How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last? A Face-by-Face Guide to Longevity and Maintenance
One of the first questions our patients ask about dermal filler treatments is, “How long will it last?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all – it depends on the area treated, the type of filler used, and individual factors. Dermal fillers (particularly the popular hyaluronic acid-based fillers) are not permanent; the body will gradually break them down over time. However, with the right product choice and a good maintenance plan, you can enjoy your enhanced look for a long time before needing a top-up. In this guide, we’ll break down how long fillers tend to last in each area of the face and offer tips on maintenance. Whether you’ve had lip filler in Reigate or a cheek enhancement at our Surrey clinic, we want you to have realistic expectations for longevity and know that Mindful Aesthetics will support you with a personalised plan to keep your results looking their best.
What Factors Influence Dermal Filler Longevity?
Several key factors determine how long a dermal filler will last after injection:
Treatment Area & Movement
Fillers placed in areas of high movement (like the lips or around the mouth) usually dissolve faster than those in low-mobility areas. Constant motion increases circulation and metabolism in the area, meaning the filler breaks down sooner. For instance, lip fillers might not last as long because our lips are always in motion (talking, eating, etc.), whereas a filler in the nose (for a non-surgical rhinoplasty) tends to last longer due to the nose’s relative lack of movement.
Type of Filler (Thickness/Cross-linking)
Not all fillers are created equal. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers come in different viscosity or “thickness” levels. Thicker, more highly cross-linked gels (often used for structural support in cheeks or jawline) generally last longer than softer, more fluid fillers (used for fine lines or lips). For example, a very soft filler intended for subtle lip hydration might metabolize in about 6–9 months, whereas a dense filler designed for lifting cheeks can last 12–18 months or more. The formulation and brand matter; products like Juvederm Voluma or Teosyal Ultra Deep (thicker fillers) are known for their longevity in the face.
Individual Metabolism & Lifestyle
Your body’s unique metabolism plays a big role. Younger individuals tend to break down fillers faster because their metabolic rate is higher. If you are very physically active or have a high metabolism, you might notice your filler fading sooner. Lifestyle factors can contribute too – things like smoking or extensive cardio exercise are sometimes reported to shorten filler lifespan (likely due to increased metabolic activity and blood flow). Additionally, external factors like extreme UV exposure can degrade fillers more quickly. Staying well-hydrated and using sun protection will not only prolong your filler results but also benefit your skin’s overall health.
Volume of Filler Injected
Using a larger amount of filler can make results last a bit longer (simply because there’s more product for your body to break down). However, we always prioritize a natural look over simply injecting more – our doctors will use the right amount for your aesthetic goals. That said, if only a tiny amount is used (for example, a subtle lip refresh), it might wear off sooner than a full syringe used to sculpt cheeks.
First Time vs. Repeat Treatments
Some patients find that their first-ever filler treatment might not last as long as subsequent ones. One theory is that repeat treatments can have a cumulative effect – the filler may stimulate some collagen production and there could be a bit of product still remaining from prior sessions, so results build up over time. In practice, we do see that clients who maintain their fillers with regular touch-ups often get longer-lasting benefits (because we top up before the previous filler has completely dissolved).
Understanding these factors can help you plan your treatments. We always discuss these variables during consultations at Mindful Aesthetics, so you know what to expect for your particular treatment area and filler type.
How Long Fillers Last by Facial Area
Lips: Approx. 6–12 months
The lips are one of the most dynamic parts of your face – think of how often you talk, smile, eat, and even how you subconsciously purse your lips. Because of this constant movement and a strong blood supply, lip fillers tend to wear off sooner. Many people find their lip enhancement lasts around a year or slightly less. To maintain plump lips, you might consider a touch-up at the 6–9 month mark, or whenever you start to see the volume decreasing noticeably.
Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines): Approx. 9–12 months
These lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth are frequently treated with filler to soften their appearance. Because this area does move (when you smile or talk) but not as aggressively as the lips, fillers here tend to last around a year. Thicker fillers are often used in this area to support the fold, so results can be on the longer side of the range. You may only need to refresh nasolabial fillers once a year or even a bit less frequently.
