Can filler stretch the skin and make it worse over time?

Question

I always had tendency to visible nasolabial folds even as a teenager, but nothing out of the usual. I feel they have become more prominent now to the point where I am considering a filler. I have heard that filler can stretch skin over time and make it worse and so you need to continue using more filler. Is it true? Are there any alternatives to filler to reduce appearance of nasolabial folds? I do not like the idea of having to depend on filler for 30 years+ when I am only 25 years old.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

This is an interesting and not uncommon question. I also often hear "if I stop doing fillers/botox, will my face fall." The answer to both is no. There is no appreciable stretching of the skin or any long term experience to suggest this. Since we've been injecting fillers for over a decade with millions of patients with different skin types all over the world, we have yet to see or hear reports of this. Many people find that Botox or Fillers last longer over time, and I've had many patients who stop their treatment for various reasons, and when we assess them years later, they still look better than had they not done any treatment at all. Most important is to see a highly trained and experienced cosmetic physician such as a dermatologist for optimal safety and results.

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

No, fillers will not "stretch" your skin over time. Hyaluronic acid based fillers like Restylane Refyne and Defyne are my preferred treatment for nasolabial folds. I would combine this with a good at home skincare regimen which should include antioxidants, sun protection, retinol, and peptides.

Melissa Toyos, MD · Answer

The answer is that if filler is dramatically overdone it is possible to stretch skin or even compromise blood flow. Fortunately, with a reputable injector, this result is highly unlikely. More commonly, the wrinkle is filled from below in a very natural fashion with the filler and the injection and the material inside the skin typically trigger fibroblast activity within the skin that can naturally "fill in" the wrinkle over time.

Can filler stretch the skin and make it worse over time?

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Can filler stretch the skin and make it worse over time?

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.