Dissolving Filler: What to Know Before You Hit Reset
Clemens Face + Body | Brookline, Boston
Maybe you’ve had filler before and something just feels… off. The result might look uneven, puffy, or simply not like you. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to “start over,” the good news is—yes, you can.
At Clemens Face + Body in Coolidge Corner, Brookline, we specialize in both creating beautiful filler results and helping patients safely dissolve old or migrated filler when needed (and in certain cases, with the use of ultrasound). Here’s what you should know before you decide to hit reset.
Why Someone Might Dissolve Filler
Filler is not permanent, but depending on the product used, it can last longer than expected. Sometimes filler shifts subtly over time or accumulates in layers after multiple sessions. Common reasons patients choose to dissolve include:
Migration – Filler can spread if injected too superficially or in a mobile area (like the lips).
Overfilling – Over time, small “touch-ups” may lead to heaviness or imbalance.
Change in facial anatomy – As we age, bone and fat structure shift, making previous filler placement less flattering.
Desire for a more natural look – Aesthetic trends evolve, and many patients now prefer subtle, balanced results.
Dissolving doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it’s simply a way to refine your result and get back to a natural foundation.
How Filler Dissolving Works
Most modern dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA)—a naturally occurring substance in the skin that attracts and holds moisture. To dissolve it, we use an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which breaks down HA safely and efficiently.
When injected into the treated area, hyaluronidase begins working within hours, and visible reduction can typically be seen in 1–3 days.
At Clemens Face + Body, we approach dissolving with precision and care:
We use small, controlled amounts to avoid over-correction.
We perform vascular safety assessments to ensure proper placement.
We often schedule a follow-up session to assess results before refilling, if desired.
What to Expect After Dissolving
After treatment, mild swelling, redness, or tenderness is normal for a day or two. Most patients find the area settles quickly. In some cases, residual swelling or unevenness may take up to a week to resolve completely.
We typically recommend waiting at least 2–4 weeks before reinjecting with fresh filler, to allow the tissue to fully settle and for us to evaluate your natural baseline.
Is Dissolving Safe?
Yes—when performed by an experienced injector. Hyaluronidase has been used safely in medicine for decades. However, it requires anatomical expertise to avoid complications like uneven dissolving or irritation.
At Clemens Face + Body, all dissolving treatments are performed with ultrasound guidance when indicated, ensuring accuracy and safety—especially in complex areas like the lips, under-eyes, and nasolabial folds.
When You Should Not Dissolve
In some cases, what appears as “filler migration” may actually be due to natural volume changes or swelling. We always perform a thorough consultation to confirm that dissolving is truly necessary.
Patients who still have active inflammation or who recently received filler may need to wait before treatment. We’ll guide you on the safest, most effective timeline.
Starting Fresh—The Right Way
Once filler is dissolved, we often take the opportunity to create a refreshed, more balanced plan moving forward. This might include:
Strategic reinjection using smaller volumes for natural contouring.
Transitioning to collagen stimulators like Sculptra or Radiesse for long-term improvement without heaviness.
Improving skin health first, using microneedling or skin boosters before re-volumizing.
The goal is not just to erase filler, but to create a cleaner canvas for subtle, elegant results that last.
The Bottom Line
Dissolving filler doesn’t mean starting over—it’s a step toward refinement and confidence. Whether your filler migrated, feels heavy, or simply no longer aligns with your aesthetic goals, the process can restore balance and natural movement to your face.
At Clemens Face + Body in Brookline, Boston, we take an honest, measured approach to correction and enhancement—because sometimes the most beautiful results begin with a clean slate.
