When to Dissolve Your Dermal Filler
is it time to dissolve?
Dermal fillers are a great way to enhance facial features, correct volume loss, and address wrinkles. They’re often chosen for their minimal downtime and ability to provide subtle yet effective changes. However, the results of dermal fillers can evolve over time. After a few years, you may start to notice that your fillers no longer look the way they did when first injected, or perhaps they no longer align with your current aesthetic desires. In this blog post, we’ll explore all the signs that it may be time to dissolve your dermal filler.
1. Filler Migration After a Few Years
One of the most common issues that may arise with long-term dermal filler use is filler migration. Filler migration refers to when the injected filler moves from its original position, creating an unnatural or uneven look. While dermal fillers are designed to stay in place once injected, factors like the type of filler, injection technique, and facial movements can sometimes cause the filler to shift over time.
Common Areas for Filler Migration:
Under the Eyes: In the tear trough area, filler migration can cause an undesired puffy or pillowy appearance.
The Lips: Lip filler migration can result in uneven lip borders or a "smiley" effect where the filler moves outside the natural lip line, creating an unnatural fullness or bulging.
Cheeks or Jaw Line: Over time, fillers in the cheeks or jaw line can migrate, causing a less defined contour or a distorted appearance, especially if the filler was injected too superficially.
If you notice that your filler has shifted from its intended location, or if the contours of your face look different than when you first received the treatment, it may be time to consider dissolving your filler.
2. Undesired Results Over Time
Over time, dermal fillers can change in appearance as they interact with the body. Although the results of dermal filler treatments are designed to be temporary, some patients may experience changes in how the filler behaves as it ages in the skin. This can lead to less desirable effects. Hyaluronic acid based dermal fillers are hydrophilic, meaning, they attract water in the body. If too much filler is injected at first, or if additional filler builds up with multiple treatments over time, you may start to notice an overly "puffy" or exaggerated look. This can be particularly noticeable around the cheeks, jawline, or lips.
3. Shifting Aesthetic Desires
As time passes, your aesthetic goals may evolve. You might have initially opted for lip enhancement or cheek volumization, but after a few years, your preferences may have changed. You may now prefer a more subtle or natural appearance. While dermal fillers are versatile and can be adjusted over time, sometimes the changes in your goals are so significant that it’s best to dissolve the filler entirely and start fresh.
How Does Filler Dissolution Work?
The process of dissolving dermal filler involves an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which is injected into the area where the filler was placed. Hyaluronidase works by breaking down the hyaluronic acid in the filler, allowing the body to naturally absorb it.
Dissolving the filler typically takes only a few minutes, and most people notice a significant improvement within 24 to 48 hours. The process is safe, and once the filler is dissolved, you can work with your injector to decide on the next steps - whether that’s re-injecting new filler or pursuing a different treatment altogether.
Key takeaways
Over time, dermal fillers can shift, migrate, or no longer align with your aesthetic goals. Whether you’re dealing with filler migration, undesired results, or a simple change in your aesthetic desires, it’s important to know when it’s time to dissolve your dermal filler and start fresh. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, contact our expert Medical Aesthetic team at Plumpitupp Medispa for customized guidance! The beauty of dermal fillers is their flexibility - if something doesn’t look right, it can be corrected. Dissolving filler is a simple and effective way to restore balance and start new, ensuring that your appearance always aligns with your evolving aesthetic vision.