Dermal filler dissolution refers to the process of breaking down or reversing the effects of dermal fillers that have been injected into the skin. The most common reason for filler dissolution is the use of hyaluronidase, an enzyme that can break down hyaluronic acid (HA)-based fillers. This procedure is used if the results of the filler are unsatisfactory, if there are complications, or if the patient simply wants to remove or adjust the treatment.
How Dermal Filler Dissolution Works
Hyaluronidase Injection:
What It Is: Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that naturally occurs in the body and helps to break down hyaluronic acid. It's commonly used in medical aesthetics to dissolve HA-based dermal fillers.
How It Works: When hyaluronidase is injected into the area where the filler has been placed, it breaks down the hyaluronic acid molecules, causing the filler to dissolve and be absorbed by the body over time.
Procedure: The enzyme is injected directly into the treated area. The amount and location of the injections depend on the amount and type of filler used.
Results
Immediate to Gradual Effects: You may see some immediate results, with the area starting to return to its natural state within a few hours to days. However, it might take several days for the full effects of the hyaluronidase to take place.
Complete Dissolution: Depending on how much filler was injected and the areas treated, it may take one or more sessions for complete filler breakdown.
Reasons for Dissolution
Overfilled Areas: If too much filler was injected, or if the results are not as desired (e.g., too much volume or an uneven result).
Complications: In the case of lumps, bumps, or nodules caused by the filler.
Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people might have an adverse reaction to the filler material, and hyaluronidase can help reverse this.
Aesthetic Adjustments: If someone simply wants to adjust the results or reduce the volume of filler over time.
Important Considerations
Safety: The use of hyaluronidase is generally safe and effective, but it should be administered by a trained medical professional to ensure accurate and safe treatment.
Side Effects: Some side effects might include swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site. Rarely, there could be an allergic reaction to hyaluronidase itself.
Limitations: While hyaluronidase can break down HA-based fillers, it does not affect other types of dermal fillers, such as those made from calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) or poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra).