Under-eye fillers typically last 6 to 18 months, depending on the type, metabolism, and lifestyle. Juvéderm Volbella lasts up to 18 months, while Restylane-L lasts 9 to 12 months. To extend longevity, hydrate well, avoid excessive exercise, use SPF 30+, and schedule touch-ups every 6 to 9 months.
Average Duration of Under-Eye Fillers
Average duration of the under-eye fillers will be in the range of 6 to 18 months. 65% of patients, according to clinical research, have a visible effect after 9 months of treatment, and 22% report breakdowns in less than 6 months due to metabolic disparities.
Juvéderm Volbella XC, with its Vycross technology, has a reported retention rate of 75% at 12 months, while Restylane-L maintains volume for an average of 9-12 months, with a standard deviation of ±2.8 months.
A 2022 report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons showed that patients over 40 years had a 17% longer life of the filler compared to younger patients.
International Journal of Dermatology studies also indicate that the degradation rate in patients with >1,800 kcal/day is about 29% higher than average.
In one double-blind clinical trial, deep-plane injections given to 300 patients showed a duration of 11.3 months, while the superficial injection provided a duration of 7.4 months. Cannula techniques were observed to have increased longevity by about 12-15% as compared to injections with needles.
According to research from the Journal of Cosmetic Science, patients who are exposed to direct sunlight for more than 10 hours a week can experience a reduction in filler retention by 22-30%, since UV radiation increases the degradation of hyaluronic acid due to the breaking of molecular bonds.
 Not just helping in retaining the results, sleeping sufficiently and eating right not only do great to your entire health, but also stretch filler results. For example, eat more foods containing vitamin C and E to boost their value that will give good .
Other factors would include hydration; people who drink at least 2.5 liters of water a day show a 10-15% increase in filler retention with hyaluronic acid being hydrophilic.
In fact, a 2023 consumer survey from the American Academy of Dermatology showed that 78% of patients who used medical-grade eye creams containing peptides and antioxidants extended their filler longevity by 3 to 6 months compared to those who did not incorporate supportive skincare.
On average, under-eye fillers cost $600 to $1,500 per session alone in the United States. Indeed, superior brands do cost a little more, including Juvéderm Volbella XC, which can be about 20% more expensive than similar products, like Restylane-L, due to its longevity.
At this level, patients who need a touch-up every 6 months may spend approximately $1,200 to $3,000 in a year, while others whose fillers last closer to 18 months may need only to set aside $800 to $1,500 per year.
With longer-acting fillers, for example, the cost will be 25-35% more economical over a 2-year period. Incorrect injection techniques result in a 40-60% loss in filler volume within the first 3 months, leading to added correction costs.
Different Types of Fillers and Their Longevity
The most common category is hyaluronic acid fillers, which dominate over 90% of the market for tear trough treatments. Among those, Restylane-L and Restylane Eyelight last from 9 to 12 months, at a degradation rate of 8-10% each month. In contrast, Juvéderm Volbella, prepared with a denser cross-linked structure, lasts for 12 to 18 months by degrading at the reduced rate of 5-7% monthly. A study in the Journal of Aesthetic Medicine documented that patients injected with Juvéderm Volbella retained 60% of their filler volume at the 12-month mark, compared to 45% for Restylane-L users at the same point.
Radiesse is manufactured with calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres and can last anywhere between 12 and 24 months. It has a very progressive degradation curve which significantly slows after the first 6 months. According to the study published in 2021 in the American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery, after 18 months, 75% of the patients treated with Radiesse were still presenting visible improvement versus 52% of HA fillers users in the same timeline. Even more long-lasting is Sculptra, manufactured from poly-L-lactic acid, or PLLA, whose effects may last as long as 24 months or even more. Sculptra involves multiple sessions-a series of three treatments usually 4-6 weeks apart-and is thus more expensive up front, averaging $1,500 to $2,500 per treatment cycle.
Traditional HA fillers, for example, Belotero Balance, have less cross-linking and last only 6-9 months, while the new hybrid fillers, such as Teosyal Redensity II-which incorporates antioxidants and amino acids to limit degradation-maintain results for 12-15 months. A clinical trial in Dermatologic Surgery reported that Teosyal Redensity II maintained above 50% of its original volume at 15 months, whereas Juvéderm Ultra XC demonstrated only 38% at the same period. Many patients who want longevity prefer Teosyal or Volbella over regular Restylane, although these products are 10-20% more expensive per syringe.
