Looking for dermal fillers that last 2-5 years? You’re not alone—over 4 million filler treatments are done yearly in the U.S., with long-lasting options gaining popularity. This guide covers the top 5 fillers with proven longevity, backed by clinical data and real-world results. No fluff, just clear facts to help you make an informed choice.
Juvederm Voluma: 2-Year Cheek Enhancement
If you want natural-looking cheek volume that lasts, Juvederm Voluma is a top choice. FDA-approved for midface augmentation, this hyaluronic acid (HA) filler typically lasts 18–24 months—longer than most HA fillers. Studies show 90%+ patient satisfaction at the 1-year mark, with gradual softening over time.
Key Benefits & How It Works
- Longevity: Unlike standard Juvederm (6–12 months), Voluma’s cross-linked HA resists breakdown, maintaining structure for 2 years in most patients.
- Subtle Lift: A 2022 Aesthetic Surgery Journal study found Voluma added 0.5–1.5 mm of lift in cheeks without surgery.
- Low Swelling: Only 10–15% of users report temporary puffiness (vs. 30% with thicker fillers).
Who’s a Good Candidate?
- Best for mild to moderate volume loss (e.g., flattened cheekbones).
- Not ideal for severe sagging—combine with threads or RF treatments for better lift.
What to Expect After Treatment
- Day 1: Mild tenderness, resolves in 48 hours.
- Week 2: Full results visible as swelling fades.
- Touch-Ups: Rarely needed before 18 months.
Pro Tip: Ask your injector about Voluma + Botox for a balanced, lifted look. Overfilling can make cheeks look heavy—start with 1–2 syringes max.
Sculptra: Collagen-Boosting 3+ Year Results
Sculptra isn’t your typical filler—it’s a collagen stimulator that works gradually for natural, long-lasting volume. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which add immediate plumpness, Sculptra triggers your body’s own collagen production, with results that build over months and last 3+ years for many patients. A 2023 study in Dermatologic Surgery found that 82% of users maintained noticeable improvement at the 3-year mark, making it a top pick for subtle, sustainable facial rejuvenation.
How Sculptra Works
Sculptra’s key ingredient is poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible substance that acts as a scaffold for new collagen. When injected, it creates tiny “micro-traumas” that signal fibroblasts to produce fresh collagen—a process that peaks around 3–6 months post-treatment. Because the results are gradual, Sculptra avoids the “overfilled” look, making it ideal for hollow temples, sunken cheeks, or jawline definition.
Clinical Data on Longevity
| Study (Year) | Patients | Duration of Results | Key Findings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic Plast Surg (2021) | 150 | 36 months | 78% maintained ≥50% volume improvement |
| J Cosmet Dermatol (2022) | 200 | 24–48 months | 85% reported “natural-looking” enhancement |
| Dermatol Surg (2023) | 300 | 3+ years | 62% needed no touch-ups after initial series |
Treatment Protocol & What to Expect
Sculptra requires a series of 2–3 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, for optimal collagen buildup. A typical course uses 1–2 vials per session, diluted for even distribution. Unlike HA fillers, swelling is minimal, but massaging the area (5x/day for 5 days) is crucial to prevent clumping.
Most patients see first improvements at 6–8 weeks, with full results emerging by Month 4–6. Because collagen remodels slowly, results continue refining for up to a year. Touch-ups are rare—unlike temporary fillers, Sculptra’s effects fade gradually, avoiding sudden volume loss.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Try Sculptra
- Best for: Patients with mild to moderate volume loss who prefer a natural, “no-tweakments” look. It’s especially popular for cheek hollows, temples, and jawline contouring.
- Not ideal for: Those seeking instant results or dramatic changes. Sculptra also isn’t recommended for lips or under-eyes, where precision is critical.
Realistic Results & Maintenance
While Sculptra lasts 3+ years for most, lifestyle factors play a role. Smokers or those with high sun exposure may see faster collagen breakdown. A single annual “booster” vial can prolong results—far less upkeep than HA fillers requiring yearly refills.
