Dermal fillers are popular cosmetic treatments designed to enhance facial features and diminish signs of aging. These injectable substances add volume, smooth lines, and restore a more youthful appearance. Many individuals choose fillers to plump lips, reduce wrinkles around the nose and mouth, or restore volume to cheeks that have lost fullness over time.
Types of Dissolvable Fillers
The ability to dissolve dermal fillers depends on their composition. Hyaluronic acid (HA) based fillers are the only type that can be effectively dissolved. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in the body, helping to keep skin hydrated and plump. Common HA filler brands include Juvéderm, Restylane, and Belotero. These products are widely used due to their natural-looking results and the option for reversal.
In contrast, non-HA fillers cannot be dissolved using the same method. These include fillers made from calcium hydroxylapatite (e.g., Radiesse), poly-L-lactic acid (e.g., Sculptra), and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). While some of these non-HA fillers may degrade naturally over time, they do not respond to the dissolving agent used for HA fillers. Different approaches are necessary for correction or removal of non-HA fillers.
Reasons for Dissolving Fillers
Individuals may choose to dissolve their dermal fillers for a variety of reasons, ranging from aesthetic dissatisfaction to medical concerns. A common reason is an unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome, such as overfilling, unevenness, or an undesirable shape that results in an unnatural appearance. Filler migration, where the product moves from its intended injection site, can also lead to an undesired look and prompt dissolution.
Beyond aesthetic concerns, medical complications sometimes necessitate dissolving fillers. These complications can include persistent swelling, the formation of lumps or nodules, or allergic reactions. A more serious, though rare, complication is vascular occlusion, which occurs when filler inadvertently blocks a blood vessel, potentially impairing circulation and causing tissue damage. In such cases, rapid dissolution is important to prevent lasting harm. Some individuals also opt for dissolution if they simply change their mind or wish to revert to their appearance prior to treatment.
The Dissolving Procedure
The process of dissolving hyaluronic acid fillers involves injecting an enzyme called Hyaluronidase directly into the treated area. This enzyme naturally occurs in the body and functions by breaking down hyaluronic acid molecules into smaller fragments. Once broken down, these fragments are then naturally absorbed and eliminated by the body. The procedure typically begins with a consultation to assess the amount and location of the filler to be dissolved.
During the injection, a healthcare provider may apply a numbing cream to minimize discomfort. A fine needle is used to administer the Hyaluronidase solution into the areas where the unwanted filler is present. The entire injection process is usually quick, often taking less than 15 minutes. After the injection, a gentle massage may be performed to help distribute the enzyme and encourage the breakdown of the filler. Depending on the volume and type of filler, multiple sessions might be necessary to achieve complete dissolution.
What to Expect After Dissolving
After a Hyaluronidase injection, patients can expect some immediate, temporary effects at the treated site. Common side effects include mild swelling, redness, and bruising, which typically subside within a few days. Swelling might initially make the area appear fuller than desired, but this is a temporary effect of the injection itself and the fluid from the dissolving agent. Applying a cool compress can help reduce swelling.
The results of the dissolution are often noticeable quickly, with many individuals seeing a reduction in filler volume within 24 to 48 hours. Complete resolution can take several days to up to two weeks, as the body continues to absorb the broken-down filler. It is important to avoid strenuous exercise, excessive pressure on the treated area, and certain medications like aspirin or ibuprofen for a period after the procedure, as advised by the practitioner. While Hyaluronidase primarily targets the injected filler, it can temporarily affect some of the body’s natural hyaluronic acid; however, the body continuously produces its own HA, so this effect is usually short-lived and does not lead to long-term issues. Consulting a qualified medical professional for both filler application and dissolution is important to ensure safety and achieve desired outcomes.