This New Trick Makes Filler Last Longer

In the world of injectables and fillers, nothing lasts forever. But a new injection technique coined “chemodenervation” may be able to make your hyaluronic acid fillers last that much longer.

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In a report in the January issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, using hyaluronic acid fillers with botulinum toxin may prolong the results of the filler and here’s why. The neuromodulator reduces muscle activity in the treated area therefore slowing down the rate at which the filler degrades. Glen Burnie, MD, plastic surgeon Adam Summers, MD, agrees and says that neurotoxin injections can help achieve longer lasting results from dermal fillers.

“This is especially true in the glabellar region (the area between the eyebrows). In these patients, we inject fillers and a neurotoxin because, in our experience, the fillers will last up to 300 percent longer,” says Dr. Summers. “Optimal results are obtained with the filler is injected a week after the neurotoxin has started working. The combined results can be dramatic and the effects of the neurotoxin may actually last longer, too.”

So, the next time you’re due for a touch-up or a regular filler appointment, make sure to ask your dermatologist, plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon if they offer “chemodenervation” and if it’s right for you. “It’s important to make sure that if you have filler injected in the glabella region that only an expert injector do it since there is a greater risk of complications,” says Dr. Summers.