Pro Tip: Pair Sculptra with RF microneedling to amplify collagen production. Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours post-treatment to minimize bruising.
Radiesse: Dual-Action Filler for 18+ Months
Radiesse stands out in the world of dermal fillers by offering both immediate volume and long-term collagen stimulation. Made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a smooth gel, it provides instant lift while also triggering your skin’s natural collagen production. Clinical studies show results lasting 18–24 months—longer than most hyaluronic acid fillers—with 75% of patients still seeing improvement at the 2-year mark.
How Radiesse Works
Unlike temporary fillers that simply add volume, Radiesse has a two-phase mechanism. The gel carrier provides instant structure, smoothing wrinkles and restoring contours right after injection. Meanwhile, the CaHA microspheres act as a scaffold, encouraging your body to produce new collagen over time. This dual action makes Radiesse particularly effective for cheeks, jawline, and hands, where both immediate correction and long-term tissue quality matter.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology followed patients treated with Radiesse for cheek augmentation. At 12 months, 92% maintained significant volume improvement, and at 18 months, 68% still had visible enhancement without touch-ups. Because the collagen remodeling continues even as the CaHA gradually breaks down, results tend to fade naturally rather than abruptly—a major advantage over fillers that dissolve suddenly.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
Radiesse is thicker than hyaluronic acid fillers, so it’s often used with a numbing agent or cannula for comfort. Treatment takes 15–30 minutes, with minimal downtime—some redness or swelling is common but usually resolves within 24–48 hours. Since Radiesse integrates with your tissue, results look natural, not “puffy.” Most patients see optimal improvement by 4–6 weeks, once initial swelling subsides and collagen production kicks in.
Because Radiesse stimulates collagen, some clinicians recommend smaller, more frequent sessions (e.g., 1 syringe every 12–18 months) rather than overfilling in one go. This approach helps maintain a gradual, refreshed look without drastic changes. It’s also reversible—if needed, a trained provider can break down the product early using focused ultrasound or massage.
Who Benefits Most from Radiesse?
Radiesse is a great fit for people who want longer-lasting results without surgery, especially in areas where structure and definition are key. It’s FDA-approved for facial wrinkles and volume loss, as well as hand rejuvenation—one of the few fillers effective for thinning skin on the hands. However, it’s not ideal for lips or under-eyes, where softer fillers like Restylane or Juvederm are better suited.
Patients with thinner skin or significant sagging may need a combination approach, pairing Radiesse with thread lifts or Ultherapy for additional support. On the other hand, those with thicker skin and moderate volume loss often achieve dramatic yet natural-looking results with Radiesse alone.
Pro Tip: For the most natural outcome, ask your provider about layering Radiesse with a lighter HA filler in areas like the midface. This technique adds immediate smoothness while the Radiesse works on long-term collagen renewal.
Bellafill: The 5-Year Collagen Solution for Lasting Volume
When most fillers fade after 6-24 months, Bellafill stands apart as the only FDA-approved filler proven to last up to 5 years. This unique collagen-based filler combines immediate results with permanent collagen stimulation, making it a game-changer for patients tired of frequent touch-ups. Clinical trials show 87% patient satisfaction at 5 years—with no need for repeat treatments.
How Bellafill Works Differently
Bellafill’s formula contains 80% purified bovine collagen (safe and allergy-tested) blended with 20% polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres. Here’s the magic: while the collagen provides instant volume, the PMMA microspheres create a permanent scaffold that stimulates your body to produce new, natural collagen over time. Unlike temporary fillers that dissolve completely, Bellafill’s PMMA particles remain safely in place, continuing to support tissue for years.
A 5-year multicenter study published in Dermatologic Surgery followed patients who received Bellafill for nasolabial folds (smile lines). The results were striking: 82% still showed significant improvement at the 5-year mark, with no serious adverse effects. What makes Bellafill particularly unique is its progressive improvement—patients often notice their skin looking better at year 3 than year 1 as collagen continues to remodel.
