As experts in oculoplastics, The Ezra Clinic is best placed to manage even the rarest and most severe complications. This before image demonstrates large abscesses caused by filler injections. The abscesses were not treated or recognised by the original practitioner. The patient required urgent surgical debridement and dissolving of the filler, with excellent results 9 months later.
What Is Filler Dissolving?
Filler dissolving is a non-surgical treatment that uses an enzyme called hyaluronidase to break down hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers. Once injected into the targeted area, the enzyme breaks down the filler, allowing the body to absorb the resulting fragments.
The treatment can be used in several areas of the face, including the lips, cheeks and delicate under-eye region. It may help correct unwanted volume, asymmetry or complications associated with previous filler treatments.
When Should You Consider Dissolving Your Fillers?
There are several reasons why patients may consider having their existing dermal fillers dissolved, including:
- Excessive filler volume that creates an unnatural or disproportionate appearance.
- Filler migration that affects the contours of the treated area.
- Asymmetry or uneven results following previous filler treatments.
- Visible lumps, bumps or irregularities beneath the skin.
- Persistent swelling associated with existing dermal filler.
Hyaluronidase may also be used to manage certain filler-related complications. However, suspected vascular occlusion requires immediate emergency assessment and treatment rather than a routine cosmetic appointment.
What Does the Treatment Involve?
Your treatment begins with a specialist consultation to assess the existing filler, discuss your concerns and determine the most appropriate approach. In complex cases, additional investigations may be recommended.
During the procedure, hyaluronidase is carefully injected into the areas containing unwanted hyaluronic acid filler. The amount required depends on the location, volume and characteristics of the filler.
The injections typically take approximately 5–10 minutes, although more complex treatments may take longer.
Mild redness, tenderness or swelling can occur afterwards. Your specialist will provide personalised aftercare instructions, including guidance on skincare, exercise and when to return for a follow-up assessment.
Results and Recovery
The effects of hyaluronidase often become noticeable within 24–48 hours, although swelling can temporarily affect the appearance of the treated area.
The final result may take up to two weeks to assess. Some patients require additional sessions, particularly when larger amounts of filler are present or a gradual approach is preferred.
Most patients can resume their usual daily activities relatively quickly, although individual recovery experiences vary.
What our patients say
“Prof Ezra and his team provided exceptional care and professionalism throughout my surgery, inspiring confidence and making the experience highly positive.”
– Ann l
Filler Dissolving Before and After
Our before-and-after gallery demonstrates how dissolving unwanted dermal filler can help improve facial contours and address previous treatment concerns.
Results vary depending on the amount and location of the original filler, the reason for dissolving and the individual’s response to treatment.
These images above, illustrate issues arising from filler dissolving. The patient initially had swelling around the eyes due to filler injections from years ago. Dissolving the filler resulted in significant hollowing around the eyes. To address this, lower lids were reconstructed with lower blepharoplasty, and mid-face elevation and fat redistribution were performed. This case highlights that in a small subset of patients, appearance post-filler dissolving can be worse than before treatment. Hence, filler dissolving should be carried out by skilled experts capable of managing potential complications.
These images demonstrate a patient attending with significant facial overfilling over many years with filler injections. This has given an unnatural appearance with a widened mid segment (cheeks). In addition, several other areas including the brow fat pads, lips, chin, and jawline, have all been over filled contributing to the unnatural appearance. This patient had a full MRI scan to evaluate the extent of the filler injections and subsequently had targeted dissolving injections provided safely and effectively.
In these photos, this patient presented with grossly overfilled cheeks and tear troughs having created a convex look to the eyes and cheek. The filler was assessed using ultrasound and targeted filler dissolving applied to restore the natural contour of the face with a much more natural appearance.
Why Choose The Ezra Clinic?
The Ezra Clinic specialises in oculoplastic surgery and aesthetic treatments involving the delicate eye area.
Our specialists have extensive experience assessing facial anatomy and managing unwanted filler, particularly in complex areas such as the tear troughs and lower eyelids.
Every treatment begins with a detailed assessment to identify the underlying concern and determine whether dissolving is appropriate. Our approach prioritises careful treatment planning, patient safety and natural-looking results.
Book a consultation at The Ezra Clinic to discuss your concerns and explore your treatment options.
FAQ
Is the Procedure Painful?
Most patients experience only brief discomfort during the injections, often described as mild stinging or pressure. Temporary tenderness may occur afterwards.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Hyaluronidase begins breaking down hyaluronic acid filler shortly after injection. Visible changes often appear within 24–48 hours, although the final result may take longer to assess.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Some patients achieve their desired result after one session, while others may require two or three treatments. This depends on the amount of filler, its location and the complexity of the correction.
Can All Types of Dermal Filler Be Dissolved?
No. Hyaluronidase works on hyaluronic acid-based fillers. Other filler materials cannot be dissolved using this enzyme and may require different management approaches.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects?
Common side effects include temporary swelling, redness, bruising and tenderness. Dissolving filler may also reveal underlying hollowing or changes in facial contours that were previously concealed by the filler.
Allergic reactions to hyaluronidase are possible and can occasionally be severe. Your specialist will assess relevant risks and discuss them before treatment.
How Soon Can I Have Fillers Again?
It is generally advisable to wait at least two weeks before considering further filler treatment, allowing the area to settle and the results to be assessed. Your specialist may recommend a longer interval depending on your individual circumstances.
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
The cost depends on the amount of filler requiring treatment and the complexity of the procedure. Following your consultation, The Ezra Clinic will provide a personalised treatment plan and pricing information.
Contact us
If you are interested in any of the treatments we offer, or require any further information, we would love to hear from you. We offer both online and face to face consultations, allowing us to accommodate your individual needs and preferences. You can reach us by phone, email or by completing the contact form below.