Can you un-do Fillers?

Dermal fillers can be used to help hydrate skin, restore youthful volume to an ageing face or help contour the facial features without surgery or lengthy recovery times.  The goal of dermal fillers should be to provide subtle, natural looking results; however, even in the best of hands, there can be unsatisfactory outcomes like overfilling, asymmetry, prolonged swelling, skin discoloration, distorted facial features, lumpiness or vascular compromise.  It is important that you are aware and consider that dermal filler removal is a possible option and that your practitioner is confident with its administration.

If you do not love your results, and you have used a hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, an enzyme called hyaluronidase or hyalase can be used to partially or completely dissolve the HA filler.  Hyaluronidase is not a perfect science.  It is an enzyme we have in our bodies that breaks the bonds holding hyaluronic acid molecules together.  Once broken down, the body resorbs the fluid.  I think of it like putting warm water on an ice cube; the amount dissolved is determined by the dose of the hyaluronidase- meaning the quantity and concentration- as well as how much dermal filler needs to be removed.  Hyaluronidase can either be injected into the tissue or it can be rubbed into skin with Topilase.  As specialists we can administer a variety of concentrations depending on the clinic presentation or need.  Multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired result; and, other times, re treatment with hyaluronic acid may be necessary if too much has been dissolved. Hyaluronidase begins to work almost immediately after injection.  It is administered by needle or canula and can be guided with ultrasound when needed.  I generally advise patients to allow 24- 72 hours to determine the full effect.  It can be done wherever dermal HA fillers have been used. If refilling is desired or needed, it can not be done on the same day and I recommend waiting 1-2 weeks before refilling the area. We strive to inject appropriate enzyme dosage to achieve results while minimising the effects on our natural HA.

After the procedure, it best not to touch the area for 6 hours.  No sports or make up for 48 hours.  Avoid extreme temperatures and avoid blood thinners 48 hours prior to treatment. There may be redness, swelling, pain, itchiness or bruising at the injection site.

Remember prevention is the best cure.  There is no substitute for getting your filler treatment correct the first time around.  Choose a doctor with the experience, skill and knowledge to achieve a beautiful, safe result.