Dissolving

Hylenex® is a prescription form of hyaluronidase, an enzyme used in aesthetic medicine to dissolve hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler.

Filler may be dissolved for many reasons. This can include migration, unwanted volume, asymmetry, irregularities, or simply a result that no longer aligns with the patient’s natural features.

At PARA, dissolving is approached with the same intention as injecting. Our goal is not always to remove everything. When appropriate, we can dissolve selectively and reassess the face before deciding whether additional correction is needed.

Best For:

• Migrated hyaluronic acid filler
• Overfilled or heavy appearance
• Unwanted filler
• Asymmetry or irregularities related to filler
• Lumps or product accumulation when clinically appropriate
• Preparing an area for thoughtful retreatment
• Patients wanting to return closer to their natural baseline

Sometimes the most refined treatment is knowing when to take something away.

We believe filler should support your natural anatomy, not compete with it. When previous filler begins to look heavy, migrated, unbalanced, or simply no longer feels like you, dissolving can provide an opportunity to reset.

Every patient is assessed individually. We consider where the filler was placed, what product may have been used, how long it has been present, the surrounding anatomy, and what you ultimately want to achieve.

When possible, we favor a measured approach. This may mean selectively dissolving an area rather than automatically removing all existing filler.

After the tissue has settled, we can reassess with fresh eyes and determine whether anything truly needs to be replaced.

Most patients experience: 

Downtime is generally minimal, although the treated area can temporarily look different as swelling resolves.

You may experience:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness
• Bruising
• Temporary changes in contour

Because hyaluronidase can cause allergic reactions, including rarely serious reactions, your provider will review relevant medical and allergy history and discuss risks before treatment.

Hylenex begins breaking down hyaluronic acid filler relatively quickly, but the immediate appearance can be affected by swelling.

For this reason, we prefer to allow the area time to settle before evaluating the final result or making decisions about additional filler.

Some patients achieve their desired correction with one session. Others may require additional treatment depending on the amount, location, and characteristics of the filler present.

Our priority is correction with restraint, not rushing to refill the area.

Does Hylenex dissolve every type of filler?

No. Hylenex is used to break down hyaluronic acid-based fillers. It does not dissolve products such as Sculptra® or calcium hydroxylapatite fillers such as Radiesse®.

Do I have to dissolve all of my filler?

Not necessarily. Depending on your anatomy and concern, your provider may recommend targeted dissolving rather than removing all filler from an area.

How quickly will I see results?

The enzyme begins acting quickly, but swelling can temporarily make it difficult to assess the final result. We allow the tissue to settle before determining whether additional treatment is necessary.

Can I have filler again after dissolving?

Yes, when appropriate. We generally recommend allowing the area to settle and then reassessing your natural anatomy before creating a new treatment plan.

Will Hylenex dissolve my natural hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronidase can also temporarily break down naturally occurring hyaluronic acid in the tissue. The body naturally replenishes hyaluronic acid over time. Your provider will discuss this as part of informed consent.

Is filler dissolving risk-free?

No. As with any prescription treatment, Hylenex has potential risks. Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and allergic reactions can occur. Your provider will review your history, examine the treatment area, and discuss risks and alternatives before proceeding.

What if I am experiencing severe pain or skin changes after filler?

Severe or increasing pain, blanching or unusual skin discoloration, vision changes, or other concerning symptoms after filler require urgent medical evaluation. These situations should not be treated as a routine cosmetic dissolving appointment.