When it comes to restoring volume and reducing wrinkles, dermal fillers are one of the most sought-after aesthetic treatments worldwide. But with so many options available from Juvederm and Restylane to Sculptra and Radiesse it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices.
Among these, Ellansé has gained attention as a next-generation filler that not only adds instant volume but also stimulates your skin’s natural collagen production for long-lasting rejuvenation.
You may be wondering: Is Ellansé actually better than other fillers? Or, how is it different from the traditional hyaluronic acid-based options?
Let’s dive into how Ellansé works, what makes it stand out, and how it compares to popular alternatives in terms of results, safety, and longevity.
What Is Ellansé?
Ellansé is more than just a dermal filler it’s a next-generation collagen stimulator developed by Sinclair Pharma to give you both immediate results and long-term skin improvement. Unlike traditional fillers that rely solely on hyaluronic acid (HA) to add volume, Ellansé uses polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres suspended in a smooth gel carrier. This combination works in two ways: the gel provides instant plumping and contouring, while the PCL particles gradually stimulate your skin to produce its own collagen over time.
What does this mean for you? Not only does Ellansé restore the volume you’ve lost with age, but it also helps improve your skin’s overall quality. You may notice firmer, smoother, and more elastic skin that looks naturally youthful rather than artificially “filled.” Because the results are progressive, your skin continues to rejuvenate over several months, giving a subtle lift that lasts for years.
At LMA Clinic, specialists carefully assess your facial structure and goals to ensure Ellansé enhances your natural beauty. The focus isn’t just on filling lines or wrinkles it’s about creating a balanced, refreshed appearance that complements your features. Many patients appreciate how natural the results feel; the skin moves and behaves like your own, making the rejuvenation virtually undetectable to others while still noticeable to you.
Whether you’re looking to restore lost volume, lift sagging areas, or improve skin texture, Ellansé offers a unique solution that combines immediate satisfaction with long-term benefits, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural, enduring enhancement.
How Ellansé Works vs Other Fillers
To understand how Ellansé differs from others, it helps to know how traditional fillers function.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
Brands like Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero use hyaluronic acid, a substance that naturally exists in your skin to retain moisture. These fillers add instant volume and hydration but don’t stimulate collagen production.
Over time, the HA is naturally broken down by the body and absorbed, meaning results typically last between 6–12 months.
Ellansé (PCL) Fillers
Ellansé combines immediate correction with biostimulation. Once injected, it provides instant volume through the gel carrier. Then, as your body absorbs the gel, the PCL microspheres remain, stimulating fibroblasts to produce new collagen.
This process continues for months, giving you smoother, firmer, and more youthful skin even after the filler itself has been absorbed.
In short: while HA fillers “fill,” Ellansé “rebuilds.”
Key Differences Between Ellansé and Other Fillers
When you’re choosing a dermal filler, it helps to understand how Ellansé compares to other popular options like Juvederm, Restylane, Sculptra, and Radiesse.
Ingredients & Mechanism
Ellansé is made from polycaprolactone (PCL), which not only gives you instant volume but also stimulates your collagen over time. If you’re looking at Juvederm or Restylane, they’re made from hyaluronic acid (HA), so they mainly add volume by hydrating your skin. Sculptra uses poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to gradually boost collagen, while Radiesse contains calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), giving both immediate lift and collagen stimulation.
Longevity & Results
You’ll notice Ellansé results immediately, with improvements continuing for 1 to 4 years depending on the version you choose. Juvederm or Restylane usually last 6–12 months, while Sculptra works gradually over a couple of years. Radiesse offers instant results that last around 12–18 months.
Collagen & Reversibility
Ellansé is strong at stimulating collagen, which helps with long-term rejuvenation. Juvederm and Restylane have minimal collagen effect but are reversible using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. If you want a long-term solution without reversibility, Ellansé, Sculptra, and Radiesse are your options.
Texture & Best Uses
Ellansé feels smooth and elastic, making it great for lifting and overall rejuvenation. Juvederm or Restylane are soft and gel-like, perfect for lip volume or fine lines. Sculptra gradually firms hollow areas, while Radiesse is denser, ideal for jawline contouring or cheek lifts.
The Science Behind Ellansé
Ellansé’s formula contains PCL microspheres, which are biocompatible and biodegradable meaning they safely dissolve over time while encouraging your skin to produce new collagen.
