Dermal fillers continue to be one of the most popular cosmetic treatments year after year — and it’s easy to see why. With no surgery or downtime, fillers can achieve a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion in one quick and easy appointment. However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing.
When fillers no longer achieve the desired outcome that they once did, you may be dealing with something called filler fatigue. Learn more about what filler fatigue is below, as well as what you can do to get the results you want when fillers are missing the mark.
What Is Filler Fatigue?
Filler fatigue happens when injectable fillers are no longer able to produce the same results that they once did. This generally happens after getting fillers repeatedly over a long period of time, though there can be other factors that contribute to filler fatigue.
If your injections don’t seem to last as long as usual or you don’t see the same level of results you used to, you could have filler fatigue.
What Causes Filler Fatigue?
There are several factors that can cause filler fatigue. Improper filler placement and/or using too much product can cause an overfilled appearance and signs of filler fatigue. However, it is not always the fault of the provider. Filler fatigue can be a reality even when working with a skilled and experienced practitioner.
Other causes of filler fatigue include:
- Getting fillers too frequently. Getting more filler added before you really need it can lead you to filler fatigue. Stick to your provider’s recommended filler schedule to avoid this.
- Using the wrong type of filler. Work with a reputable provider to ensure that he or she recommends the proper type of filler for your specific treatment area(s).
- Having unrealistic expectations. Remember that fillers are not going to be able to achieve the same dramatic results that a surgical procedure like a facelift can. Understanding the limitations of any cosmetic treatment is important before moving forward.
Fillers vs. Facelift: How to Know Which Is Right for You
Many people choose non-surgical anti-wrinkle treatments like fillers before considering a surgical procedure such as a facelift, brow lift or eyelid lift. However, fillers cannot achieve the same dramatic results that facial plastic surgery can. While fillers may be suitable at first, they are unable to correct moderate to severe skin laxity, wrinkles and creases that tend to develop over time, no matter how many injectable treatments you get.
In this case, a surgical procedure may be the most effective solution. Consult a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon to get a better idea of which non-surgical or surgical treatment options could be right for you.
How to Avoid Filler Fatigue
While filler fatigue can inevitably happen on its own over time, there are ways to avoid it for as long as possible.
- Always work with a reputable provider who has plenty of experience administering injectable treatments.
- Use hyaluronic acid fillers whenever possible, as these can be dissolved if necessary.
- Stick to your recommended filler schedule.
- Maintain realistic expectations for your filler results.
Dr. David Kaufman earned a bachelor of science degree from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, graduating with distinction, the highest academic honor. As an active duty naval special warfare officer, he served our nation for four years, including duty in Operation Desert Storm. He then attended Harvard Medical School, receiving his medical doctor degree in 1996. From there, he entered and completed postdoctoral surgical training in a combined general and plastic surgery residency at Stanford University Medical Center.
A board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Kaufman’s diverse surgical experience and skill enables him to choose procedures and techniques to best suit each patient. Consider him and his practice, Kaufman Plastic Surgery, if you are looking for a plastic surgeon in the Sacramento area.
