What can you do to help your injectable fillers last longer?

Dermal fillers are one of the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic treatments in the country year after year, and it's easy to see why. Fillers are versatile treatments that can not only temporarily smooth away lines and wrinkles, but also restore lost facial volume and plump and reshape the lips.

That said, injectable treatments like dermal fillers are temporary and will gradually fade away, requiring occasional maintenance treatments. However, there are a few steps you can take to help make dermal fillers last longer.

Choose a reputable provider

The quality of your filler results can only be as good as your provider is experienced. Now is not the time to bargain shop for the lowest price in town. Instead, choose a filler provider based on his or her professional training, experience, reputation and other important credentials. Ideally, injectable fillers are performed in a plastic surgeon's office by a provider who understands both proper injection technique and aesthetics.

While there are many fraudulent providers out there who may advertise a seemingly unbeatable price, you may not be getting the product you think you are paying for. A few red flags include a questionable or nonexistent website, lack of reviews or before and after photos and prices that sound too good to be true.

Do your research prior to scheduling a filler appointment to ensure not only your health and safety but the best possible results as well.

Follow after-care guidelines

Immediately after getting fillers, you will be asked not to rub or massage the treated area for the first 24 to 48 hours, as well as avoid vigorous exercise for the first day or so. It can also be helpful to avoid sleeping on your side or stomach for the first day or so after getting fillers so you don't put unnecessary pressure on the treated area.

Other aftercare instructions that are crucial to follow include limiting exposure to sun and heat and limiting alcohol intake for a few days after your appointment. Closely following all of these guidelines can help to ensure optimal results.

Use the proper skin care routine

While fillers can help to give you a younger look, they work best when paired with the proper skin care routine for your specific skin type and concerns. Following a basic skin care routine with the right cleanser, moisturizer, anti-aging treatment products and sunscreen can go a long way in terms of helping to keep your skin looking youthful and radiant.

Talk with your skin care professional about the best products and ingredients for your skin's needs, and stick to your prescribed regimen for several weeks to start noticing a difference in your skin's tone and texture.

Practice healthy lifestyle habits

In addition to following the proper anti-aging skin care routine, making healthy lifestyle changes can have a considerable impact on your skin's health and appearance, in turn, helping to prolong your filler results.

These lifestyle factors include things like:

• Eating a healthy diet and avoiding excess sugar consumption
• Avoiding stress, which is known to accelerate the aging process
• Getting enough sleep
• Drinking enough water
• Wearing daily sunscreen and avoiding prolonged sun exposure
• Not smoking or using other tobacco products

Making just a few healthy lifestyle changes can help to slow the aging process, helping your skin look naturally younger for longer.

Follow a personalized maintenance plan

It is important to note that no injectable treatment will last forever, and some types and brands of filler will last longer than others. Add to this the fact that everyone metabolizes these products at a different rate, and it's easy to understand the importance of customizing your maintenance plan to best suit your specific situation.

Work with your filler provider to create a maintenance plan that will help you maximize your results and find a schedule that works well for you. With the right timing, you can seamlessly maintain the same desired look without having unwanted gaps in between each treatment.

How long do dermal fillers last?

Dermal fillers can last anywhere from six months to two years – sometimes even more, depending on the type. However, most hyaluronic acid fillers – one of the most popular dermal filler options – tend to fall within the 6- to 18-month range. Hyaluronic acid fillers are also the only type of filler that can be dissolved before wearing away on their own if desired.

The expected longevity of your fillers will also depend on the specific brand, the location in which they're injected, your metabolism, how frequently you exercise and other factors.