Injectable fillers have continued to grow in popularity throughout the 21st century. First time filler patients often feel nervous undergoing their first treatment. Fortunately, hyaluronic acid fillers and some other types of fillers have an injectable antidote. This can ease the nerves of these patients. Even though the chances of a botched procedure or major complication are low. For the few who end up with botched hyaluronic acid filler, our injectors can dissolve it. Then, re-inject new filler using advanced methods. Seattle Plastic Surgery offers hyaluronidase injections to dissolve filler in Seattle and Tacoma.
WHAT IS USED TO DISSOLVE FILLER?
The most common agent used to dissolve filler in Seattle is hyaluronidase. Much like hyaluronic acid which is the base for most dermal fillers, hyaluronidase is found naturally in the body. This makes it an extremely safe procedure with little risk. In your body, hyaluronidase breaks down hyaluronic acid and contributes to the natural turnover of this acid.
When injected, it breaks down the hyaluronic acid in the filler. It can lead to full dissolution of filler in around 48 hours. Depending on the specific filler, the area, and your metabolism, you may need additional injections of the agent.
For fillers not made of hyaluronic acid, other agents or methods are used to dissolve these fillers. Before receiving any filler injection, you and your injector should discuss your goals and filler options. Hyaluronic acid fillers are favored because of their quick, easy antidote. For first time filler patients, these are usually the most suitable. For certain areas, like the lips, it is rare to inject non-hyaluronic acid fillers.
At your consultation, you and your injector can discuss the pros and cons of each type of filler. As well as determine the one that best serves your needs.
Dissolving Radiesse
Radiesse’s main ingredient is calcium hydroxyapatite. Therefore, it will not react to hyaluronidase. Prior to 2018, Radiesse was considered a filler that had no immediate reversal agent. However, sodium thiosulfate was effective in dissolving Radiesse. While trials continue, it is likely that Radiesse will soon have a dissolving agent like Juvederm and Restylane.
Other Options
For other fillers like Bellafill, Sculptra, and others, there is no quick and easy way to dissolve these fillers. The need to dissolve these fillers due to injector error or complications is rare. However, you should always seek out an experienced injector like Dr. Jonov or the physician trained injectors at Seattle Plastic Surgery.
In uncommon circumstances fillers may need dissolved because of a botched case or complication. In these cases, steroid injections are typically the first try. These injections increase your body’s immune response and can lead to faster metabolization of the filler. If treating a bad result, often the best way to fix botched Sculptra or similar fillers is to wait. In extreme cases, non-reversible fillers can be surgically removed. Although, this is highly unlikely.