Lip fillers are your fast ticket to kissably smooth, full lips. In recent years, there’s been confusion around whether lip filler goes away on its own, and how long it lasts in general. If you’re considering lip filler, we’ll explain everything you need to know about its longevity and the factors that can impact your results. 

 

What Is Lip Filler? 

Lip filler is an injectable cosmetic treatment that enhances lip volume. Lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a humectant that also occurs naturally in the human body. The hyaluronic acid is cross-linked, which gives it a gel-like texture that defines the lips while maintaining their suppleness. 

Because hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring, enzymes in your body can break it down over time. This is why hyaluronic acid dermal fillers aren’t permanent, although the exact rate by which lip filler goes away will vary from person to person. 

 

 

How Long Do Lip Fillers Last?

Most lip filler brands promise that their lip-plumping action will last for up to a year, which can be a little misleading. 

However, this number comes from efficacy studies that only looked at 6 to 12-month outcomes! In those studies, researchers found that the majority of participants still maintained their lip fullness at the 6-month follow-up. That percentage dropped down to 50% at the 12-month follow-up. 

We have significantly less data on what happens to lip filler beyond that one-year mark. At SEV, our experience shows that there continues to be a lot of variation in how lip filler lasts both before and after those first 12 months. 

For some of our clients, filler disappears within a few months while others still have luscious-looking lips two years after treatment. 

In general, we always recommend coming in for touch-ups at least 6 months after your first injection. Touch-ups aren’t just an opportunity to add more filler! They’re a chance to adjust and refine your lip filler, to maintain a balanced look that will make you happy.

 

Lip filler

 

Factors That Impact Filler Longevity 

In recent years, some doctors have spoken out about cases where fillers, including lip filler, don’t break down completely even more than two years after treatment. 

This is because the way the body responds to fillers is different from person to person. For some, lip filler might go away completely within 6 months, while for others it can stay put for years, based on how your body metabolizes hyaluronic acid.

There are a few other important factors that impact how long your lip filler will last, including the specific type of cross-linking, the particle size, and the quantity of filler injected. 

For example, if you opt for a thicker and more plumping lip filler product like Juvéderm Ultra XC, it may last longer. The thicker formulas contain more cross-linking, which results in slower degradation time.

On the other hand, thinner, more fluid formulas like Juvéderm Volbella XC offer subtle enhancement and a reduction in lip wrinkles that might be faster to fade. 

For many, the hyaluronic acid injections also help increase lip hydration and stimulate collagen production, which can result in a more lasting but natural volume increase in the treated area. 

 

Where to Find an Experienced Lip Injector

Having the best lip filler results greatly depends on your treatment provider. It’s important you visit an aesthetic specialist who understands facial anatomy and can inject you flawlessly. 

Our certified and trained nurse injectors at SEV will ensure you achieve the most beautiful results, whether you’re aiming for full lips, an increase in lip hydration, or a reduction in lip line wrinkles. Book now, and we promise you you’ll want your lip filler to last as long as possible. 

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Lip Filler Go Away on Its Own?

Yes, in most cases, lip filler disappears on its own as your body’s enzymes slowly metabolize it. This process usually starts happening within 6 months to a year of treatment.

Does Lip Filler Ever Fully Go Away?

For most patients, the lip filler will eventually go away completely. However, there are instances where some remnants of filler stay in the lips beyond the time period promised by manufacturers. Consider having your filler dissolved by a reputable med spa.

When Does Lip Filler Go Away?

For many people, lip filler will disappear or at least begin to do so within 12 months of treatment. For some, it may disappear much sooner, while for others it can last a lot longer.

How long do lip fillers last the first time?

Even when it’s your first time, lip fillers will normally last for between six to 12 months, and in some cases even longer.