Myth vs Fact: The Truth About Dissolving Filler

Real MFI Patient Results | Before and After Filler Dissolver Case #717 and text that reads 'Can Fillers Be Undone? Here's What You Need To Know'

Fillers have a huge fan base thanks to their ability to contour and rejuvenate the face. But what happens if your filler results aren’t what you expected? Or what if, after the swelling has gone down, you’d like just a little less? Should you wait it out or take action? That’s where filler dissolver comes in!  

At MFI, we use an injectable enzyme called Hylenex® (hyaluronidase) to dissolve filler for a variety of reasons. While it’s not a magic wand, Hylenex is a powerful tool for treating overdone, misplaced, or extra filler. But does all the hype around hyaluronidase leave you wondering what’s a myth and what’s fact? In this post, we dissolve the myths and fill you in on the facts about dissolving fillers with Hylenex.

Can Dermal Fillers Be Reversed?

Hylenex to the Rescue: Debunking Filler Dissolver Myths 

If you’ve been overfilled (or underwhelmed) after fillers from another provider, it’s understandable to be wary about the promise of a “quick fix.” But we want to reassure you that Hylenex truly is a safe, fast, and low-risk corrective treatment for dissolving filler. Still confused or concerned? Let’s address some of the biggest myths and misperceptions about Hylenex below: 

Myth: It’s always best to wait for your filler to break down on its own.  

Truth: Waiting it out isn’t necessary and can even be detrimental to your self-esteem, particularly when you’re self-conscious about your dermal filler results. Keep in mind that filler can last longer than you think—from 6 months up to 5 years—especially under the eyes. Don’t panic if you’re not thrilled with your initial results. Before scheduling Hylenex injections, give yourself 4-6 weeks for the filler to settle and for any swelling to subside. Of course, if you’re experiencing a rare medical complication such as vascular occlusion, you should call us immediately to have your filler dissolved.  

Before and after corrective injections case #1033
This lovely patient waited over 2 years for the results of an unsatisfactory under eye filler treatment to self-resolve, but with no luck, she came to MFI for corrective injections.

Myth: Hylenex will permanently dissolve your own tissue.  

Truth: There’s virtually no risk of that happening here in the US, where only low-dose hyaluronidase is available. Hyaluronidase can dissolve your body’s natural hyaluronic acid. However, it tends to be minimal, and the body will reproduce hyaluronic acid so there is no permanent effect.

Dissolving Under Eye Filler Before and After  

Before & After contouring for Dissolving Filler Under the Eyes face shape
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Before & After contouring for Dissolving Filler Under the Eyes face shape
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Before & After contouring for Dissolving Filler Under the Eyes face shape
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Before & After contouring for Dissolving Filler Under the Eyes face shape
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Before & After contouring for Dissolving Filler Under the Eyes face shape
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After

Myth: Hyaluronidase injections completely reverse your filler results.  

Truth:  It’s not so black and white. Like filler injections, your hyaluronidase treatments are fully customized to your needs. We can offer complete filler reversal if that is your intended goal, or we can adjust the volume and placement of Hylenex to modify rather than erase your filler results. Complete reversal of filler typically requires multiple rounds of treatments.  

Myth: Dissolving filler is just for complications and horrible outcomes.  

Truth: False! While Hylenex is often considered a “miracle” treatment for correcting filler complications, it’s also suitable for patients who want a “reset” on their filler regimen or for those seeking subtle facial refinements. Our experienced injectors use Hylenex to correct or refine your look in various ways that help you look and feel your best from every angle.   

Myth: Your cheeks and lips will look distorted after filler is dissolved.  

Truth: After Hylenex, your treated area will return to how it looked before fillers. Remember, you’re in the safest hands with our experienced team of Injectors, and we always strive to help you achieve the naturally stunning results you deserve.  

Dissolving Lip Filler Before and After

Before & After contouring for Dissolving Lip Filler face shape
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Before & After contouring for Dissolving Lip Filler face shape
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Before & After contouring for Dissolving Lip Filler face shape
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After

4 Underlying Facts About Filler Dissolver 

Rest assured that most patients (especially MFI patients) are thrilled with their filler results. However, if you placed your trust in a less experienced injector’s hands, we can help. When patients approach us for corrective injections, we carefully assess their concerns before mapping out a customized approach. At MFI, using Hylenex to dissolve filler is never a one-size-fits-all procedure. Here are a few more essential truths about Hylenex if you’re still unsure about “waiting it out” or getting corrective treatment. 

  1. Hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible. One of the most appealing characteristics of HA fillers is that they’re reversible with hyaluronidase (Hylenex). Hyaluronidase works on all popular HA fillers, including JUVÉDERM® and Restylane®. Still unsure? Speak with one of our Injectors about your specific concerns.
  2. Hylenex provides a variety of filler fixes. Whether you’re unhappy with a prior filler placement, you’re experiencing a post-filler complication such as vascular occlusion, or simply feeling “filler fatigued,” Hylenex injections resolve a variety of issues. Our experienced injectors use their refined skills and trained eyes to customize your corrective treatment, and it doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. We can fully remove your filler or dissolve just a few millimeters to achieve your desired results. 
  3. Hylenex works on most facial areas. It safely and effectively dissolves fillers in the nose and cheeks and is used to break down HA fillers in other areas of the face. This includes deflating “duck lips” and taking on the Tyndall effect (bluish tint under the eyes).  
  4. Having fillers dissolved is painful.  Okay, full transparency, injecting filler dissolver can be a little spicy, but it is brief, and we have several ways to reduce the pain to make it totally worth it. Keep in mind that we always prioritize your comfort, and we can administer the same pain management protocols used during filler injections, including nitrous oxide gas and injectable lidocaine.  

Filler Dissolver FAQs 

How much does it cost to dissolve filler?  

Hylenex treatment usually costs between $900 to $1,000. However, the cost of your treatment varies depending on your needs and your Injector’s experience level. You can find more detailed pricing information on our dedicated pricing page.

How long does it take filler dissolver to work?  

Hylenex injections liquefy the gel filler immediately upon contact. It may then take 1 to 2 hours for the body to absorb the liquid. The average patient requires 1 or 2 filler dissolver treatments, and you should wait 1 to 2 days between treatments.

Can all fillers be dissolved?  

No. Only hyaluronic acid-based fillers like JUVÉDERM and Restylane can be dissolved with treatments like Hylenex. Non-HA fillers such as RADIESSE® and poly-L-lactic acid fillers like Sculptra® can’t be broken down. BOTOX® Cosmetic is also immune to hyaluronidase treatment. 

Image comparing dissolvable HA filler vs. non-dissolvable filler

We’re Here for You

Dermal fillers are your go-to for smoothing out wrinkles, adding volume where you need it, or giving you that extra confidence boost. But when your results don’t go as planned or you need a reset, our expert Injectors are ready to help you make things right.   

Restore your look and regain your confidence by reaching out to our MFI specialists today for corrective Hylenex treatments. Just request a consultation online or give us a call at (415) 445-9513.   

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