In part 4 we discussed the non-surgical facelift as an option to get rid of jowls. The non-surgical facelift is a safe, affordable way to get rid of a drooping face, but it isn’t permanent. This article will help you get the most out of your non-surgical facelift.
While more cost-effective and generally consisting of shorter recovery times with fewer side effects, the non-surgical facelift doesn’t last forever. Both dermal fillers and botulinum toxin (botox) treatments certainly have a shelf life. Over time, the body breaks down fillers. Botox wears away.
The rate at which fillers deteriorate depends on several factors. Fillers in some parts of the face won’t last as long as others. The composition of the filler also matters. Finally, the amount of filler used plays a role. It takes longer for the body to break down more filler.
The rate at which these treatments begin to lose efficacy varies person to person, also. Because dermal fillers are biocompatible, the body will slowly metabolize the product. That rate of metabolization varies between person to person.
Environmental factors and the proper care and maintenance of fillers also play a large role in how long a Non-surgical face lift lasts. There are certain behaviors that will prolong the fillers, while there are others that will cause them to degrade more quickly.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
When it comes to how long dermal fillers last, there are three main categories. Fillers can last:
- 6 months or less
- 6-12 months
- 12-24 months
The fillers that the body metabolize the quickest tend to be the more gel-like fillers commonly used to treat fine lines, wrinkles and shallow furrows. The fillers that last the longest tend to be ones used to treat more severe volume loss.
The area the fillers are injected also contribute to how long dermal fillers last. Fillers used to add volume to the lips typically last the shortest amount of time. Dermal fillers in the cheeks and chin tend to last the longest.
How to Make Dermal Fillers Last Longer
To ensure your fillers last as long as possible, it’s necessary to adopt habits to protect them while shedding ones that help metabolize them. Here are some of the best ways to make sure you get the most life out of your fillers:
Avoid Getting Too Much Sun
UV Rays dry out and, if you spend too long exposed to them, damage the skin. This damage also forces the body to repair the sun damage. Ultimately, this means that the body is kicking into overdrive, which metabolizes dermal fillers more quickly.
Try to avoid venturing out during peak hours or staying in the sun for long periods of time. A high SPF sunblock will help prevent damage to the skin, but a wide-brimmed hat is even better!
Invest in Good Skin Care Products
A good skin care routine can work wonders for maintaining healthy skin and dermal fillers. When it comes to fillers, the real problem is that some of the ingredients in cheaper products can irritate skin and decrease its overall health.
Avoid products that feature fragrances. Ingredients like formaldehyde, used commonly as a cheap antibacterial, have the potential to harm skin. Also look out for Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laurath sulfate (SLES), both of which help make skin care products easier to spread, but both of which may ultimately damage skin.
Incorporate a Retinol Gel
Retinol is derived from Vitamin A, and it an important part of any routine focused on encouraging the body to create and strengthen collagen. Because retinol helps encourage collagen, it promotes healthier skin, which in turn makes dermal fillers last longer.
Consult your aesthetician before adopting a retinol gel. They’ll be able to show you one that works best with the particular fillers they used.
Eat (and Drink) Healthy Foods
Beautiful skin is rooted in healthy habits, diet included. Avoid sugars and processed foods, which bind to collagen and ultimately help flush it from the body. It’s also important to stay hydrated. The body needs water to maintain healthy skin.
All of this is easily accomplished by making sure that your diet includes plenty of fruit. Not only does fruit contain a lot of water, but it’s also rich in antioxidants and can satisfy your sweet tooth. Avoid products that dehydrate you, like highly caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
It should also go without saying that you also shouldn’t smoke.
Follow All Aftercare Instructions
Successful and long-lasting fillers treatments depend on a good recovery. While the side effects and downtime are minimal after non-surgical facelifts, appropriate care in the days immediately following your procedure can help maximize your dermal fillers.
Follow your aesthetician’s care instructions! They’ll be able to provide you with excellent resources to care for your new, youthful face.
Dreading the Droop?
Ready to restore your youthful face? Contact Dr. Farmah and his team of trained aestheticians and let them develop a personalized jowl treatment plan just for you!
