Is it true that hyaluronic acid fillers never goes away?

I appreciate your question. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that naturally occurs in the body, aiding in skin hydration. When HA fillers are placed into the dermal structure, the body breaks down the HA over time. It does not remain in the system indefinitely, which is why filler treatments need to be repeated periodically to maintain your positive results. The rate at which the body metabolizes the HA will vary somewhat from patient to patient. The rate is based on how much filler is used, the type of filler, the treatment location, and the speed at which the patient's body dissolves the substance. The body also metabolizes the active ingredient in Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite), but does so more slowly. That is why Radiesse tends to last longer than most fillers. Another difference is that Radiesse cannot be manually dissolved like HA fillers. Always work with an experienced, board-certified injector to ensure an optimal outcome with every treatment.

Hi, thanks for your question. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an already naturally occurring substance in the body, that your body will eventually absorb and eliminate naturally. It does get eliminated. It takes anywhere between 6-12 months for your body to absorb and eliminate hyaluronic acid, after which your treated area will return to the way it was before your filler treatment. Radiesse is composed of calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA). CaHA is also made up of naturally occurring elements in the body (calcium and phosphates) that will eventually be metabolized by your body. Because of the way Radiesse is manufactured, it will take longer for your body to metabolize CaHA, anywhere from 1-2 years as opposed to 6-12 months with HA. Both filler types will eventually be eliminated from your body one will just take longer than the other. Typically, we recommend HA fillers over more permanent fillers because if for whatever reason you had a reaction to your filler or you didn't like your result, HA based fillers are the only types of fillers that can be dissolved with hyaluronidase. Radiesse on the other hand cannot be dissolved once injected. Please speak to your provider if you have any other questions or concerns about dermal fillers.

Hello,
Thank you for your question.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are not permanent. The body typically breaks them down within 6-12 months depending on the specific filler used, consistency (G prime) of HA filler and the location where it was injected.
I hope this helps. Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon