Organic implants are only temporary solutions and require touch ups from time to time. The body's metabolism slowly reduces the bulk of these fillers or implants. Depending on the area of the body being injected, the rate of metabolism, and the type of implant, the frequency with which touch ups are required varies. Different studies report different findings. Most Zyderm collagen implants require touch ups within 3 to 6 months, and Zyplast collagen implants require them between 6 to 9 months. Occasionally, the implant will be metabolized within a few days or weeks. Our experience has been that consumption of alcohol or exposure to sun and heat increases the rate of metabolism and the subsequent reduction of the injected collagen, as well as an increase in the risk of an allergic reaction.

Studies suggest that on average Koken atelocollagen solution metabolizes within 8 to 14 months, although our experience has been that Koken is metabolized in 3 to 6 months.

Early studies suggest that the Fibrel gelatin matrix implant may last longer than Zyderm or Zyplast, however, we have found that it lasts no longer than Zyplast, 6 to 9 months. When injected into a pitted scar, approximately 80% of it is still present after one year. Its disappearance and migration is faster in wrinkles because of the additional muscle movement.

The new kid on the block, Hylaform viscoelastic gel, promises to last longer than the other implant materials, but this has yet to be confirmed through regular use and reporting.

The staying power of microlipid transfers (moving fat from one spot to another) is extremely variable depending largely on whether or not the fat "takes", that is, actually develops its own sustaining blood supply in the new site. Some reports suggest that they seem to metabolize much faster than other organic agents, and other reports indicate that they either entirely disappear or remain permanently.

Since the inorganic implants (silicone, Gore Tex and SoftForm) are not metabolized, no touch ups are required. If they are not properly injected or inserted or if they migrate out of place due to gravity or muscle pull, they will not be absorbed with time and will br permanently displaced. In these instances Gore Tex and SoftForm, can be removed, silicone cannot.