Cheeks: Approx. 12–18 months
The cheeks (mid-face) usually hold filler very well. We typically use a robust, thicker filler for cheek augmentation or to restore volume, and these products are designed for longevity. Moreover, your cheeks don’t move as much as your mouth area. A well-placed cheek filler can often last a year and a half or even up to two years in some cases. Patients love that cheek fillers can be long-lasting – it means you get to enjoy those lifted contours for a good while. We generally review cheek filler results at 12 months, and if it’s still looking great, we might not re-treat until 18 months or later.
Tear Troughs (Under-Eye Hollows): Approx. 12 months (sometimes up to 18)
Filler under the eyes can be longer-lasting, because this area has minimal movement and a slower metabolic rate. We use delicate, soft fillers for the tear troughs, but even so, under-eye fillers often last around a year or more. Some patients find their under-eye filler is still present after 1.5 to 2 years, though usually a touch-up is done around the 12-month mark to keep the area looking fresh.
Nose (Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty): Approx. 12–18 months
When we use filler to straighten or shape the nose, the results tend to be quite long-lasting. The nose doesn’t have much motion, and we use a very sturdy filler for this procedure. Many patients see their nose filler last well over a year. Because precise placement is critical for nose fillers, we usually let it fully or mostly dissipate before doing a repeat treatment (typically at 12–18 months) to ensure we maintain a natural look.
Chin & Jawline: Approx. 15–24 months
Enhancing the chin or jaw usually involves high-density fillers placed deeply along the bone for structural support. These areas, like the cheeks, benefit from both the filler’s durability and their relatively low movement. It’s not uncommon for chin/jawline filler results to last around two years, although we like to do a check-in at around 12–15 months to see if a minor top-up would help maintain the profile.
Marionette Lines: Approx. 9–12 months
The marionette lines (the vertical lines or creases that extend downward from the corners of the mouth) are another area of moderate movement. Fillers here typically last around a year. Often we treat this area in combination with the chin or jaw filler, as supporting the adjacent regions can help the overall effect. Expect to refresh marionette line fillers approximately every 12 months, depending on how your individual anatomy and expressions break down the product.
(The above time frames are general estimates for hyaluronic acid fillers. Some other types of fillers – like calcium hydroxylapatite or PLLA collagen-stimulating fillers – have different longevity profiles. However, at Mindful Aesthetics we primarily use HA fillers for their safety, predictable duration, and the option to dissolve if needed.)
Maintaining Your Results with a Personalised Plan
Having an idea of filler longevity is helpful, but remember that maintenance is key to keeping your look consistent. Rather than waiting for all the filler to completely dissipate, a good strategy is to get “mini” top-ups periodically. At Mindful Aesthetics, we typically recommend scheduling a review before you think the filler has fully worn off – for example, coming in around 9–12 months after your filler treatment (or around 6 months for lips). During a maintenance appointment, our doctor will assess how much of the previous filler is still present and how your face is aging overall. If needed, we add a small amount to restore any volume that’s been lost. This proactive approach often means you can maintain the results indefinitely without the appearance ever drastically reverting.
Our ethos is personalized and ethical care. We keep detailed records (including photos) of your treatments, so we can track the rate at which your fillers are fading. Some patients may metabolize filler quickly and prefer more frequent touch-ups, while others can go longer between sessions – we tailor the plan to your needs. Rest assured, we never pressure you to top up unnecessarily. In fact, part of our doctor-led, mindful approach is knowing when to say “you’re not ready for more yet.” The goal is always to keep you looking natural. By timing maintenance correctly, we avoid the cycle of overfilling; you’ll just maintain a beautiful, refreshed appearance year-round.
Conclusion
Dermal fillers give fantastic, instant results, and with proper care they can be long-lasting. By understanding how long different areas generally last and planning your touch-ups accordingly, you can enjoy smooth skin and youthful contours continuously. At Mindful Aesthetics in Reigate, we not only deliver expert filler treatments but also partner with you in the long run – devising a maintenance plan that fits your face and your life. If you have any questions about how long a filler might last for you, or you’re considering your first treatment, contact our clinic for a friendly consultation. We’ll ensure you have all the information and support you need for results that are not only beautiful and natural, but also enduring.