The best way to preserve the results from certain filler treatments—such as Juvederm® at the Philadelphia area’s Cross Medical Group—is to get touch-up injections over time.

The reality of hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers is that while the results are long-lasting, they do require some maintenance for anyone who wants to enjoy their effects for years. One of the benefits of these fillers is that their results appear instantly. However, the volumizing effects of hyaluronic acid fillers gradually wear off in the following months as the gel is metabolized. Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule that your body produces, so the “star ingredient” in these fillers is one your body recognizes and processes. 

Fillers address age-related cosmetic changes such as thinning skin and loss of elasticity by “filling in” wrinkles and restoring volume to thinning areas. One of the common misconceptions about these injections is that if you stop having your fillers, your skin will sag, and you’ll need to continue using the treatments forever. You don’t need to be concerned that the effects of aging will speed up if you were to stop having fillers after you’ve started, nor that you’ll need to continue having injections for the rest of your life. It’s completely safe to stop using them cold turkey if you wish to and to never have any follow-up injections.

That said, many patients are thrilled with their results from fillers and choose to go back for more injections to maintain the more youthful look. As with any other skin-related procedure, each filler has an expected lifespan, but there’s no way to guarantee exactly how long they will last because individual results will vary. The longevity of Juvederm®, for example, is affected by various factors including the specific formulation of filler used, the age of the patient, the state of the patient’s skin, where the filler is injected into the face, how much of the filler is injected, and how quickly your body metabolizes the filler material. Our individual genetics and lifestyles will also have an impact on the lifespan of fillers. Some people simply metabolize fillers faster. Also, if you exercise frequently, your fillers will probably break down at a faster rate.

It’s important that you talk to your injector during your consultation about what type of filler is being used, what type of results you hope to achieve, and how long it is likely to last. 

Older patients may find that the effects of the fillers wear off more quickly when compared to younger patients. Fillers break down more rapidly on more mobile areas of the face (such as the lips) but usually last longer on less mobile areas (like the cheeks). Heavier and “sturdier” fillers last longer.

Although touch-up injections are the best way to maintain consistent results, there are methods that patients can use at home to preserve the effects of treatments if they can’t make it to follow-up appointments as soon as they’d like.

Follow Aftercare Guidelines 

Don’t rub, massage, or put too much pressure on the face for the first 24 to 48 hours. You should also avoid strenuous exercise on the first day. 

Practice Good Skincare 

Fillers work best when they’re paired with a proper skincare routine. Retinol, vitamin C, and sunscreen are essentials if you want to maintain plump, smooth skin between filler treatments. Since good hyaluronic acid-based skin products contain the same main ingredient as fillers, it’s possible that using them can extend the lifespan of your results. Hyaluronic add products are intended to add hydration to improve the quality of your skin. In any case, they complement fillers perfectly. Use the right cleanser, moisturizer, anti-aging, and sun protection products for you.

Keep Stress Levels Down

Chronic stress is bad for your body, including your skin. It’s harmful to your skin and can accelerate aging—as well as the signs of aging.

For more information about the benefits of facial fillers like Juvederm®, contact the Philadelphia area’s Cross Medical Group. Call (215) 561-9100 or submit a contact form to request a consultation.