Short Answer: Yes, It’s Possible to Dissolve Some Filler and Not All

It is possible to partially dissolve dermal fillers using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Skilled injectors can target specific areas to reduce excess filler while preserving the surrounding filler. This technique requires precision to ensure only the desired amount is dissolved, making it important to choose an experienced professional for this procedure.

How Does Partial Filler Dissolving Work?

Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvederm and Restylane. During a partial dissolving procedure, the injector administers small amounts of hyaluronidase into specific areas to reduce volume in overfilled or uneven spots while maintaining filler in the desired regions. This approach can fine-tune results by:

• Correcting Overfilled Areas: Reduces excess volume in areas like the lips, cheeks, or tear troughs.
• Improving Symmetry: Balances asymmetrical results by targeting one side of the face.
• Refining Facial Contours: Helps achieve a more natural appearance by softening sharp or uneven edges.

When Should You Consider Partial Filler Dissolving?

Partial filler dissolving is ideal for those who are generally satisfied with their results but want to make minor adjustments. Common reasons to consider partial dissolving include:

• Overfilled Areas: If certain areas, like the lips or cheeks, appear too puffy or unnatural.
• Lumps or Bumps: If small lumps or bumps form due to uneven filler placement.
• Asymmetry: If one side of the face looks fuller than the other.
• Change in Aesthetic Preferences: If you want to reduce filler in specific areas while maintaining volume elsewhere.

What to Expect During Partial Filler Dissolving

The procedure for partially dissolving fillers is similar to a full dissolving treatment but with more targeted application. Here’s what to expect:

• Consultation: Your provider will evaluate your current filler placement and discuss the areas to be treated.
• Injection Process: Small amounts of hyaluronidase are injected into the specific areas needing adjustment. The enzyme starts breaking down the filler immediately.
• Monitoring: Results are assessed after 24 to 48 hours. In some cases, additional touch-ups may be needed to achieve the desired balance.

The process is usually quick and minimally invasive, with minimal discomfort or downtime.

Can Partial Dissolving Be Done with All Fillers?

No, partial dissolving is only possible with hyaluronic acid-based fillers. Hyaluronidase does not work on non-hyaluronic acid fillers like Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) or Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid). If you need to adjust non-HA fillers, other options such as massage, steroid injections, or surgical removal may be required.

How Much Filler Can Be Dissolved?

The amount of filler that can be dissolved depends on the concentration and quantity of hyaluronidase used. Skilled injectors can dissolve small amounts with precision, but achieving the perfect balance can be challenging. It may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired outcome without affecting the surrounding filler.

Risks and Considerations for Partial Filler Dissolving

While partial dissolving can provide excellent results, it comes with certain risks, including:

• Over-Dissolving: If too much hyaluronidase is used, it can dissolve more filler than intended, leading to volume loss in areas you wanted to maintain.
• Asymmetry: Improper placement of hyaluronidase can cause uneven results, making one side appear less filled.
• Allergic Reactions: Hyaluronidase is derived from animal proteins, so it’s important to discuss any allergies with your provider before treatment.

Choosing a highly experienced injector is crucial for minimizing these risks and achieving the best possible outcome.

How to Maintain Filler Results After Partial Dissolving

To maintain your ideal results after partial dissolving, consider these tips:

• Schedule Maintenance Treatments: If volume is reduced more than desired, a touch-up session with additional filler may be needed.
• Monitor for Changes: Follow up with your injector to assess results and discuss any adjustments.
• Choose the Right Filler: Using a softer, reversible HA filler allows for easier adjustments in the future.

Is Partial Filler Dissolving Permanent?

Yes, dissolving with hyaluronidase is permanent in the sense that the targeted filler is broken down and removed from the body. However, remaining filler in untreated areas will continue to degrade naturally over time. Maintenance treatments may be needed to preserve the desired look as the filler gradually breaks down.

Conclusion

Partial filler dissolving is a precise and effective way to refine filler results without removing all the volume. For the best outcome, consult a licensed and experienced injector who can tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Understanding the limitations and benefits of hyaluronidase is key to achieving balanced, natural-looking results.