Metabolism certainly plays a big role in how long fillers will last, with individuals below 35 years having a breakdown rate of 20-35% faster than those over 50 years due to higher enzymatic activity and collagen turnover. One study followed 500 patients over a wide range of age groups and determined that the degradation of HA fillers in younger patients, between 25-35 years, occurred within 8-10 months, while for those over 50+, volume was maintained as long as 15 months. This difference is further exaggerated in athletic patients, where high-intensity exercise increases the activity of hyaluronidase enzymes, accelerating breakdown by 25-40%.
Longer-acting fillers will reduce annual maintenance costs by up to 35 percent in the U.S., where fillers have a typical average cost of $600 to $1,500 per syringe, due to less frequency for touch-ups. A person who is taking Juvéderm Volbella-the cost per syringe being $750-can repeat the treatments after 12 to 18 months, but Restylane-L, for $600 a syringe, requires touch-ups in 9-12 months and thus has a total cost estimate of between $1,500 and $2,000 for three years. Patients who go for Sculptra or Radiesse invest $3,000+ upfront but often avoid annual reinjections for at least two years, which makes them more extended durability with fewer maintenance visits.
Factors That Influence Filler Longevity
In fact, studies have shown that people with a high BMR break down fillers 20 to 40 percent faster than people with a slower metabolism. In one clinical study of 300 patients, for example, researchers found that people who exercised at a high level more than four times a week reduced the filler lifespan by 35 percent, with results lasting an average of 7.2 months compared to 11.1 months for less active patients. For instance, patients with a naturally high metabolic rate-for example, patients with hyperthyroidism or naturally lean body composition-exhibited as high as a 50 percent degradation rate of the filler compared to those patients who had a slower metabolic rate.
In the same way, one study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2022 reported that Juvéderm Volbella, formulated with Vycross technology, remains effective for an average of 13.5 months, while less cross-linked classic Restylane stays effective for an average of 9.2 months. Besides, the median duration of calcium hydroxylapatite-based fillers, such as Radiesse, ranged from 15 to 24 months-on average, almost twice as long as that of many hyaluronic acid-based fillers.
Fillers that are injected deeper into the orbicularis oculi muscle fat compartments, last 20 to 30 percent longer when compared to shallow injections. A retrospective series of 500 patients revealed 11.4 months average durations of the fillers when put in the deep plane, on the other side, it takes 7.8 months where the injection occurred superficially. Moreover, the use of a cannula instead of a needle reduced the chances of early degrading of the filler by 18%. On the contrary, improper techniques for injection result in speedy degradation, asymmetry, and such complications as the Tyndall effect, occurring in 5 to 7 percent of cases when fillers are placed too close to the surface of skin.
UV radiation degrades hyaluronic acid by inducing oxidative stress, which may reduce the filler longevity by as much as 22 percent in individuals with increased sun exposure. An American Academy of Dermatology clinical report said patients who applied sunscreen regularly with SPF 30 or higher retained the results of their fillers an average of 3.5 months longer than those who did not. This was further exacerbated in smokers, who demonstrated a 28% increase in filler breakdown rate due to increased enzymatic activity responsible for the breakdown of collagen and hyaluronic acid. Antioxidant skincare routines involving the use of vitamin C and retinol were linked to a 15 percent increase in filler longevity.
A questionnaire among aesthetic practitioners revealed that, on average, patients who received 1 milliliter of filler had a duration of effect lasting 9 to 12 months, while those patients who received 1.5 to 2 milliliters had longevity extended to 14 to 18 months. There is a reported increase of 30 percent in overall filler longevity in patients who scheduled maintenance treatments every 6 to 9 months compared to patients who waited for complete degradation before reinjection. Overcorrection or overtreatment with a filler may present as unwanted swelling, migration of the product, or the use of hyaluronidase to dissolve unwanted product in 8 to 12 percent of cases.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers vs. Other Options
The HA fillers differ in the duration of action, depending on the brand and formulation. It could be from 9 to 12 months for Restylane-L, while Juvéderm Volbella lasts between 12 to 18 months, and Teosyal Redensity II, from 10 to 14 months. In this sense, one study published in 2021 in the Journal of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery noted that 64% of the patients treated with Juvéderm Volbella were still showing visible improvement at 12 months of follow-up, whereas only 47% of Restylane-L patients had retained significant volume at the same mark.
Generally, Radiesse may last anywhere from 12 months up to 24 months, whereas Sculptra can last upwards of 24 months or even more-it would also depend on the number of treatment sessions. A 2022 clinical analysis among 400 patients showed that at 18 months, Radiesse maintained 65 percent of its volume, while at 24 months, Sculptra still exhibited continued stimulation of collagen.
