How long does lip filler stay in your system after removal?

Question

I've had lip fillers done over the course of 6 years. At this point I probably have about 4 syringes of juvaderm. I haven't had any injections done in the last 2 years however my lips are still very plump and there's still a lot of filler left. I'm scared of the pain to get them dissolved. How long will this filler still stay in my system? How long until they dissolve naturally. I know it says that it'll take about 12 months but for me it's clearly much longer than that.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, Most Doctors will start with one-syringe to avoid over-filling. These fillers, (Volbella, Restylane, Juvederm) are good to create a symmetrical and full lip. PDO Nova threads can also be used to improve shape and also provide lift. Fat or implants are a permanent alternative. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Also, check out my new line of Emerage Cosmetics, it has at home kits that you can do from the comfort of your own home. Best, Dr. Emer

Brian Maloney, MD, FACS · Answer

Congratulations. At the end of the day, all of our bodies will hold onto the fillers differently. It sounds like yours really likes it. Our bodies will lay down a small amount of collagen, but generally for most patients that is a small amount. I have seen patients hold onto it for 5-6 years. If you develop asymmetries they can be dissolved.

Rosy Sandhu, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Hyaluronic acid fillers, depending on their cross-linking can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years at times. Your body's own hyaluronidase enzyme will continue to slowly break it down over time. There is usually some natural collagen production every time you get the filler injections which also adds to the plumpness. Unless you are having any issues with the filler, I would recommend letting it break down naturally over the next few months. Hyluronidase injections to dissolve the HA fillers are quite effective and have some discomfort similar to the lip filler injections.

Hope that helps.

Best
Dr Sandhu

Hope that helps.

Best
Dr Sandhu

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Lip filler can last anywhere from 6-12 months, depending on the patient. I would recommend just waiting it out, you could try massaging daily to speed the process up. The product that dissolves lip filler can create scar tissue, which cannot be corrected.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear MV91,
juvederm is hyaluronic acid which is normally produced in the human body. Most of my patients have results that last at least 6 months. If you have any issues with your fillers, I suggest you to discuss it with your injector. 
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  For most patients, dissolving Juvederm will occur in the matter of hours, if appropriate hyaluronidase dosing is used.  Hope this helps.

Mani Khoshnejad, MD · Answer

Hello, 
Thank you for your question. Naturally your body will store some of the filler and the length a filler lasts is depending on the type of filler you received last. When you dissolve the filler it is fairly quick and easy and can take 1-3 days to dissolve. I always use topical numbing cream prior to injections to help with the pain.

Cristyn Watkins, MD · Answer

Injectable fillers contain hyaluronic acid which draws in water to the area and plumps the tissue. Some people’s bodies dissolve fillers in 6-12 months and some people retain a small amount for years.  Dissolving filler is a very quick procedure but it does involve some discomfort, similar to all lip injections. I would recommend an in depth consultation with your current Injector to explain to you the options for dissolving any of your possible remaining filler.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Usually a filler like juvederm lasts about  nine months to a year, however sometimes  it can last longer. Because juvederm is hyaluronic acid which our body produces it you have nothing to worry about. If you have concerns  and you wish to remove it  you will need hyaluronidase injections. Best of Luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically lip filler gradually is metabolized over 6 to 9 months.  If you still have filler present your injector can dissolve it with hyaluronidase.  As the filler is made of components naturally produced by your body, there is no harm in having it present.