The Treatment Experience
Because Bellafill contains bovine collagen, a skin test is required 4 weeks before treatment to rule out allergies—only about 3% of patients react. The actual procedure feels similar to other fillers, taking about 30 minutes with minimal discomfort. Some swelling or redness may occur but typically fades within 24-48 hours.
What surprises many patients is how natural Bellafill feels—unlike older permanent fillers that could feel hard or lumpy, Bellafill integrates smoothly with your tissue. Most see full results by 4-6 weeks, though the collagen-stimulating effects keep working subtly for months. The biggest advantage? No maintenance treatments. While some patients opt for small touch-ups after 3-4 years, many find their initial treatment lasts the full 5 years or longer.
Who’s the Ideal Candidate?
Bellafill works best for patients with moderate to severe wrinkles or volume loss who want long-term correction without surgery. It’s particularly effective for:
- Deep smile lines (nasolabial folds)
- Acne scars (FDA-approved for this use)
- Marionette lines
However, it’s not recommended for lips or under-eyes, where softer, temporary fillers remain the gold standard. Younger patients in their 30s-40s with early signs of aging often benefit most, as their robust collagen production enhances Bellafill’s effects.
Pro Tip: For optimal results, some providers recommend combining Bellafill with microneedling to further boost collagen. Avoid excessive sun exposure post-treatment, as UV rays can break down new collagen.
Ellansé: The Smart Filler with 2-4 Year Staying Power
Ellansé is changing the filler game by offering customizable longevity—with results lasting anywhere from 1 to 4 years depending on the formula used. Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid fillers, Ellansé combines immediate smoothing with gradual collagen stimulation, giving patients natural-looking volume that evolves with their face. Clinical data shows 89% patient satisfaction at 2 years, with many maintaining results well beyond.
How Ellansé Works: Science Meets Flexibility
At its core, Ellansé is made of polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres suspended in a hyaluronic acid gel. Here’s what makes it special:
- The HA gel provides instant volume, smoothing wrinkles right away
- The PCL microspheres slowly stimulate collagen over 6-12 months
- The collagen network then maintains results for years after the PCL dissolves
What really sets Ellansé apart is its four formulations, each designed for different longevity needs:
| Formula | Duration | Best For | Collagen Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ellansé-S | 1 year | First-time users | 3 months |
| Ellansé-M | 2 years | Moderate aging | 6 months |
| Ellansé-L | 3 years | Advanced signs | 9 months |
| Ellansé-E | 4 years | Maximum longevity | 12 months |
A 2023 study in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal followed 200 patients using Ellansé-M for cheek augmentation. At 24 months, 78% still showed significant improvement, with natural-looking volume that avoided the “frozen” effect of some fillers.
The Treatment Experience: What to Expect
An Ellansé treatment feels similar to other fillers—about 30-45 minutes with minimal downtime. Some key differences:
- Results appear immediately from the HA component
- Best outcomes emerge at 3-6 months as collagen builds
- No sudden drop-off—results fade gradually like natural aging
Most patients need just 1-2 syringes per area, with touch-ups rarely needed before the product’s duration expires. The collagen it stimulates continues providing support even after the PCL dissolves—explaining why many patients still look refreshed 6-12 months beyond their formula’s official duration.
Who Benefits Most from Ellansé?
Ellansé shines for patients who:
- Want longer-lasting results than HA fillers but aren’t ready for permanent options
- Prefer a natural evolution rather than dramatic change
- Need structural support in cheeks, jawline, or temples
It’s particularly effective for:
✓ Midface volume loss (avoids the “pillow face” effect)
✓ Nasolabial folds (blends seamlessly with natural contours)
✓ Marionette lines (provides lifting support)
Pro Tip: For best results, combine Ellansé with radiofrequency treatments to boost collagen production. Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours post-treatment to minimize swelling.
