Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. These minimally invasive treatments can significantly rejuvenate one’s appearance. However, for various reasons, some individuals may seek to reverse these effects through a process known as filler dissolution, which involves breaking down the injected material. A common concern for those considering this procedure is the potential for pain during the dissolution process, a sensation often associated with injectable treatments.
Why Filler Dissolution Might Be Needed
Individuals seek filler dissolution for various reasons. Many choose dissolution due to unwanted aesthetic outcomes, such as overfilling that results in an unnatural look, noticeable asymmetry, or the development of lumps and nodules. Complications, though less common, also necessitate dissolution. These can include filler migration, where the product moves from its intended site, vascular occlusion, which affects blood flow, and allergic reactions. Beyond complications, some simply wish to reverse the treatment, perhaps desiring a different aesthetic or to return to their pre-filler appearance.
How Filler Dissolution Works
The process of dissolving hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers relies on an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This enzyme naturally occurs in the body and functions by cleaving the molecular bonds of hyaluronic acid, breaking down the filler into smaller fragments. Once broken down, these fragments are then naturally absorbed and eliminated by the body.
The procedure involves injecting the hyaluronidase solution directly into the area containing the unwanted filler using a fine needle. The specific amount of enzyme used is determined by factors such as the filler’s characteristics, its volume, and its distribution within the tissue. Hyaluronidase begins to work almost immediately, with noticeable effects often appearing within minutes, and significant changes visible within 24 to 48 hours.
Pain During the Dissolving Procedure
The sensation experienced during filler dissolution is a primary concern for many. The injection of hyaluronidase typically causes discomfort, which patients often describe as a brief stinging or burning sensation. This feeling is generally comparable to, or sometimes even less intense than, the initial dermal filler injection itself. The level of sensation can vary depending on the specific injection site, as some areas of the face are naturally more sensitive than others.
To manage this discomfort, practitioners often employ numbing strategies. A topical anesthetic cream can be applied to the skin before the injections to desensitize the area. Additionally, hyaluronidase can be mixed with lidocaine, a local anesthetic, which provides immediate pain relief as the solution is injected. While some individuals report minimal to no pain, others may find the process uncomfortable. The actual injection procedure is typically quick, often completed within 10 to 15 minutes.
What to Expect After Filler Dissolution
Following filler dissolution, individuals can expect immediate and short-term changes in the treated area. Common post-procedure experiences include swelling, bruising, tenderness, and redness. Swelling typically peaks around 48 hours after the treatment and gradually subsides within a few days to a week. Bruising is also common, usually resolving within several days to two weeks. Patients might also experience a feeling of “deflation” or emptiness in the area where the filler was.
Aftercare instructions are important for optimal recovery, including avoiding strenuous physical activities for 24 to 48 hours post-procedure. Applying cool compresses to the treated area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. It is also important to avoid applying pressure or massaging the treated area unless specifically instructed by the practitioner. While some initial changes are visible quickly, the full results of the dissolution are typically apparent within two weeks. In some cases, particularly with larger volumes of filler, multiple dissolution sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome.