Filler Dissolving
Safely break down and remove unwanted or misplaced hyaluronic acid dermal filler.
Areas Treated
Lips, Tear Troughs, cheeks & jawline
Discomfort Level
minimal
Treatment Time
45 to 60 min
Filler Dissolving
Filler dissolving is a treatment used to safely break down and remove unwanted or misplaced hyaluronic acid dermal filler. It may be chosen for aesthetic reasons, where a patient wishes to reverse or adjust previous treatment, or for medical reasons, where filler needs to be dissolved due to complications.
The aim of filler dissolving is to restore balance and safety before considering any further treatment. A thorough consultation is always carried out to assess the area, discuss expectations and determine whether dissolving is appropriate.
Filler dissolving involves the injection of an enzyme called hyaluronidase into the area where hyaluronic acid filler has previously been placed. Hyaluronidase works by breaking down the filler so that it can be naturally absorbed by the body.
Treatment is carefully planned based on the type, amount and location of filler present. In some cases, more than one dissolving session may be required to achieve the desired outcome.
For lip filler dissolving, the option of dental local anaesthetic injections is available to ensure the area is completely numb and the procedure is as comfortable as possible.
A patch test must be performed prior to treatment.
Filler dissolving may be recommended for:
- Overfilled or uneven areas
- Migration of dermal filler
- Lumps or irregularities
- Poor aesthetic outcome from previous treatment
- Filler placed elsewhere that you would like removed
- Medical concerns or complications related to filler
Suitability for dissolving is assessed carefully during consultation.
Filler dissolving is most commonly performed on:
- Lips
- Tear troughs
- Cheeks
- Jawline
- Other areas where hyaluronic acid filler has previously been placed
Discomfort varies depending on the area being treated. For lip dissolving, dental local anaesthetic injections can be provided to ensure the area is fully numb and the procedure is comfortable.
Some temporary swelling, tenderness or mild bruising can occur following treatment.
The treatment appointment typically takes around 45-60 minutes, including consultation, consent and treatment.
Some reduction in filler volume may be noticed quite quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours, although full results may take up to 1 to 2 weeks as the body absorbs the broken-down filler.
In some cases, further treatment sessions may be required.
Once hyaluronic acid filler has been dissolved, the effect is permanent for that filler. However, the natural ageing process continues.
If desired, filler can be reintroduced in a more conservative and carefully planned way once the tissue has fully settled, usually after several weeks.
Filler dissolving is only effective for hyaluronic acid-based fillers. It will not dissolve other types of filler.
A thorough consultation is essential to assess suitability, discuss risks and ensure safe treatment. In cases where dissolving is required for medical reasons, treatment is carried out promptly and with patient safety as the primary priority.