Can Filler Treatment Be Reversed?

I am often asked if injectable treatments can be reversed. For most fillers today, which are commonly hyaluronic acid (HA) based, the answer fortunately is yes. HA fillers, including Juvederm and Restylane, can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Hyaluronidase is a naturally occurring substance in the body and it works by breaking up the bonds that hold the HA filler together and then the body can reabsorb it by a natural process.    

Hyaluronidase allows injectors to adjust HA fillers if the treatment needs to be modified to ensure satisfactory results. Some patients are worried about getting filler injections and looking unnatural or “what if something doesn’t look good.” Thanks to hyaluronidase we can reassure them that filler can be adjusted if needed. In addition, it is critical for patient safety. In the rare event that an HA filler has been injected into a blood vessel, hyaluronidase can be used to dissolve the filler! If you are an injector it is absolutely important that you are up to date with management of these complications and have access to a sufficient supply of hyaluronidase!

The photo below the progression of filler being dissolved immediately, 30 and 60 minutes after hyaluronidase.  

While it is helpful to understand how hyaluronidase can be used, it is also important to remember that when you are being treated by a highly trained injector HA fillers are not only very safe but can deliver a beautiful, natural result.