Does filler need to be removed from your face prior to a facelift?

No, filler does not have to be removed before a facelift. However, you should be aware that the areas treated with filler may lose some volume as the filler dissolves. Voluma can last up to two years.

Many patients have fillers prior to getting facelift.  In my practice, I am able to perform a good facelift without removing any previously injected fillers. Facelift will tighten the SMAS that improves facial laxity.  Fillers and fat grafting are used in conjunction with facelift to improve the volume deficit. 

Thank you for your question.  This is one I hear quite often from my patients.  The short answer to your question is, no, filler does not need to be removed before a facelift.  The filler you have already have placed should not affect the surgical procedure.  The only caveat is you may have a slight deflation in the cheeks when your Voluma subsides.  Voluma typically will last one year, and we recommend having a touch up at that point. Be sure to consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who specializes in facelifts and filler placement.  Discuss your concerns with him/her about your filler placement, as well. I hope that this helps!-David Gilpin

Thank you for your question. Voluma lasts on average a good 2 years but is not necessary to be removed prior to a facelift. 

I do not think that fillers should be dissolved prior to a facelift unless fat transfer is going to be performed at the same time as the facelift.

In general, no you do not have to have filler removed before a facelift. The only area of concern to me is if a patient is overfilled in the cheeks, this may affect the lift and lead to prolonged swelling. Juvederm Voluma can last up to two year, but 12-18 months is more typical.

Hello and thank you for your question.  A facelift can be performed without removing filler prior to surgery.  Voluma may last up to two years.   If good technique is used,
a facelift can be done with minimal scarring and can result in a natural look, not
over-done look, with rejuvenation of your face.  Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results. The most important aspect
is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek
consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate
you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

In all likelihood the filler does not need to be removed before a facelift. Chances are you will continue to do fillers after a facelift so it should have no impact on the procedure. 

Hi haverim and thank you for your question.  Fillers do not need to be 'removed' prior to a facelift as they will pose little to no effect on the results of your surgery.  Many patients will actually elect to have fillers or fat injected into the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, cheeks and pre-jowl sulcus at the time of their face lift for a complete facial rejuvenation.  I would encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns, determine your candidacy and to best advise you/answer any additional questions that you might have.  I hope that you find this helpful and I wish you all of the best!

Thank you for your question. No, fillers do not need to be removed prior to facelift and do not interfere significantly with the procedure itself.Pejman Aflaki, MDJohns Hopkins-trained plastic surgeon