Once injected:
1. The gel gives immediate volume and smoothing.
2. The PCL microspheres trigger a controlled inflammatory response, activating fibroblasts.
3. Your skin starts generating fresh Type I collagen, the same kind responsible for youthful firmness.
This makes Ellansé more than just a filler it’s a collagen booster that helps your skin rebuild itself from within.
Longevity: How Long Does Ellansé Last?
One of the biggest reasons people choose Ellansé is its long lifespan.
Depending on the formula, Ellansé can last between one and four years:
Ellansé S: up to 1 year
Ellansé M: up to 2 years
Ellansé L: up to 3 years
Ellansé E: up to 4 years
In comparison, most hyaluronic acid fillers last 6–12 months, and collagen-stimulating alternatives like Sculptra usually last around 2 years.
The longer duration means fewer maintenance appointments and a more consistent, natural improvement over time.
Texture and Natural Look
One of the standout benefits of Ellansé is how natural and smooth it looks under the skin.
While some fillers can occasionally cause puffiness or an overly “filled” appearance, Ellansé integrates seamlessly with your skin tissue, encouraging gradual improvement rather than an instant, dramatic change.
The result? A rejuvenated version of you not an artificial or over-corrected look.
Patients often describe the results as subtle and graceful, improving skin tone, elasticity, and firmness without anyone noticing you’ve had “work done.”
Areas Where Ellansé Works Best
Ellansé can be used in many of the same areas as other fillers but tends to perform best where collagen loss is most visible.
Common treatment areas include:
– Cheeks (volume restoration)
– Temples (hollow correction)
– Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
– Marionette lines (lines near mouth corners)
– Jawline definition
– Chin contouring
– Hands (rejuvenation and smoothing)
However, Ellansé is not typically used for lips or under-eye areas, as these regions require more flexible, reversible fillers like hyaluronic acid.
Collagen Stimulation: The Key Advantage
Most traditional fillers focus on instant volume. Once injected, they lift, plump, and fill wrinkles but that’s where the benefit stops. When the filler dissolves, the result disappears.
Ellansé changes this completely.
Its collagen-stimulating action ensures that even after the filler itself is absorbed, your skin continues to look fresher and firmer.
You’re not just filling wrinkles; you’re restoring your skin’s natural support system.
This is especially beneficial for patients in their 30s and 40s who want to slow down visible ageing instead of masking it temporarily.
Comparing Longevity and Value
While Ellansé may cost more upfront than typical HA fillers, its longer lifespan means fewer touch-ups and potentially lower costs in the long run.
For example:
Juvederm or Restylane may require 2–3 sessions per year.
Ellansé usually needs one session every 1–4 years, depending on the type used.
So, although the initial investment is higher, Ellansé offers exceptional value for those seeking lasting, natural rejuvenation.
Safety and Side Effects
Like all aesthetic treatments, Ellansé should be performed by a trained, experienced injector.
Side effects are generally mild and temporary, including:
– Redness
– Swelling
– Tenderness
– Minor bruising
These typically resolve within a few days.
Since Ellansé is biocompatible and fully biodegradable, your body gradually breaks it down safely over time.
However, it’s important to note that, unlike HA fillers, Ellansé cannot be dissolved instantly. This means that adjustments require professional expertise and careful planning another reason to choose a reputable clinic.
Who Is Ellansé Best Suited For?
Ellansé is ideal for:
1. People looking for long-term rejuvenation rather than short-term correction.
2. Patients wanting firmer, tighter skin with improved elasticity.
3. Individuals who prefer subtle, progressive improvement instead of instant fullness.
4. Men and women in their 30s–60s who have started noticing volume loss and fine lines.
If you’ve used HA fillers before and felt the effects faded too quickly, Ellansé may be the next step in your aesthetic journey.
How Ellansé Compares to Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
If you’re weighing your options between Ellansé and traditional hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or Restylane, it helps to understand the differences in how they work and what results you can expect. Both provide immediate volume and an instant lift, so you’ll notice a change right after treatment. The key difference lies in how your skin responds over time.
Ellansé not only gives you instant correction but also stimulates your collagen, which means your skin gradually becomes firmer, smoother, and more lifted over the months following treatment. With HA fillers, the effect mainly comes from plumping the skin with moisture, and while it looks great initially, the results typically fade within 6 to 12 months.
