Ellansé is an injectable dermal filler that can help reduce the appearance of deep facial lines and folds while restoring volume to lax and sagging skin. In experienced hands, it can create sharper jawline definition, more sculpted cheeks and temples, and softened facial folds. It’s not recommended for the lips or under-eye area.
While Ellansé is not yet FDA-approved or available in the United States, the filler is widely used in Asia and Europe. One 2017 study funded by the manufacturer concluded that Ellansé is safe, with long-lasting effects.
Unlike hyaluronic acid-based fillers (which can be dissolved by hyaluronidase), Ellansé is made of polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres, mixed with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) gel. The gel delivers immediate results, while the microspheres stimulate your skin to produce more collagen, which becomes apparent after three months.
Both Ellansé and Radiesse contain CMC gel, to stimulate collagen production. However, Radiesse is made with calcium hydroxylapatite and isn’t as long-lasting.
Juvéderm differs from Ellansé in that it’s made with hyaluronic acid. Juvéderm lasts only up to two years, but it can be used in the lips and under the eyes.
What are the pros of Ellansé?
Unlike some other dermal filler options, Ellansé can last as long as four years, depending on the type used.
Compared to other options, such as Sculptra, you don’t need multiple monthly treatments.
PCL has shown to be safe and well-tolerated.
RealSelf members’ before and after photos show a softening of wrinkles and added facial volume.
What are the cons of Ellansé?
Since Ellansé isn’t FDA-approved yet, it’s not available from reputable providers in the U.S.
Because it’s a longer-lasting filler, you may have delayed side effects for as long as it stays in your body.
It can’t be dissolved if you don’t like the result or have a complication.
RealSelf reviews who said it’s not worth it reported lumps and other visible side effects.
What happens during an Ellansé treatment?
During your consultation, your doctor will determine if Ellansé is the best filler for you and recommend one of four types. Each can be used anywhere on the face (except under the eyes or lips area) but varies in reabsorption rate (i.e., how long the filler lasts).
S lasts up to 12 months.
M lasts to 20 months.
L lasts to 30 months.
E lasts up to 48 months.
Before injection, your doctor will give you a local anaesthetic to minimize discomfort. Once you’re numb, they’ll use a syringe to inject the filler into the cheeks, temples, chin, or another area. You can expect the process to take at least 30 minutes.
Ellansé filler side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Severe side effects are extremely rare but are possible, if your body reacts to the ingredients or if the injections are done by an unqualified provider.
You can return to normal activities when the treatment is over.
When you’ll see results and how long they’ll last
After treatment, you can see the results immediately. Long-term, the injections will continue to stimulate collagen production.
Ellansé lasts from one to four years, depending on the type your doctor recommends.
Unlike other dermal filler types, such as hyaluronic acid, Ellansé fillers cannot be dissolved.
