How Will You Know When It’s Time to “Refresh” Your Injectables?

Wondering whether it’s time to get a retreatment or touch-up for your injectables? New Jersey’s The Peer Group knows that patients are often curious about how they will know when they should check-in for a retreatment appointment.

Neuromodulators like BOTOX® and facial fillers like Juvéderm® are both temporary treatments, so if you’re noticing that your skin doesn’t look as supple as it was or wrinkles seem to have returned, it might simply be because it’s time for a new round of injections. The average lifespan of most neuromodulators is three to four months, while the longevity of dermal fillers varies depending on the type you use. Fillers may provide volume that lasts anywhere from six months to two years.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Isaac Starker says, “Non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as dermal fillers and neuromodulators have become increasingly popular for their ability to enhance one's appearance without the need for invasive surgery. These treatments are effective at smoothing wrinkles, restoring volume, and providing a more youthful look. However, their effects are not permanent, and over time, you may notice the need for touch-up or maintenance injections to maintain your desired results. With that being said, only a filler or neuromodulator injector will be able to determine how you would benefit from a maintenance treatment.”

Continue reading for some of the possible signs that you may need to have a maintenance treatment for your injectables.

Noticeable Lines and Wrinkles Are Showing

Neuromodulators work by relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles. When the effects of these treatments wear off, you'll notice the return of your unwanted wrinkles and lines. This is a clear sign that it's time for a neuromodulator touch-up to regain the smoother, more youthful appearance achieved with the initial treatment. The same goes for fillers, although these work by adding volume rather than relaxing muscles. You might start to notice nasolabial folds, lip lines, or other wrinkles showing again as the filler is metabolized and breaks down over time.

Volume Loss or Deflation

One of the primary signs that it's time for a filler touch-up is the loss of volume in the treated area. Dermal fillers are used to restore volume and plump the skin. Over time, your body gradually absorbs the filler material, leading to a reduction in volume and fullness. You may notice that the area treated with fillers—such as the cheeks, lips, or under-eye area—starts to look less full and more deflated. You may notice that the areas that were much plumper or lifted after fillers—such as your lips or cheeks—seem much more deflated. Since you’ve grown accustomed to a more youthful, smoother, or rejuvenated appearance, the contrast may be more noticeable. If you’re not certain whether your wrinkles actually look more noticeable or there has been a loss of volume, look at pictures off yourself taken days or weeks after your last appointment for fillers or neuromodulators and compare them to more recent photos.

You Want to Enhance Your Bone Structure

Due to genetics, some people have a weaker bone structure or lack of fullness on areas such as the jawline or cheeks. If you want to fully restructure or transform your face more, it might be time to go in for a retreatment.

Gradual Aging

Aging is an ongoing process, and while non-surgical treatments can provide impressive results, they cannot halt the natural aging process. As you continue to age, your facial features and skin will change. Touch-up treatments can help you keep pace with these changes and continue to look your best.

Changes in Lifestyle or Health

Changes in your lifestyle, health, or skincare routine can also impact the longevity of your filler or neuromodulator results. Factors such as weight fluctuations, sun exposure, smoking, and illness can affect how your body metabolizes the treatment. If you've experienced significant changes in any of these areas, it may be a sign that a touch-up is needed to maintain your results.

Makeup Doesn’t Look the Same

When you’re accustomed to wearing makeup, you may notice some changes in the way the makeup sets on your face if injectables have worn off, or you may have to apply it differently from how you normally would to achieve the look you want. If this is an issue, consider a consultation to determine the best approach to regaining a smoother surface.

Want to learn more about injectables? Contact New Jersey’s The Peer Group for more advice on these treatments. Call 973-822-3000 or fill out a contact form to request a consultation if you would like to learn more about fillers and neuromodulators.