Filler Dissolving: What to Expect and How It Works

Confidence should never feel forced. Fillers are a popular way to restore lost volume and enhance facial features but sometimes things just don’t turn out the way you imagined. Whether you’ve changed your mind, the results are uneven or the look just isn’t you, don’t hesitate to get that fresh start.

Filler dissolving is a safe, medically led service that helps more people every day move toward softer, more natural results. You’re not alone if you’re considering it. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about filler dissolving. From why people dissolve their fillers to how it works and what you can expect, we’re here to help you make the right decision for you. As always, we’ll do it with honesty, calm, and the support you need.

Why Would Someone Want to Dissolve Filler?

There are many reasons people choose to dissolve their fillers. It might simply be that you’re not happy with how it looks. Or it could be that you no longer want the specific look. Here are the most common reasons: 

 • It doesn’t look right. It may be because of asymmetry, overfilled or simply not what you wanted.

 • Too much volume. Overfilling is not uncommon, especially given the recent trend toward a more natural look.

 • Migration. Eventually, the filler can move from its original area, creating puffiness or a blur around the edges.

 • Returning to natural beauty. You might want to wipe the slate clean and forever return to the way you were to give you options or simply get used to a new or reshaped face.

 • Emotional desire. When you look in the mirror, you should be that; if not, you’re entitled to want to be.

What Fillers Can Be Reversed?

The fillers we use at VIVA are largely comprised of hyaluronic acid (HA) – a naturally occurring substance in the body. These fillers are the most commonly used throughout the industry, and the positive is they can be dissolved without consequence. We will check what product was used if you have had a filler elsewhere. So, only fillers based on

hyaluronic acid react to the dissolving treatment we utilize, which is called hyaluronidase. Fillers that are not dissolvable are commonly referred as permanent or semi permanent. These are less popular, and they include substances the body doesn’t naturally metabolize. If you have no idea what kind you have, a consultation will clear things up before you do anything.

The bottom line? Most likely, if your filler is HA-based, it can be dissolved fast and safely.

And So How Does It Work, the Dissolving of the Body?

Filler dissolving is a fast, simple treatment that’s medically led and performed in our clinic. It relies on a product called hyaluronidase, which is painstakingly injected in the small part of your face where the filler resides. This tears up the filler so your body naturally can take it up. 

Here is how it generally plays out:

 • We begin with an initial consultation to examine the area, discuss your aims and ascertain what type of filler is involved.

 • If everything fits the bill, we’ll run you through the process and perform a patch test if necessary.

 • The area is cleansed, and some numbing cream could be applied to keep you comfortable.

 • A small dose of hyaluronidase is injected directly into the unwanted volume.

What Happens After the Procedure?

You’ll probably begin to see some changes after 24–48 hours. It can normally take two weeks to see full effects based on how much filler you used and how your body responds. The purpose, it’s not just to take away — it’s to restore balance, to return your features to a place that feels profoundly more like yourself.

It’s also common to experience some short-term side effects after the treatment, especially within

the first day or two. Here’s what you can expect:

 • Light swelling or redness: This is normal and should subside within a few days.

 • Tenderness or mild bruising: As when you first had filler injected, treated areas may be sensitive to the touch.

 • You can see a few days after surgery: “You will see something right away, but … it’s not an immediate result. You might notice your nose less bloated. You can also expect to experience swelling.

May I Have New Filler After Dissolving?

Yes, absolutely. Long gone of the “overfilled” appearance, many of our patients use the process of dissolving old filler as a first step to a rejuvenated, refreshed, and natural treatment plan. We typically tell patients to wait two weeks before getting more filler. This way your skin has time to rest, any swelling will be gone, and we can work off of a completely blank slate. Re-treatment is not aiming for overcorrection. It is to take a more measured and proportionate approach that works with your features and feels like you. Whether you’re looking to hit the pause button or give it another go — we’ll help you make that determination with confidence.