Dermal fillers have become a cornerstone of non-surgical aesthetic treatments, helping restore volume, soften lines, and enhance facial symmetry. In this post, Dr. Lisa Ishii, board-certified dermatologist at Aesthetic Solutions in Chapel Hill, explains why more people are interested in dissolving filler and what you should know if you’re considering the same.
Safety Note: This article does not cover emergencies such as vascular occlusion, which require immediate medical attention.
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable gels commonly used to restore facial volume, smooth creases, and improve symmetry. While most often used in the face, they can also be placed in the hands, chest, and other areas.
Why Are More People Dissolving Filler?
Dermal fillers for cosmetic use have been around since 1981, when the first collagen filler hit the market. Hyaluronic acid gel-based fillers (HA fillers) became more popular in the early 90s as a “shorter duration” product that could be dissolved. As the aesthetic world has grown and gained experience over the years, we have discovered how HA filler behaves over the long term, and that HA filler may stick around for longer than we initially thought.
HA filler that was inappropriately placed years ago may become visible over the face as the face naturally evolves with time. According to Dr. Ishii, it’s best to avoid a “due date” for HA filler and instead monitor the face over time for retreatment.
Another reason filler dissolving is on the rise is changing trends. A more “done” look that may have been popular several years ago is no longer desired. Now, people are coming in to have this previously trendy look reversed. This is exactly why it’s best to steer clear of trends. The best results should be timeless, natural, and tailored to you.
How to Know If You Should Dissolve Your Filler
In rare cases, filler may need to be dissolved due to medical concerns, such as a delayed allergic reaction or infection. In those situations, dissolving is part of the gold standard for medical management.
More often, the conversation around dissolving is aesthetic. If you’re no longer happy with your filler results – or you’re unsure whether it’s time to make a change – the best next step is a consultation with your injector. Together, you can determine your goals and decide whether dissolving filler makes sense. Sometimes, the best outcome isn’t just removing filler – it may involve pivoting to an entirely different treatment approach.
Safety Note: This article does not cover emergencies such as vascular occlusion, which require immediate medical attention.
How Does Dissolving Filler Work? Can All Fillers Be Dissolved?
Only HA-based fillers can be dissolved using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid. It’s injected directly into the treated area to target the unwanted filler. Results can be seen fairly quickly, though some swelling and bruising are common afterward.
If you plan to re-treat the area with new HA filler – or require additional dissolving – it’s generally best to wait at least two full weeks before proceeding.
It’s important to know that not all fillers can be dissolved. Biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra or Radiesse don’t have direct reversal agents. While certain protocols can help break down those fillers when needed, the process is more complex and less predictable than with HA products.
Safety Note: If you have a history of anaphylactic reactions to bee or wasp stings, hyaluronidase may not be a safe option.
Choosing the Right Provider for Dissolving Filler
If you’re experiencing unexpected side effects or are simply unhappy with your results, your first step should always be to contact the provider who performed your filler treatment. They know the exact products used and can often guide you through your options.
However, if you need a second opinion or your original provider is unsure how to proceed, we’re here to help. At Aesthetic Solutions, we regularly work with patients seeking solutions for aesthetic correction.
If you are looking for filler dissolving in Chapel Hill, Raleigh or Durham – contact our office for more information.
