacting your Injector and scheduling a follow-up appointment. That’s feedback that any Injector wants to know and help you solve. In my practice, I see patients for at least 2 visits. That allows us to assess the results and build upon the foundation layers on the follow-up visit. It’s never a one-and-done. While every patient metabolizes fillers differently, typically fillers can last from 6 to 9 months depending on the area treated, the type of filler used for treatment, and your individual anatomy. If you’re results lasted less than a month, schedule a follow-up visit with your provider. I hope that’s helpful and that you don’t give up on the benefits of treatment.

  • Jo says:

    Are there any medications that reduce the longevity of fillers for example gabapentin or nozanan or clonazapam or Percocet

    Thank you

    • Hi Jo ~ Thank you for checking out our blog and your questions about medications (gabapentin, nozanan, clonazapam, or percocet) affecting the longevity of filler. This is a great question! We have not seen that these medication affect filler duration. We also did some double-checking with the labs and they relay the same. If you are taking any of these medications, it should not affect your filler duration. I hope that helps.

  • Gg says:

    I had the same experience.. the filler I used lasred 2 months not up to two years. I spend a lot of mpney for a filler to last 2 months. I had a follow up appt. They used a different filler, gone in 1 month.

    • Hi Gg ~ Thank you for checking-out our blog about Dermal Filler longevity. I’m sorry that your filler did not last longer than a few months. Some patients metabolize filler faster than others; however, there could be other reasons including the injection depth/plane, type of filler used in the treatment area, and/or not enough filler under the skin to make a visible difference in the desired area. If you’re a patient of our office, please give us a call for a follow-up appointment. It would be beneficial to see you in-person and assess your results.

  • Amber says:

    I have the same issue! I have tried several different fillers and gone to 3 different injectors.. yet my fillers have only lasted anywhere from 1 week to 1 month. I don’t understand! I eat healthy and drink plenty of water.

    • Kimberly says:

      Hi Amber – thank you for sharing your concern. Typically, volume loss during the first month post-injection is not from the metabolization of the filler itself, but rather from the decrease in swelling. During and immediately after injections, swelling sets in, and it can very deceptively appear as volume from filler. As the swelling slowly decreases over the course of a month, it can appear as though the fillers themselves may be decreasing. This can be discouraging to patients, but rest assured the filler is there, you likely need to continue building on it. We find the best, most natural results are achieved by a second visit, a refinement visit, where we continue layering the filler building on the results from before. I hope this was helpful.

    • Kimberly says:

      Hi Lynne – Microneedling will help to stimulate your own collagen growth to improve wrinkles to this area, but it typically requires multiple treatments and a longer wait period to see results from treatment since it takes time for your own collagen to grow. The downtime of this treatment varies depending on how your skin reacts and heals. The benefit of using dermal fillers is that results are visualized immediately with minimal downtime. Depending on the depth of the lines a patient may need only one filler treatment. Please keep in mind, these two treatments can be done in combination with one another to address the lines, but requires proper timing between the two types of treatments. Hope this was helpful.

    • Kimberly says:

      Hi Austin – we are happy this information was helpful to you! If you have any additional questions about dermal fillers please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.

  • Katherine Thomson says:

    My mom wanted to try out the dermal fillers for her lower part of the face. Quite effective information I will share this article with my mother as well.

    • Hi Katherine,
      I’m so glad you found this information helpful! We would love to see your mom at our office, or answer any additional questions you have about dermal fillers.

  • Lisa Marie says:

    I have visited one of the top restorative facility firm and find a good pace that dermal fillers Bristol as it was extremely educational. For the time being, your article is truly all around clarified and educational also. Keep it up. Check @ https://jbcosmetic.co.uk/

    • Hi Lisa,
      Thank you for sharing that site with us, we will check it out! We are glad to hear you found this information helpful and educational. If you have any additional questions about dermal fillers please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

  • Bob Newton says:

    It’s good that you point out that dermal fillers can improve the appearance of wrinkles. I’ve been looking for a way to get rid of the wrinkles on my face, so I’m considering getting dermal fillers. I’m going to look for a good health clinic in my area that does dermal fillers.
    https://davincimed.com/dermal-fillers/

    • Hi Bob,
      I’m happy to hear that you found this information helpful! There are different methods of treatment for wrinkles. Depending on the location of the wrinkle we recommend neuromodulator injections, dermal fillers or a combination of the two. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.

    • Hi Patty, thanks for the question! Botox is a substance that is injected into muscles and acts by cutting off the signal to the muscle that normal tells the muscle to contract. With the muscle no longer contracting as strongly the skin above it lies smooth, improving the appearance of wrinkles. Fillers, on the other hand, are a gel-like substance that are injected into the face to add volume and reshape the face; they can be thought of as a ‘sculpting material’. Hope this was helpful. You can also check out our Dermal Fillers 101 page for more details, we have an entire section on fillers vs botox.

    • Hi Connie, thanks for reaching out! We only use hyaluronic acid fillers to treat the marionette lines due to the vasculature in the area. Our prices vary per injector. I’ve linked our website page HERE that reviews treatment pricing as well as consultation fees.

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