How Often Should I Get Treated?

As injectors, we get asked by our patients all of the time how often they should be getting treated or how long certain treatments will last. Maintenance is key, so knowing when to come back and keep up with treatments is important.

Let’s start with neurotoxin. Most patients get treated every 3-5 months depending on how quickly the neurotoxin metabolizes out. Once they start to get muscle movement back and can start to see wrinkles, they know it’s time. Some patients may experience muscle movement earlier than 12 weeks, which tells me they need a higher dose. Dose is duration, so it is important to play with a patient’s dose until we find the perfect one. We want patients to get as close to the 12 week mark with minimal muscle movement as possible.

Now, dermal filler. Depending on the area that was treated with filler and what product was used, will determine how long it will last. It also depends on the patient’s lifestyle and their metabolism. Most of the dermal fillers used in the lips, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and oral commissures will last on average 6-9 months. A heavier filler that is used deep in the tissue for cheeks, jawline, chin, and temples, on average lasts 12-18 months. These are averages, as some patients get their lips done every 3-4 months, whereas others may only require lip injections once a year.

Lastly, let’s talk about PDO threads. There are lifting threads and smooth threads. Most patients who get lifting threads require maintenance treatment yearly. Smooth threads are a little different. Whatever area is being treated with smooth threads, requires at least 3 treatments 4-6 weeks apart. Once the injector and patient are happy with the results, maintenance of the 3 treatments is required yearly.

Keep in mind, every patient is different and it is truly up to the injector after they have assessed the patient to determine if and when they are ready for neurotoxin, dermal filler, and/or PDO threads.