What Happens When You Stop With Facial Fillers?
Byline: Aesthetic Treatment Insights Team
Short Answer: Your Face Gradually Returns to Its Pre-Filler State
When you stop using facial fillers, your face will gradually return to its pre-treatment appearance as the filler material breaks down and is naturally absorbed by the body. The rate of this process varies depending on the type of filler used, your metabolism, and lifestyle factors. The treated areas slowly lose volume, and any added contours or smoothness will diminish over time.
How Long Do Fillers Last Before Wearing Off?
The longevity of facial fillers depends on their composition and the area treated. Here’s a general timeline for different types of fillers:
- Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane): Lasts 6 to 18 months.
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers (e.g., Radiesse): Lasts 12 to 18 months.
- Poly-L-lactic Acid Fillers (e.g., Sculptra): Lasts up to 2 years as it stimulates collagen production.
- Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Fillers (e.g., Bellafill): Semi-permanent and can last up to 5 years.
What Happens to Your Face After Fillers Wear Off?
As facial fillers wear off, the treated areas gradually lose volume, and the skin may return to its original state. Here’s what you can expect:
- Loss of Added Volume: The areas that were plumped, such as lips or cheeks, will become less full as the filler dissolves.
- Return of Lines and Wrinkles: Fine lines and wrinkles that were previously smoothed may become visible again.
- No Accelerated Aging: Stopping fillers will not make your face age faster. The skin simply returns to its natural aging process.
Will Your Skin Sag After Stopping Fillers?
Some people worry that stopping fillers will cause sagging or make their face look worse than before. In reality, the skin does not become permanently stretched from temporary fillers. Once the filler dissolves, the skin should return to its normal texture and elasticity, provided that the filler was not overused.
Does Your Face Become Dependent on Fillers?
No, your face does not become dependent on fillers. Facial fillers do not alter the underlying skin structure permanently. When you stop using them, your face simply returns to its natural state, and any loss of volume or smoothness is due to the natural aging process, not a dependency on fillers.
How to Transition Away from Fillers
If you want to stop using facial fillers, consider these tips to ensure a smooth transition:
- Gradual Reduction: Reduce the amount of filler used over several sessions instead of stopping abruptly.
- Maintain Skin Health: Use skincare products that support collagen production, such as retinoids and vitamin C serums.
- Alternative Treatments: Consider other non-invasive options like laser treatments, microneedling, or chemical peels to maintain a youthful appearance.
What If You Want to Reverse Fillers Quickly?
If you want to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or Restylane before they naturally wear off, you can opt for a procedure using hyaluronidase. This enzyme breaks down HA fillers within 24 to 48 hours, restoring the treated area to its natural state. For non-HA fillers like Sculptra or Radiesse, dissolving may not be possible, and time is the only solution.
Conclusion
When you stop using facial fillers, your face gradually returns to its natural appearance as the filler dissolves. The process is gradual and does not cause accelerated aging or sagging. If you decide to transition away from fillers, consider other skincare treatments and maintain a healthy skincare routine for long-term benefits.