How long do lip fillers last?
Why do lip fillers wear off over time?
Almost all lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in your skin and binds water. In a filler, the hyaluronic acid is ‘cross-linked’: the molecules are linked together so the gel is firm enough to add volume and is not broken down within a few days.
Even so, your body gradually clears the gel. Enzymes in the tissue that naturally break down hyaluronic acid slowly undo the links. Lips are also one of the most mobile parts of the face: you talk, eat, drink and smile all day. As a result, filler in the lips lasts shorter on average than filler in calmer areas such as the chin or cheeks.
How long does filler last in different areas?
The table below gives average values for hyaluronic acid fillers. They are indications: for some people results last shorter, for others noticeably longer.
| Area | Average visible duration |
|---|---|
| Lips (including Russian lips) | 6–12 months |
| Non-surgical nose correction | 9–12 months, sometimes longer |
| Tear trough | 9–12 months, often longer |
| Cheeks | 12–18 months |
| Chin and jawline | 12–18 months |
Which factors determine how long your lip filler lasts?
Nobody can predict in advance exactly how long a lip filler will last for you. We do know which factors have an influence.
- The product: lip fillers differ in firmness and degree of cross-linking. Brands such as Juvéderm, Stylage and Revolax each have their own lip variants with slightly different durations.
- The amount: with 1 ml, something usually remains visible for longer than with 0.5 ml, simply because there is more product to break down. More is not automatically better; the amount should suit your face.
- First or repeat treatment: after a first treatment the effect often fades a little faster. With repeat treatments, small remnants are sometimes still present, which makes the result seem to last longer.
- Your metabolism: people with a fast metabolism, for example due to a lot of intensive exercise, sometimes notice filler fading sooner. The scientific evidence for this is limited.
- Smoking and sun exposure: these affect skin quality and are associated with a shorter duration.
- Technique: calm, even placement of small amounts gives a more natural and stable result than a lot of product in one spot.
How does the result change after treatment?
Right after treatment your lips look fuller than the final result, because there is also swelling. It is therefore sensible to judge the result only after about two weeks.
| Period | What you usually see |
|---|---|
| Day 1–3 | Swelling, peaking after 24 to 48 hours; sometimes a bruise |
| Week 1–2 | Swelling settles; after about 2 weeks you see the final result |
| Month 3–6 | Lips gradually become a little softer and less full |
| Month 6–12 | Most of the filler has been broken down |
How can you tell your lip filler is fading?
Lip filler fades gradually, not overnight. Most people first notice that the outline of the lip border becomes less defined and that the lips feel softer. After that the volume slowly decreases, often first in the centre of the upper lip, where the lips move most.
It is normal for your lips to eventually look like your original lips again. For most people, one or a few treatments with an appropriate amount do not permanently stretch the skin.
When does a new treatment make sense?
A new treatment makes sense when you notice the volume has clearly decreased, usually after 6 to 12 months. A small amount, such as 0.5 ml, is often enough to maintain the result.
Topping up repeatedly at short intervals is not recommended. Because invisible remnants can remain, topping up too often can lead to lips that gradually become too full, or to filler moving beyond the lip border. A doctor therefore first assesses what is still present before adding anything, and may advise waiting a little longer.
Can lip filler be removed earlier?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved with the enzyme hyaluronidase. The effect is usually visible within 24 to 48 hours; sometimes a second session is needed. That is reassuring if you are unhappy with the result, and it is important in the rare case of a complication such as a blocked blood vessel. In rare cases hyaluronidase can cause an allergic reaction, so the doctor discusses this with you beforehand.
How does Zalat Clinics approach this?
At Zalat Clinics in Rotterdam-Zuid, lip filler is placed by a BIG-registered doctor using CE-marked products. During the free consultation you discuss which amount and which product suit you. Lip filler is available from €125 for 0.5 ml, and the check-up after two weeks is free. Should dissolving ever be needed, this is possible from €150 per session. The final price is agreed during the consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Do lip fillers last longer after several treatments?
Often, but not always. With repeat treatments, small remnants of earlier filler may remain, so the result seems to last longer. That is also why it is wise not to top up too soon.
Does 1 ml last longer than 0.5 ml?
Usually something remains visible for longer with 1 ml, because there is more product. However, the choice should mainly depend on what suits your lips and face. For a first treatment, 0.5 ml is often enough.
Does lip filler disappear completely?
Yes, hyaluronic acid is broken down by the body. Visibly, most of it has usually gone after 6 to 12 months, although small remnants can stay in the tissue longer than you can see or feel.
How long do Russian lips last?
Russian lips is an injection technique, not a different product. The duration is therefore similar to a regular lip filler: usually 6 to 12 months.