Another factor to consider is reversibility. HA fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed, giving you flexibility if you want to adjust your look. Ellansé, on the other hand, isn’t reversible, but the trade-off is that you get long-lasting results anywhere from one to four years depending on the product version.
When it comes to cost efficiency, Ellansé may seem more expensive upfront, but because the effects last longer and continue to improve as your collagen grows, many patients find it more cost-effective over time. Plus, the improvement in overall skin quality is noticeable, not just temporary volume.
In short, if you want a natural, progressive lift that enhances your skin’s structure and texture while lasting significantly longer, Ellansé often stands out as the more comprehensive option.
Comparing Ellansé with Sculptra
Both Ellansé and Sculptra are collagen stimulators, but they work a little differently. Ellansé uses PCL microspheres, giving you an immediate lift that continues to improve over time. Sculptra, made from poly-L-lactic acid, works gradually, so you’ll notice results only after a few weeks.
If you’re looking for convenience, Ellansé usually only requires a single session, while Sculptra often takes two to three treatments to achieve the same effect. When it comes to longevity, Ellansé can last up to four years, whereas Sculptra tends to last around two years.
Texture-wise, Ellansé feels smooth and elastic, making it ideal for lifting and contouring. Sculptra is firmer and a bit granular, so it’s better suited if your goal is overall facial fullness rather than targeted lift.
In short, if you want an immediate, long-lasting lift that keeps getting better over time, Ellansé could be the more convenient choice for you.
The Treatment Process
A typical Ellansé treatment takes about 30–45 minutes.
Your practitioner will discuss your goals and mark the treatment areas.
A topical anaesthetic is applied for comfort.
Ellansé is injected precisely into the target areas using a fine needle or cannula.
You’ll see an instant lift and volume boost, with further improvement appearing over the next few months as collagen production increases.
Most patients return to work or social activities the same day, with only minor swelling or redness.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your Ellansé treatment:
Avoid touching or massaging the treated area for 24 hours.
Refrain from intense exercise, saunas, and alcohol for 48 hours.
Use gentle skincare products for the first few days.
Sleep on your back to avoid pressure on your face.
Your results will continue to refine over the next 3–6 months as your natural collagen strengthens and lifts your skin from within.
Ellansé Results: What to Expect
You’ll see:
– Immediate improvement in facial volume and definition.
– Gradual tightening as new collagen develops.
– Smooth, radiant skin that looks youthful and refreshed.
Unlike traditional fillers, Ellansé doesn’t simply “sit” under your skin it works actively to enhance your skin’s own structure, giving results that look natural in all expressions.
Why Ellansé Feels More “Natural”
Patients often describe Ellansé as feeling like their own skin rather than a filler. Because it stimulates collagen, the treated area moves and behaves naturally without the slightly “gel-like” feeling sometimes associated with HA fillers.
The rejuvenation is subtle and progressive, meaning friends and family might notice you look fresher, but not necessarily guess why.
Is Ellansé Right for Everyone?
Ellansé isn’t suitable for everyone. You may need an alternative filler if you:
1. Want reversible results.
2. Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
3. Have active skin infections or autoimmune conditions.
4. Want lip augmentation or tear-trough correction.
A professional consultation ensures your treatment plan matches your aesthetic goals and skin type.
FAQs:
1. How long does an Ellansé treatment take?
A typical Ellansé session usually lasts between 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, your practitioner will discuss your aesthetic goals, mark the areas to be treated, and apply a topical anaesthetic for comfort. The filler is then carefully injected using a fine needle or cannula, allowing you to see an immediate lift and volume boost. You’ll notice further improvements over the next few months as collagen production gradually increases.
2. When will I see the results of Ellansé?
You’ll notice some immediate results right after your session because of the gel carrier that provides instant volume. The best part is that the effects continue to improve over time as your skin produces new collagen. Typically, the full results appear gradually over the following 3 to 6 months, giving you a natural, refined, and youthful look.
3. How long do Ellansé results last?
Ellansé is known for its longevity compared to traditional hyaluronic acid fillers. Depending on the version you choose, your results can last anywhere from 1 to 4 years. This means you can enjoy a long-term lift without frequent touch-ups, and the progressive collagen stimulation ensures your skin continues to improve even after the initial filler has been absorbed.
