What Happens When You Get Fillers Dissolved: During Your Treatment
By Dr. Susana Fontana, Hazel Clinic
You may have heard about celebrities having their injectable treatments “reversed” and wondered what exactly that means. When it comes to fillers, which are commonly made of hyaluronic acid (HA), they can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase.
Hyaluronidase is a naturally occurring substance in the body that works by breaking up the bonds that hold the HA filler together, allowing the body to reabsorb it through a natural process. This capability is incredibly beneficial for a number of reasons.
1. Ensuring Natural Results: Some patients worry about looking unnatural after getting fillers or fear the outcome might not meet their expectations. Hyaluronidase allows practitioners to adjust HA fillers if the treatment needs to be modified to ensure satisfactory results. If a filler application results in an appearance that a patient is unhappy with, the filler can be dissolved and corrected, giving patients peace of mind.
2. Safety Considerations: Patient safety is a critical concern when using dermal fillers. In the rare event that an HA filler is accidentally injected into a blood vessel, it can cause serious complications. Hyaluronidase can be used to dissolve the filler quickly, mitigating potential risks and reversing the issue.
3. Flexibility and Preference: Many practitioners prefer using HA fillers because of the ability to reverse them if necessary. This flexibility means that patients can confidently try filler treatments, knowing there is an option to remove or adjust the filler if needed.
Hyaluronidase is typically diluted to varying concentrations and injected in small amounts to break down the hyaluronic acid filler in a localized area. Results from the enzyme can be seen immediately or up to 48 hours following treatment, offering a reliable solution to manage and correct filler applications.
At Hazel Clinic, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction with every cosmetic procedure, including the dissolution of dermal fillers. Understanding what to expect during and after the treatment is crucial for a smooth experience. Here's an in-depth look at the process of dissolving fillers, what happens during your treatment, and what to anticipate in the aftermath.
The Dissolving Process
Dermal fillers, primarily composed of hyaluronic acid, can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This enzyme breaks down the molecular bonds of hyaluronic acid, leading to the gradual disappearance of the filler over a period of hours to days. Hyaluronidase is injected just beneath the surface of the skin using a very fine needle.
During Your Treatment:
Administration: The hyaluronidase is carefully injected into the area where the filler is to be dissolved.
Immediate Action: The enzyme starts working almost immediately by increasing tissue permeability and breaking down the hyaluronic acid molecules.
Duration: While the enzyme begins its work quickly, the complete dissolution and noticeable results typically become apparent within 24 to 48 hours.
What to Expect After Dissolving Filler
Post-Treatment Effects:
Bruising and Swelling: Minor bruising and swelling are common and can last up to a week. These side effects are usually mild and subside on their own.
Full Results: The complete effect of the treatment can be observed after two weeks, once any residual swelling has resolved.
Follow-Up Care:
Retreating the Area: If you wish to have fillers reapplied, this can be done after seven days. This waiting period ensures that the hyaluronidase has fully dissolved the previous filler and any swelling has subsided.
Reasons to Dissolve Dermal Fillers
There are various reasons you might choose to dissolve your dermal fillers:
Over-Filled Areas: The filler has created an overfilled appearance.
Migration: The filler has moved to unintended areas.
Lumps and Bumps: Irregularities such as lumps have formed.
Asymmetry: The treated area appears uneven.
Allergic Reactions or Infections: You have experienced an adverse reaction.
Maintenance: To remove old filler remains and refresh the area after 2-3 years.
Contraindications: Who Should Avoid This Treatment
Not everyone is a candidate for filler dissolution. Avoid this treatment if you:
Have allergies to bee or wasp stings.
Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Have a history of severe allergies or anaphylactic shock.
Suffer from autoimmune diseases or are immunosuppressed.
Are under 18 years old.
Have a history of keloid scars.
Have had recent surgery, trauma, or infections in the area.
Pre-Treatment Guidelines
To ensure the best outcome and minimize risks:
Complete the “new patient form” available on our website.
Arrive five minutes early to your appointment.
Avoid alcohol and extreme exercise for 24 hours before treatment.
Do not wear makeup or creams to your appointment.
Avoid other skin treatments (fillers, lasers, chemical peels, or skin boosters) for at least four weeks prior.
Post-Treatment Care
Avoid Hot Drinks/Soups: For 24 hours post-treatment.
No Touching or Rubbing: Refrain from touching or rubbing the area for 24 hours.
Gentle Cleansing: Use light pressure only when cleaning your face.
Avoid Sun Exposure: For 14 days post-treatment.
No Makeup/Creams: For 24 hours post-treatment.
No Strenuous Exercise: For 48 hours post-treatment.
No Alcohol: For 48 hours post-treatment.
Arnica Cream/Tablets: To help soothe any bruises.
Emergency Symptoms
If you experience any of the following within 48 hours post-treatment, please contact us urgently at hello@hazelclinic.ie:
Major swelling
Difficulty breathing
Sore throat
Itching or pain
At Hazel Clinic, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction. If you're considering dermal fillers or are unhappy with previous treatments, we are here to help you achieve your beauty goals safely and effectively. Contact us and schedule your appointment with Dr. Susana Fontana today.
We look forward to welcoming you at our clinic in Donnybrook as we can help you achieve your beauty goals safely and effectively. Contact us and schedule your appointment with Dr. Susana Fontana today.