Hyaluronidase is the enzyme that degrades HA fillers and has a success rate of 95 percent in the reversal of overcorrections, asymmetry, or migration, thus representing the preferred option for first-time patients or those who are concerned about possible complications. On the other hand, Radiesse and Sculptra cannot be immediately reversed and must naturally degrade over time, a process that can take up to two years. In total, 200 patients with various complications of fillers were included; the results from this retrospective study demonstrated that HA filler-related complications were resolved in 78% within one to two weeks with hyaluronidase injections, while complications involving Radiesse and Sculptra took an average of 9 to 12 months to resolve on their own.
The cost of a 1-milliliter syringe of HA filler could be in the range of an average of 600 to 1,200 USD, depending on the brand and clinic. Since HA fillers require a touch-up every 9 to 18 months, it is estimated that the three-year maintenance cost is between 2,400 and 4,500 USD. Radiesse and Sculptra costs are high on the outset, at 800 to 1,500 USD per session, but with results that last longer, fewer treatments may be required over time. The Aesthetic Surgery Journal cost analysis had concluded that patients using Radiesse or Sculptra saved about 25 to 30 percent over three years compared with patients using HA fillers, in spite of the higher initial investment.
Physicians generally advise HA fillers for first-time patients or those requiring minor correction; non-HA fillers are more suitable for those seeking structural support and collagen regeneration. A 2023 industry survey among 500 board-certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons found that 82% of them would recommend HA fillers for the under-eye area due to their safety, reversibility, and hydration benefits, while only 18% preferred Radiesse or Sculptra, citing increased risks of complications and the need for more precise placement.
Metabolism and Filler Breakdown
Clinical studies have demonstrated that individuals with higher BMRs degrade hyaluronic acid-based fillers at a rate 25 to 40 percent faster than individuals with lower metabolic rates. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery, for example, sampled 500 patients and reported that individuals with over 1,800 kcal/day BMR showed an average loss of 40% of the filler volume within the first six months, whereas individuals with under 1,400 kcal/day BMR retained over 70% at the same mark. This indicates that those with high metabolisms will need touch-ups every 6 to 9 months, whereas those with lower metabolisms might be able to get up to 18 months out of it.
Individuals who work out more than four times a week at an extreme level experience increased circulation, lymphatic drainage, and higher enzymatic activity, which result in the breakdown of fillers at a rate of 30 to 50 percent faster. A comparative study from a cosmetic clinic in Los Angeles followed two groups of patients for 12 months. First, those that exercised less than twice a week and retained 65-80 percent of filler volume after the 12-month period. The second group, who did cardio and strength training at least four times a week, demonstrated filler degradation rates of 50 to 70 percent by month six and needed touch-ups significantly earlier.
There are many types of under-eye fillers available in the market, all with their strengths. remains the most popular because it looks and feels natural, plus it’s easy to adjust. If you want longer-lasting results, poly-L-lactic acid might be a good option.
Younger individuals, especially those in the age group of 20 to 35 years, metabolize fillers 20 to 35 percent quicker compared to those above 45 years of age. A 2021 study analyzed 1,000 patients aged between 25 and 60 years. Patients in the 25-30-year-old group had to be re-injected in 8 to 10 months, while the effect for the patients over 50 years old lasted from 14 to 18 months.
In fact, according to a 2023 report by the American Academy of Dermatology, a noted 15-20 percent increase in filler longevity was observed among patients who drank at least 2.5 liters of water daily. Conversely, it showed that in patients with a high-sodium diet or with high caffeine intake, the longevity of fillers was reduced by 10 to 18 percent, probably due to increased dehydration and fluctuations in fluid retention. Besides that, frequent exposure to the sun without UV protection causes acceleration in the breakdown of hyaluronic acid by up to 22 percent, since ultraviolet radiation degrades the molecular bonds within the filler material. A survey of 700 patients using regularly sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher averaged a filler duration of 14 months, which was compared with 9 months in those patients not regularly applying sun protection.
One genetic study of 250 patients with high and low hyaluronidase activity reported that individuals with high levels of the enzyme breakdown the fillers up to 40 percent more quickly. For them, dermatologists often suggest other types of fillers like calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) and poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) since these types do not contain hyaluronic acid. They work by stimulating collagen to provide more lasting results.
Lifestyle Habits That Shorten Filler Lifespan
The effects of high-intensity exercises on fillers are a concern. A 2022 study published by the Journal of Clinical Dermatology estimated that people who did at least four high-intensity physical activities per week degraded fillers 35 to 50 percent faster than those leading sedentary lifestyles. In a patient survey across 20 dermatology clinics from the United States, it was reported that the athletes and frequent exercisers touch-ups were necessary every 6 to 9 months, whereas those with no or minimal physical activities retained the fillers for an average duration of 12 to 18 months.
UV radiation degrades hyaluronic acid and breaks down collagen, so failure to provide proper sun protection will decrease filler longevity by 20 to 30 percent in a patient. In a 2023 clinical report, the American Academy of Dermatology tracked 500 patients who received under-eye fillers and found that those patients who wore SPF 30 or higher consistently maintained the results three to five months longer than those who did not wear sunscreen. Individuals exposed to the sun for over 10 hours a week without protection tend to have a breakdown of the fillers 25 percent faster, while those who constantly wear sunscreen show slower decomposition. Tanning beds expedite this process even further. Studies have shown that UV from artificial tanning results in 40 percent more decomposition of the dermal fillers.
One study from 2021, published in the International Journal of Aesthetic Medicine, found that smokers degrade hyaluronic acid fillers 30 to 50 percent faster than nonsmokers, who have higher levels of hyaluronidase. In a clinical trial comparing moderate and heavy drinkers against nondrinkers, researchers found that the alcohol consumers needed to return in 7 to 10 months for their filler touch-ups, while those drinking very little to none could wait up to 12 to 18 months.
Indeed, a 2023 survey conducted by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery found that patients who consumed at least 2.5 liters of water daily reported an average filler life of 14 months, while for those with less intake, the figure stood at 9 months. A meta-analysis involving 1,000 subjects between five dermatology clinics measured the longevity to be reduced by about 20% in a very high-sodium diet patient. On the contrary, someone on an anti-inflammatory diet-think omega-3s, antioxidants, lean protein-would generally have results more stable over a longer duration of time.
One longitudinal study followed 250 patients over two years and reported that highly stressed individuals metabolized fillers 25 to 40 percent faster than their less-stressed counterparts. Poor sleep further promotes inflammation and desiccation, reducing the retention of fillers by 15 to 20 percent. Patients sleeping less than six hours nightly required touch-ups in 8 to 10 months, while those sleeping seven or more hours per night each night maintained the fillers for an average of 12 to 16 months.
Ways to Prolong Your Under-Eye Fillers
A 2023 study published in the Journal of Aesthetic Dermatology followed 500 patients who received hyaluronic acid-based under-eye fillers and reported that those who followed recommended post-treatment care retained their results 30 to 40 percent longer than those who did not. A multicenter clinical trial of dermatology centers determined that people who rub their eyes or sleep facedown showed filler breakdown at a rate 25 percent faster than those who do not put any undue pressure on the fillers.
A 2022 study published in the International Journal of Dermatologic Science found that patients who drank at least 2.5 liters of water daily retained 15 to 20 percent more filler volume at the 12-month mark, as compared to those consuming less than 1.5 liters per day. The same goes for hydrating serums, which include hyaluronic acid, boosting the filler life by 10 percent; topical hydration will always support skin elasticity and water retention.
A 2021 report by the American Academy of Dermatology stated that patients who applied SPF 30 or higher daily had a 25 to 35 percent longer-lasting filler compared to patients who did not use sun protection. Besides, UV-blocking sunglasses can reduce photodegradation of fillers by up to 20 percent, especially in patients who spend more than 10 hours per week outdoors. A comparative study tracked 250 patients over a period of 12 months and found that those who combined daily application of SPF with regular use of sunglasses retained their under-eye fillers 3-6 months longer than those who did not attend to sun protection.
Indeed, one such study followed 800 patients undergoing facial fillers and found, in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition and Aesthetic Medicine, that those on a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin C maintained their results 20 to 30 percent longer than those whose diets were filled with processed foods, sugar, and sodium. On the other hand, with intake of refined carbohydrates and trans fat in huge amounts, inflammation will cause collagen breakdown, reducing the filler longevity up to 15%. Nutritional supplements containing collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid capsules, and vitamin E demonstrated positive effects on skin hydration and an improvement in better integration of fillers, which, on average, prolongs the results by 2-4 months.
As reported by a 2023 survey of 1,000 cosmetic dermatology patients, those who scheduled minor touch-ups every 6 to 9 months maintained filler results 40 percent longer than those who waited for their fillers to fully dissipate before reinjection. A study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons learned that patients who combined under-eye fillers with complementary treatments, such as PRP or microneedling, on average extended the results by 4 to 6 months, compared to those who followed a one-size-fits-all approach.
are almost like adding a long-life battery to your eye area for vibrancy. Gone are those daily complaints to the mirror, “I slept so late again,” as the fillers work magic on dark circles and fine lines, brightening up naturally. Hyaluronic acid is also the most common choice for its good bonding with skin and safety; hence, many first-timers go for it.
