Dermal Fillers: How Long Do They Last? A Complete Guide by a Plastic Surgeon in Dubai

Dermal fillers are one of the most requested non-surgical aesthetic treatments today—for good reason. They offer an almost-instant way to restore lost volume, smooth out fine lines, and subtly enhance facial features without going under the knife. But one of the first questions I hear from patients during consultations is:

“How long will my dermal fillers last?”

The answer? It depends—on the type of filler used, the area treated, and several individual lifestyle factors. As a plastic surgeon in Dubai, I always aim to give my patients not just great results, but clarity and confidence in their treatment choices. Let’s break it down.

How Long Do Different Dermal Fillers Last?

1. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane)

These are the most widely used fillers and are beloved for their safety, reversibility, and natural results. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the body, making these fillers well-tolerated and effective for many areas.

• Lips: 6 to 9 months

• Nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and under-eyes: 9 to 12 months

• Cheeks and jawline: 12 to 18 months

2. Poly-L-lactic Acid (Sculptra)

Sculptra is in a league of its own. It doesn’t provide immediate volume the way HA fillers do but works gradually by stimulating your skin to produce its own collagen.

• Results appear gradually over several months

• Longevity: Up to 2–3 years

3. Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse)

This filler not only restores volume but also stimulates natural collagen production. It’s thicker and more robust, making it ideal for deeper facial folds and midface contouring.

• Average duration: 12 to 18 months

• Can last up to 24 months in low-mobility areas like the cheeks

What Affects the Longevity of Dermal Fillers?

Even with the same product, how long a filler lasts can vary from person to person. Here’s why:

1. Treatment Area

Areas with more frequent movement (like the lips and mouth) tend to break down fillers faster than areas with less muscle activity (like the temples or cheeks).

2. Your Metabolism

Each body processes fillers differently. Patients with a faster metabolism often notice that their fillers break down more quickly and may need touch-ups sooner.

3. Lifestyle Choices

Frequent sun exposure, dehydration, smoking, and even stress can impact your skin health—and, in turn, the longevity of your fillers. I always remind my patients that good skincare and lifestyle habits go hand in hand with aesthetic treatments.

4. Type and Quality of Filler

Not all fillers are created equal. At my Dubai clinic, we exclusively use FDA-approved, premium-quality dermal fillers from trusted manufacturers. Using top-tier products ensures better integration into the tissue and longer-lasting effects.

5. Injector’s Technique

This is perhaps the most overlooked—but crucial—factor. The longevity of your filler results depends heavily on the injector’s expertise. Proper depth, placement, and technique significantly influence how the filler behaves over time.

How to Make Your Filler Results Last Longer

• Follow post-treatment care instructions: Avoid excessive sun exposure, don’t massage the area unless advised, and avoid vigorous workouts for 24 hours.

• Stay hydrated and use a good skincare routine: Healthy, well-moisturized skin maintains filler results better.

• Schedule regular maintenance appointments: Rather than waiting for results to fade completely, small top-ups at regular intervals help maintain a consistent, natural appearance.

• Consider combination treatments: Fillers pair beautifully with other modalities like Botox, skin boosters, and energy-based devices for a holistic anti-aging approach.

Why Choose Dr. Vikesh Vij for Dermal Fillers in Dubai?

At my Dubai clinic, every filler treatment begins with a detailed facial assessment and a clear understanding of your goals. Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate, contour, or enhance your features, the goal is always the same—to achieve natural, elegant results that enhance your existing beauty.

From selecting the right filler to tailoring the injection technique to your facial anatomy, my approach is both artistic and evidence-based. I believe in subtle enhancements that bring balance to your features—not overfilled or artificial looks.

—

Dr. Vikesh Vij
Plastic Surgeon in Dubai