Hyaluronidase is an enzyme used to dissolve hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers (such as Juvederm, Restylane, etc.). It’s typically used when someone experiences an undesirable result from a dermal filler injection, such as excessive swelling, unevenness, or when the filler migrated to an unintended area.
How Hyaluronidase Works
Hyaluronidase works by breaking down hyaluronic acid, the primary ingredient in many dermal fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, but when it’s injected as a filler, hyaluronidase can break it down faster than the body would naturally.
The enzyme breaks the bonds of hyaluronic acid molecules, allowing the body to absorb and remove the filler more quickly. This process can reverse the effects of the filler in a short amount of time.
When Hyaluronidase is Used
- Overcorrection or Migration: If a patient feels the results of their filler are too exaggerated or if the filler has moved from the intended area (such as “duck lips” or uneven cheeks), hyaluronidase can be injected into the area to dissolve the unwanted filler.
- Lumps and Irregularities: If the filler has created lumps or irregularities, hyaluronidase can smooth out the area by breaking down the filler.
- Allergic Reactions: In very rare cases, if someone has an adverse reaction or allergy to hyaluronic acid-based fillers, hyaluronidase can be used to dissolve the filler and stop the reaction.
- Correcting Mistakes: Sometimes, injections can go wrong or be placed improperly. Hyaluronidase can help correct these issues, especially when the filler has been injected too superficially or in the wrong spot.
How is Hyaluronidase Injected?
The procedure involves a small injection of hyaluronidase directly into the area where the filler needs to be dissolved. The amount used depends on how much filler needs to be broken down.
How Long Does it Take to See Results?
- Immediate results: The effects of hyaluronidase can usually be seen within a few hours to a day after the injection. The filler begins to break down quickly, and the area will often return to its natural appearance after the enzyme works.
- In some cases, multiple treatments may be necessary if the filler was used in large amounts or if the desired result isn’t achieved with a single session.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
- Allergic Reaction: Although rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to hyaluronidase.
- Swelling or Bruising: As with any injection, there may be temporary swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site.
- Over-dissolving: In rare cases, too much hyaluronidase could dissolve more filler than intended, leading to a need for additional touch-ups or corrections.
Can Hyaluronidase be Used on Non-Hyaluronic Acid Fillers?
No, hyaluronidase only works with hyaluronic acid-based fillers. For non-hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) or Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid), different methods of removal or correction would be necessary if the result is undesirable.
Conclusion
Hyaluronidase is a useful and effective tool for correcting or adjusting results from hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers. Whether you’re experiencing overcorrection, filler migration, or lumps, hyaluronidase can help reverse these effects and restore a more natural look. However, it’s important to work with an experienced injector who knows how to use hyaluronidase properly to avoid complications.