How To Dissolve Fillers in the Lips & Face

Are you on the fence about getting fillers because you’re not sure if you would love your results? Is the fear of overly plumped fillers or a lopsided look preventing you from enhancing your features? Don’t worry, the process can always be reversed if needed!

While most fillers are temporary (most last somewhere between 6 months and 2 years depending on the filler) and most clients are very happy with their results, reversing fillers is as simple as receiving them.  A simple injection is placed at the area of concern just like a regular filler injection, which then takes about 24-48 hours to dissolve the filler.  In this injection is a compound called hyaluronidase, which our body also naturally produces. Celebrities such as Courtney Cox and Kylie Jenner have even admitted to having their facial fillers dissolved with hyaluronidase.

Why Might You Need to Dissolve Fillers?

While dermal fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, and Voluma are popular for enhancing facial features and restoring youthful volume, sometimes the results don’t meet expectations. Here are the most common reasons for dissolving fillers:

  1. Preference change: Over time, some individuals may want to change the effects of their fillers. 
  2. Filler migration: This occurs when fillers move from their intended placement, leading to uneven results.
  3. Lumps or irregularities: Improper injection techniques or product distribution can result in lumps or bumps.
  4. Medical concerns: Rarely, issues like vascular occlusion (blockage of blood vessels) require immediate filler reversal.

What Is Hyaluronidase and How Does It Work?

Hyaluronidase is a natural enzyme used to break down hyaluronic acid, the primary ingredient in many dermal fillers. When injected into the treated area, hyaluronidase dissolves the filler by splitting the hyaluronic acid molecules, which the body then absorbs naturally.

Key Facts About Hyaluronidase:

  • Fast-acting: The filler begins to dissolve almost immediately, with full effects visible in 24-48 hours.
  • Safe: When administered by a trained professional, hyaluronidase is highly effective and has minimal side effects.
  • Temporary swelling: Mild swelling or redness at the injection site is normal and resolves quickly.

 

The Process of Dissolving Fillers

Dissolving fillers is a straightforward procedure:

  1. Consultation: A medical provider will assess the area, discuss your goals, and confirm that dissolving is the right choice.
  2. Test injection: A small amount of hyaluronidase may be injected in a test area to rule out allergic reactions.
  3. Injection: The enzyme is carefully injected into the targeted area.
  4. Aftercare: Post-treatment care, such as avoiding extreme temperatures and strenuous activity, helps ensure optimal results.

FAQs About Dissolving Fillers

Are the results immediate?

Most individuals will see immediate results with this treatment. Once the filler and hyaluronidase meet, the process begins and the filler will start to dissolve, with full results after 48 hours. Don’t be discouraged if you still look plump, you may experience swelling. Just like any other injection, swelling is always a possibility but should disappear within the next couple of days.

Is reversing fillers a common treatment?

Reversing fillers is not as common as injecting but is definitely a safe treatment when injected by a licensed professional. It is also common for your injector to inject on a small test site to ensure that you are not allergic to the hyaluronidase before performing the treatment. Numbing is applied and the treatment is just as simple as a filler appointment.

How do I know if fillers are right for me?

Facial fillers are a great way to enhance natural features and balance areas of concern. It is always beneficial to consult with a medical provider to determine the best treatment plan that is personalized for you!

More questions about facial fillers?  Schedule your complimentary consultation below or give us a call at 619.293.7233