4. Is the treatment painful?
Most patients find Ellansé comfortable, thanks to the topical anaesthetic applied before injection. Some may feel mild pressure or a slight pinch during the procedure, but this is usually minimal. Any post-treatment discomfort is generally limited to minor swelling or redness, which tends to subside within a day or two.
5. Can Ellansé be reversed like hyaluronic acid fillers?
Unlike HA fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane, Ellansé is not reversible with an enzyme. Once injected, it works gradually by stimulating collagen. This means it’s important to discuss your desired outcomes carefully with your practitioner beforehand to ensure the treatment matches your goals.
6. What areas can be treated with Ellansé?
Ellansé is versatile and can be used in multiple areas of the face. It’s particularly effective for lifting and contouring the cheeks, jawline, and temples, as well as restoring volume in the mid-face. It can also smooth certain folds and enhance overall facial rejuvenation, giving you a natural-looking boost without changing your expressions.
7. What is the recovery like after Ellansé?
Recovery is generally quick. You’ll want to avoid touching or massaging the treated area for at least 24 hours and refrain from intense exercise, saunas, and alcohol for the first 48 hours. Gentle skincare is recommended in the days following the treatment, and sleeping on your back can help avoid unnecessary pressure. Most people can return to their daily activities immediately with little to no downtime.
8. How does Ellansé differ from other fillers like Sculptra or Juvederm?
Ellansé provides an immediate lift thanks to the gel carrier, and its polycaprolactone microspheres stimulate collagen over time. This contrasts with Sculptra, which produces results gradually over multiple sessions, and hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm, which mainly provide short-term volume and hydration without stimulating collagen. In short, Ellansé both restores and rebuilds, giving a more lasting and natural-looking outcome.
9. Will Ellansé feel natural under my skin?
Many patients report that Ellansé feels like their own skin rather than a filler. Because it stimulates collagen, the treated area moves naturally with your facial expressions, unlike some HA fillers that may feel slightly gel-like. The results are subtle and progressive, so people may notice that you look fresher without immediately guessing why.
10. Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
Side effects are typically mild and temporary. You may experience some redness, swelling, or slight bruising at the injection sites, which usually resolves within a few days. Serious complications are rare, especially when the treatment is performed by an experienced practitioner. Following the aftercare instructions carefully helps to minimise any risks and ensures the best possible results.
Final Thoughts: Why Ellansé Stands Out for Lasting, Natural Results
Ellansé offers more than just an instant volume boost it’s a collagen-stimulating treatment that works with your skin to restore structure, firmness, and elasticity over time. Unlike traditional fillers, the results evolve gradually, giving a natural, refreshed appearance that lasts for years rather than months. Whether your goal is smoothing wrinkles, lifting sagging areas, or restoring youthful volume to the cheeks, jawline, or hands, Ellansé provides subtle yet transformative rejuvenation.
At the London Medical & Aesthetic Clinic, our skilled practitioners customise every Ellansé treatment to your facial anatomy and long-term goals, ensuring balanced, harmonious results. If you’re considering Ellansé treatment, you can contact us at the London Medical & Aesthetic Clinic to discuss your personalised plan and discover the most effective approach to restoring natural volume, stimulating collagen, and achieving long-lasting, youthful results.
References:
1. Angelo-Khattar, M., 2022. Objective assessment of the long-term volumizing action of polycaprolactone-based dermal fillers. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(3), pp. 1021–1027. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9805706/
2. Qureshi, K.I., 2025. Rhinomodelation with polycaprolactone—A safer and effective approach. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 24(1), pp. 45–50. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11804163/
3. De Melo, F., Nicolau, P., Piovano, L., Lin, S., Baptista-Fernandes, T., King, M.I., Camporese, A., Hong, K., Khattar, M.M. & Christen, M.O., 2017. Recommendations for volume augmentation and rejuvenation of the face and hands with the new generation polycaprolactone-based collagen stimulator (Ellansé®). Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 10, pp.431–440. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29184426/
4. Khiabanloo, S.R., Nabie, R. & Aalipour, E., 2022. Effectiveness of jawline, jaw angle, and marionette lines correction in combination with double needles threads (APTOS) and a collagen-stimulating dermal filler (ELLANSE): An innovative technique. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(10), pp.4727–4734. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35506203/
5. Wu, L., 2025. iCare technique of dissolving Ellansé M nodules using collagenase mixture: A case series and experimental study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40296530/
