Dermal fillers have been growing in popularity in recent years because they effectively soften wrinkles and replace volume lost from aging in a safe and reliable manner. The most popular fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the skin.  Once a treatment is administered, the filler is gradually broken down by enzymes in the body, over a period of months.  How many months?  This can vary depending on the specific filler used.  The most widespread hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers include Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm.  Each has its own special qualities.  

Dr. Kotlus recently presented his research on filler longevity at national medical meetings.  He used the the Vectra 3-D imaging system (also used for cosmetic surgery simulations) and he monitored the volume of filler (Perlane) in the months after administration.   Perlane was still creating a volume effect 10 months after the initial treatment.  But during this time, the filler was being broken down in a linear fashion:

So Perlane, which can restore youthfulness by creating fullness, can last for 10 months.  Repeat treatment before the filler is gone, possibly at 6-8 months after the initial treatment, can help to sustain the effects for much longer.  

English researchers have found a way to modify the BOTOX molecule with to be used for other medical purposes. A new report describes that rebuilding the components of the most popular injectable wrinkle treatment in the world may allow it to be used for Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, and chronic migraines. 

The new formulation could produce pain relief for as long as BOTOX lasts- usually 4 to 6 months. The current form of the product is already used by many doctors for spasms and other conditions not related to the well-known cosmetic applications.  

The widespread use of BOTOX stemmed from its original human use to treat eye muscle disorders.  A Canadian doctor observed that it was also improving wrinkles in these patients. Since then, Allergan's BOTOX became a blockbuster success in treating frown lines.