How to Make Dermal Fillers Last Longer

Dermal fillers composed of hyaluronic acid have been the go-to treatment for fine lines, wrinkles and loss of facial volume. A few injections in key areas can radically diminish the appearance of laugh lines, deep forehead creases and sunken jowls. Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) underscore the popularity of this non-invasive facial rejuvenation treatment, with some 2.3 million procedures performed in 2014. Despite their amazing results, hyaluronic acid- based injectables like Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane, Hylaform and Belotero Balance have a relatively limited lifespan – sometimes as little as four months, depending  on the area treated.

Now, a recent study sheds light on how to maximize the effect of dermal fillers by combining them with Botox injections. This combined approach is called “chemodenervation,” in which the botulinum toxin prolongs the lifespan of soft tissue fillers by reducing muscle contractions. Researchers from the Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Medicine in Turkey confirmed that this one-two method slowed the filler’s degradation over time, yielding longer-lasting results in patients.

Fillers shown to last longer with Botox

For decades, plastic surgeons have favored fillers made with hyaluronic acid — a type of naturally occurring sugar found in our cartilage and skin. Because of their bio-compatible nature, HA fillers like Juvederm seldom produce allergic reactions, and – once injected – swell to cause a filling and smoothing effect. The only downside is their short duration, with most patients needing repeat treatments every 6 to 12 months, which can become costly over time.

Searching ways to extend the longevity of HA-based soft tissue fillers, the researchers focused on mitigating the rate of degradation, which is largely influenced by surrounding muscle movement and contractions. To test their theory, doctors injected small amounts of both HA-fillers and Botox under the skin of one group of rabbits and only filler in another segment.

Three months later, MRIs were performed to evaluate the rate of degradation and remaining filler in both groups. The test subjects that were given both Botox and filler showed 42 percent less degradation, and 50 percent more filler remaining compared to the subjects that did not receive Botox injections.

The outcome offers objective evidence that HA-based fillers can last much longer with the addition of Botox – a compelling reason to consider this age-defying duo.

Anti-aging skin care in Manhattan

Dr. B. Aviva Preminger features the latest in anti-aging injectables, including dermal fillers like Radiesse, Belotero and Juvederm. Each type of filler is suited for different areas of concern, whether you want plumper lips, fuller cheeks or want to smooth out deep nasolabial folds. Youthful volume and firmness are easier than ever to achieve with today’s dermal fillers, and can even be performed during your lunch break!

If you are interested in correcting age-related volume loss or are considering lip augmentation, and would like to consult with one of the top plastic surgeons in NYC, call 212.706.1900 to book a private consultation.