Can You Partially Dissolve Lip Filler Safely?
Lip fillers have become a go-to cosmetic treatment for fuller, more defined lips. But what happens when the results aren’t quite what you expected?
Maybe your lips feel too full, or one side looks different from the other. The good news is that you can partially dissolve lip filler if it’s made from hyaluronic acid.
I’ve treated many clients who are uncertain about their filler results. In this article, I’ll explain exactly how partial dissolution works, what makes it safe, and what you can expect from the process.
You’ll learn about hyaluronidase treatment: the steps involved, potential risks, and costs. My goal is to give you clear, honest information so that you can make the right choice for your situation.
Why Partial Dissolution Makes Sense
Not every filler result needs a complete do-over. Sometimes you just want to reduce fullness in one area or fix a minor imbalance.
Partial dissolution gives you control over the correction process. Instead of removing everything and starting from scratch, your provider can make targeted adjustments.
This approach works well when you like most of your results but want to refine specific spots. It’s also less invasive and often more cost-effective than full removal followed by complete refilling.
Think of it as fine-tuning rather than hitting the reset button.
Understanding Lip Fillers
Lip fillers work by adding volume to your lips, but sometimes adjustments are needed for better results.
What Are Lip Fillers?
Lip fillers come in different types. The most common are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance your body naturally produces. Popular brands include Juvederm and Restylane.
Some fillers are non-dissolvable, like silicone or PMMA. These can’t be dissolved with medication.
HA fillers work by attracting water to the treated area. This creates fullness and smoothness. They typically last 6 to 12 months before your body breaks them down naturally.
Why Results May Need Adjustment
Sometimes filler results don’t match your expectations. Here are common reasons people want adjustments:
Overfilling: happens when too much product is used. This creates an unnatural “duck lips” appearance.
Asymmetry: occurs when one side has more filler than the other. Your lips may look uneven or lopsided.
Filler migration: means the product has moved from where it was injected. It can create bumps or spread beyond your lip line.
Changing preferences: are also valid. What looked good a few months ago might not match your current style anymore.
Can You Partially Dissolve Lip Filler?
Yes, doctors can dissolve specific areas of hyaluronic acid filler using controlled, targeted injections for subtle corrections.
The Role of Hyaluronidase
Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid. When injected into your lips, it dissolves the filler quickly.
This treatment only works on HA-based fillers. If you have silicone or other permanent fillers, hyaluronidase won’t affect them.
The enzyme occurs naturally in your body. In cosmetic treatments, doctors use a concentrated form to target specific areas.
Partial Dissolution Explained
Doctors can dissolve just part of your filler using smaller amounts of hyaluronidase. They inject it precisely into the areas that need correction.
This approach is called “low and slow.” Your provider uses conservative doses and waits to see results. If more corrections are needed, you’ll return for additional sessions.
The process isn’t always perfectly precise. Hyaluronidase can spread slightly beyond the injection site. That’s why experienced injectors take their time and use careful techniques.
Situations Where Full Dissolution Might Be Better
Sometimes removing all your filler makes more sense than partial removal.
Severe asymmetry: affecting multiple areas is hard to fix with targeted dissolution. Starting fresh gives better results.
Migration to several spots: means the filler has spread widely. Full removal followed by new filler placement works better.
Non-HA fillers: can’t be dissolved at all. If you have permanent fillers causing problems, you’ll need surgical removal or other medical interventions.
The Procedure
The partial dissolution process involves consultation, careful injection of hyaluronidase, and monitoring your results during recovery time.
What to Expect Before Treatment
Your first step is consulting with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They’ll examine your lips and discuss your goals.
The provider will check for allergies to hyaluronidase. A small test injection might be done first.
Tell your doctor about medications, supplements, and health conditions. Some blood thinners need to be stopped before treatment to reduce bruising.
Preparation tips: include avoiding alcohol, aspirin, and vitamin E for several days beforehand. Don’t smoke, as it slows healing.
During the Procedure
Your provider may apply numbing cream to reduce discomfort. They’ll inject hyaluronidase into the targeted areas using a fine needle. You might feel slight pressure or pinching.
The actual injections take just a few minutes. A simple touch-up might require one session. More complex adjustments could need two or three appointments spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart.
Aftercare and Recovery
After treatment, some swelling and tenderness are normal. Bruising can occur where the needle enters your skin. Most people see minor redness that fades within a day or two.
Results become visible within 24 hours. Full effects typically show in 3 to 14 days as swelling resolves.
You can return to normal activities immediately. Just avoid intense exercise for 24 hours.
Risks and Considerations
Partial dissolution is generally safe when performed by qualified professionals, but allergic reactions and temporary changes can occur.
Possible Side Effects
Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Signs include severe swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing. This requires immediate medical attention.
Temporary thinning can happen if hyaluronidase dissolves more filler than intended. Your lips might look thinner than before. This usually resolves as your natural tissue adjusts.
Minor bruising, redness, and tenderness are the most common side effects. They resolve within a few days. Ice packs help reduce swelling.
Ensuring Safety
Choose an experienced provider who specializes in facial injectables. Board certification in dermatology or plastic surgery indicates proper training.
Monitor results gradually when doing partial dissolution. Wait at least a week between sessions to see true results.
Never attempt home remedies or DIY dissolution. Only medical professionals should inject hyaluronidase. Home attempts can cause serious complications like infection or tissue damage.
Cost and Emotional Considerations
Treatment costs vary by location and complexity, and managing your emotional expectations is just as important as results.
Typical Costs
Hyaluronidase treatments typically cost between $100 and $500 per session. Prices depend on your location and provider experience.
Factors affecting cost include how much filler needs dissolving and how many sessions you need. The provider’s expertise also influences pricing. Highly experienced injectors may charge more, but their skill reduces risks.
Ask about total costs upfront. Some clinics include follow-up visits, while others charge separately.
Emotional Impact
Changing your appearance brings mixed feelings. Some people feel relief seeing better proportions. Others experience anxiety during the transition.
Set realistic expectations with your provider. Partial dissolution may not create perfection. Small imperfections are normal.
Give yourself time to adjust. What looks unusual initially often feels normal after a few weeks.
Conclusion
I’ve seen clients feel so much better after partially dissolving their lip filler. It’s a safe option when you work with the right provider.
Can you partially dissolve lip filler safely? Absolutely, especially with hyaluronic acid-based products and an experienced injector who takes a careful approach.
Take your time finding a qualified professional. Be patient with the process. Your results will improve gradually, and small adjustments make a big difference.
If you’re considering this treatment, schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation. I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for hyaluronidase to work?
Hyaluronidase starts breaking down filler within a few hours. Most people see noticeable changes within 24 to 48 hours. Full results appear in about 2 weeks once all swelling subsides.
Can I get new filler after partial dissolution?
Yes, you can get new filler injected. Most providers recommend waiting at least 2 weeks after dissolution. This allows swelling to resolve completely and gives you a clear starting point.
Does dissolving lip filler hurt?
Most people describe mild discomfort similar to getting filler injected. Numbing cream or local anesthesia minimizes pain. You might feel pressure or slight burning during the injection.
Will my lips look normal after dissolving filler?
Your lips will return to their natural state after hyaluronidase dissolves all the filler. If you only dissolve part of it, your lips will be fuller than natural but less full than before treatment.
Can hyaluronidase dissolve my natural hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronidase can affect natural HA in your tissues, but this is temporary. Your body produces more naturally. Any temporary thinning resolves within a few weeks as your tissues regenerate.
