One of the features that makes hyaluronic acid dermal filler a popular choice for both providers and patients is its reversibility. If a result is not what you hoped for, or if a complication arises, hyaluronidase enzyme can dissolve the filler and restore the tissue to a closer version of its pre-treatment state. Two Chicks Aesthetics offers Filler Dissolver as a 30-minute treatment for patients who need it.
This post explains what Filler Dissolver is, who needs it, and what the process actually looks like from a patient’s perspective.
What Is Filler Dissolver?
Filler Dissolver uses hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid. Because most dermal fillers used in medical aesthetics are hyaluronic acid-based, hyaluronidase can dissolve them. The enzyme is injected into the same areas where filler was placed, and it works by breaking the chemical bonds in the filler’s structure, allowing the body to reabsorb it.
Hyaluronidase does not dissolve non-hyaluronic acid fillers, such as calcium hydroxylapatite or poly-L-lactic acid. If you have had a different type of filler placed and are unsure what was used, your provider will assess this at consultation.
When Filler Dissolver Is Used
Filler Dissolver is appropriate in several clinical situations:
- Cosmetic dissatisfaction: the result does not match your expectations, even after full swelling has resolved in two weeks.
- Overcorrection: too much filler was placed, creating an unnatural volume in one or more areas.
- Migration: filler has moved from the original placement zone over time, creating irregularities.
- Tyndall effect: a bluish or grayish discoloration near the surface of the skin, typically from filler placed too superficially.
- Vascular complications: in rare and serious cases, filler that compresses or enters a blood vessel requires immediate dissolving to prevent tissue damage.
- Preparation for new treatment: a provider may recommend dissolving existing filler to create a clean baseline before performing facial balancing.
What the Consultation Involves
Patients seeking Filler Dissolver at Two Chicks Aesthetics begin with an Aesthetic Consultation. Your provider will assess the area, document what filler is present and where, and discuss the reason for dissolution. The consultation is also where allergy testing is discussed, as a small subset of patients have sensitivity to hyaluronidase. Your provider will advise on whether a skin test is appropriate based on your history.
All pricing for Filler Dissolver is discussed at your consultation.
What the Treatment Involves
The Filler Dissolver appointment itself is 30 minutes. Topical numbing may be applied before injection. Hyaluronidase is then injected into the treatment areas using a fine needle or cannula. Patients typically see noticeable dissolution within 24 to 48 hours. In some cases, a second treatment is needed if filler was placed in large volumes or in multiple layers over time.
Some degree of swelling and bruising at injection sites is normal and temporary. The area may look hollow or deflated in the first 48 to 72 hours before tissues settle. This is expected and is not permanent.
Getting New Filler After Dissolving
If your goal is to replace dissolved filler with a new treatment, most providers recommend waiting at least two weeks after full dissolution before proceeding. This allows swelling to resolve and gives your provider a true baseline to plan the new treatment from. Some patients find the dissolution process clarifying: seeing what their face looks like without filler at the current stage helps them decide exactly what they want going forward.
Filler Dissolver and Filler Done by a Different Provider
Two Chicks Aesthetics sees patients seeking dissolution of filler placed by other providers. This is a common scenario, and the team is experienced with it. The assessment process is the same: your provider will map the existing filler, discuss the goals for dissolution, and proceed accordingly. Be prepared to share as much information as possible about your prior treatment history, including what was injected, where, and approximately when.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Filler Dissolver hurt?
The injection of hyaluronidase is similar in sensation to a filler injection. Topical numbing is used before the appointment. Most patients find the treatment tolerable. Swelling and mild soreness at injection sites are common in the 24 to 48 hours following treatment and are temporary.
Will Filler Dissolver remove all of my filler?
In most cases, a single Filler Dissolver treatment will remove the majority of hyaluronic acid filler in the treated area. For patients with significant filler buildup or filler placed in multiple layers over time, a second treatment may be needed. Your provider will assess this at your consultation and set realistic expectations.
Is Filler Dissolver safe?
Hyaluronidase has a strong safety profile and has been used in medical practice for decades. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Your provider will discuss your allergy history at the consultation. Hyaluronidase also affects the body’s own naturally occurring hyaluronic acid in the treated area, so some mild tissue deflation is normal as the body replenishes it over several weeks.
How soon can I get filler after dissolving?
Most providers recommend waiting at least two weeks after full dissolution before re-treating with filler. This allows swelling to fully resolve, gives you a chance to assess the baseline, and ensures your provider is injecting into settled tissue rather than recently dissolved material. Your provider at Two Chicks Aesthetics will advise on timing at your follow-up.
Can I dissolve lip filler specifically?
Yes. Lip filler dissolution is one of the most common applications for Filler Dissolver. Hyaluronidase effectively dissolves hyaluronic acid lip filler. The lips may appear smaller than pre-filler for a brief period as the body’s own hyaluronic acid also responds to the enzyme, but this normalizes over several weeks.
If you have filler concerns or are considering dissolution and retreatment, the right starting point is a proper assessment. Schedule your $50 Aesthetic Consultation at Two Chicks Aesthetics in Port Jefferson, or call (631) 432-5021.