Help Your Filler Last Longer
Dermal fillers have become one of the most requested treatments at aesthetic offices around the globe. Thousands of patients enjoy the benefits of fillers, like enhanced facial volume, reduced wrinkles, and a more youthful face contour. However, running back into the injector’s office every few months can be costly and time consuming. Maximizing the longevity of fillers can preserve their beautifying effects without all the hassle. By making a few simple lifestyle tweaks and ensuring you follow your injector’s guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your filler and enjoy your results for longer than you think!
A quick note: Before attempting to prolong your filler’s effectiveness, be sure to ask your injector for tips, as each may have subtle differences you’ll need to consider.
Common Factors Affecting Duration
Composition
Most fillers contain hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally produced substance in the body that creates a plump and moisturized look to the skin. This class of filler works by attracting and retaining water in the injected area for 6 months to 1 year on average. Filler brands such as Revanesse®, which we use, Juvederm®, Restylane®, and Belotero® all belong to this class of filler.
Other popular filler brands like Sculptra® and Radiesse® use compounds like poly-L-lactic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite, which typically last between 6 months and 2 years depending on your body’s metabolism. Overall, this class of filler will retain the desired look for longer, but unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, there isn’t much that can be done to immediately reverse the filler once it is placed.
Both types of filler are popular as they stimulate and increase your own natural collagen over time.
Amount
You’ll also want to consider the amount of filler used. One syringe of filler in the lips will last much longer for many patients (when compared to a half syringe) as more water is drawn to the area and the tissue is stretched to accommodate the filler.
Placement
Another determinant is where the filler will be injected in the face. Active areas like the lips may metabolize and break down more quickly, while injections around the cheeks and eyes are typically placed closer to the bone and will remain locked in place for longer.
Lifestyle Choices Make a Difference
One of the most important ways to preserve the lifespan of your filler is to carefully listen to any specific at-home care instructions from your injector. Most injectors will ask you to refrain from strenuous exercise so you can avoid excess circulation and heat in the area that may impact the results. You’ll also want to avoid rough handling the skin so that the filler can stay in place and prevent lumps and bumps. You should limit smoking, drinking, and certain medications that promote bruising if possible, for several days.
A generally healthy lifestyle will help preserve your filler and your natural collagen. Eating nutritious foods, drinking plenty of water, avoiding excess sun, getting proper sleep, and following a quality skincare routine will lay a strong foundation for a beautiful look.
You should also consider staying on top of your healthcare supplements. In 2012, a study showed that regular intake of zinc helps prolong tox results. Some professionals have suggested that it may also help with the duration of dermal fillers. Other supplements that may improve skin tone and therefore assist with the look of fillers include vitamin c, omega-3 fatty acids, collagen peptides, and more.
Follow the Right Skincare Protocol
After the treatment, ask Dr. Boger if you need to follow a specific skincare regime to maintain your results. He may recommend certain anti-swelling creams, moisturizers, and serums to prolong the look. Common follow-up regimes include topical gels and creams, ice packs, and medical grade skincare like retinol, acids, and high-grade sunscreen to help protect and treat the skin.
A lesser-known secret is the beneficial impact of facial massage and exercises after filler treatments. Once the fillers have safely settled into the face and there is no more risk of migration or break down, some professional suggest gentle (professional) massage or muscle-building techniques designed for areas treated with fillers. These techniques may help optimize the look of fillers, promote collagen regeneration, tone the underlying muscles supplemented with filler, and create a healthier skin tone.
Consider Booking Your Next Appointment in Advance
One study showed that patients getting repeat fillers treatments for wrinkle correction needed less filler as time went on. Patients were given touch ups within a 6-9 month time frame and needed up to 60% less product by the next appointment to maintain the same look.
Getting into your injector’s office in a timely manner may prolong the desired appearance by supporting the underlying collagen stimulation and tissue remodeling. Both of which encourage your body to keep the youth-boosting effects and stimulate regeneration.
Finding the Winning Combination
Another possible strategy for long-term filler is finding a combination of both hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) or poly-L-lactic acid fillers. Mixing types of filler can draw water to the area to maximize plumpness as well as address structural issues that affect skin volume and support. Combining filler types can also allow for staggered metabolization of the filler, and possibly extend the look.
With the help of a few lifestyle and skincare habits, you can extend the life of your dermal fillers. Ask Dr. Boger to help you decide which filler is right for you for the safest way to enjoy long-lasting facial rejuvenation.