Filler Dissolving

Dermal fillers made from hyaluronic acid (HA) are reversible, which is one of their key safety features. Filler dissolving is a medical treatment used to reduce or remove existing HA filler when it is no longer appropriate, has been overused, or is contributing to an unnatural result.


At Wrinkless Medical Aesthetics Clinic, filler dissolving is offered as part of a careful, doctor-led approach to facial assessment and treatment planning. The aim is always to restore balance, safety, and confidence — not to dissolve unnecessarily.


All treatments are carried out by Dr Carol Mastropierro following a detailed consultation and facial assessment.


Doctor-led aesthetic consultation in a private medical clinic

Why do dermal fillers have a bad reputation?

In recent years, dermal fillers have developed a negative reputation, largely due to overfilling, poor technique, and inappropriate product choice. In the past, fillers were often placed too superficially, in excessive volumes, or without sufficient understanding of facial anatomy and ageing patterns.

What does current evidence show about filler longevity?

Although dermal fillers are often described as lasting 6  months, growing evidence suggests that hyaluronic acid fillers can persist in the tissues for much longer than originally advertised, particularly when placed deeply or in multiple layers over time.


This means that filler may still be present even when its visible effect appears to have faded. In some cases, this accumulation can contribute to facial heaviness or altered proportions over the years.


Understanding this has changed how filler is now approached, with a greater emphasis on:

  • conservative volumes
  • appropriate product selection
  • strategic placement
  • long-term facial planning


Why you might want to dissolve your filler

  • No longer desired

    You might simply not want your filler anymore, or not like the look of it. 

  • Overfilling or distortion

    Incorret position, wrong product and filler build-up can end up looking puffy and overfilled. 

  • Lumps and bumps

    Although lumps and bumps are expected for the first few weeks after filler treatment, any lumps that persist can easily be dissolved. 

  • Preparation for surgery

    Dissolving the filler might be advised in preparation for a facial surgical consultation, eg rhinoplasty, or face lift.


    You might want to ask your surgeon if they require you to dissolve your filler before your operation. 

  • Medical Reasons

    If the filler was to cause infection, immune reactions , compression or vascular compromise, it is extremely important to seek urgent  medical help to potentially dissolve the filer.

What is filler dissolving?

Filler dissolving involves the use of an enzyme (hyaluronidase) to break down hyaluronic acid–based fillers in a controlled and targeted way. This allows existing filler to be partially reduced or fully removed, depending on the clinical indication and treatment goal.


In some cases, a single session is sufficient. In others — particularly where filler has been present for a long time or has accumulated — multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired outcome. The approach is always tailored and performed conservatively.


Not all fillers can be dissolved; this treatment applies specifically to hyaluronic acid–based fillers.

Returning to baseline or refining results


Filler dissolving does not always mean permanent removal with immediate replacement. For many patients, the goal is to return to their natural baseline and allow the tissues to settle before deciding on any further treatment.


For others, dissolving may be used as a stepwise approach, where unwanted or poorly placed filler is first reduced, and any future refilling  — if appropriate — is carried out at a later date, using more suitable products, placement, and technique.


This staged approach allows for:


  • improved facial balance
  • safer, more accurate placement
  • more natural and predictable long-term results


Any decision to re-treat is made cautiously and only after reassessment.

Dissolving process

Day 1

After a thorough consultation and physical assessment, an intra dermal test is performed to the drug used to dissolve the filler.


If negative, dissolving can go ahead at the same appointment.

Day 5-7

After a few days, you will notice that the filler has dissolved, and the initial dryness coming from the dissolve procedure resolves.

Day 14

If desired and appropriate, refilling with an appropriate product, placement and technique can occur.


You might decide or be advised to wait longer than 2 weeks if you wish to refill.

FAQs


Can all fillers be dissolved?

No. Only hyaluronic acid–based fillers  can be dissolved using hyaluronidase. Other types of fillers might  not reversible, which is why assessment of the product used is an essential part of the consultation. Please find out information about the products used before your consultation at WRINKLESS.


Does filler dissolving hurt?

Discomfort is usually mild and short-lived, though this varies depending on the area treated and individual sensitivity. Comfort measures such as topical anaesthetic may be used where appropriate. Do expect swelling after the dissolving


Will I need more than one session?

This depends on factors such as the amount of filler present, how long it has been there,  its location, and its thickness. Most patients require only one session, while others may need treatment in stages. This will be discussed during your consultation.


Can I have filler again after dissolving?

In most cases, yes. Re-treatment is assessed on an individual basis and, where appropriate, filler may be reintroduced at a later date, using conservative volumes, refined techniques, and suitable products to achieve a more balanced result.

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