Injectable Treatments
Dermal Filler Dissolving
Injections of hyaluronidase used to reduce or remove previous hyaluronic acid dermal filler that's too full, uneven, lumpy or has migrated. A prescription-only medicine, so a consultation with an appropriate prescriber is required.
Authored by Kelly Rafique, published 13 August 2026.
Clinically reviewed by Kelly Rafique, last reviewed 29 August 2026.
Dermal filler dissolving is a treatment used to reduce or remove hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal filler using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. It may be suitable if you feel a previous HA filler result is too full, uneven, lumpy, has migrated, or no longer suits your face. It can also be used as part of managing certain filler-related complications (which may require urgent assessment). Dissolving is only appropriate for HA-based fillers — it does not dissolve other filler types. Your appointment includes an assessment to confirm whether dissolving is appropriate, explain realistic outcomes, and discuss risks and alternatives. Most appointments take around 45 minutes depending on the area, complexity and whether a patch test or staged approach is needed. Hyaluronidase is a prescription-only medicine in the UK, so a consultation with an appropriate prescriber is required before treatment.
Concerns Addressed
- Lumps
- Asymmetry
- Migration
Performed by
Kelly Rafique
Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner
Why Choose a Registered Nurse Prescriber?
Because your safety means everything to me.
- Over 17 years of NHS experience
- A degree in adult nursing
- A Master's in Advanced Clinical Practice
- Registered as a non-medical prescriber with a V300 qualification
- Level 7 qualification in History Taking and Physical Examination for Advancing Practice
What Happens During Treatment
We begin with a consultation to review your treatment history (what was used, when, where, and any previous dissolving), your concerns and your goals. We'll examine the area and discuss whether dissolving, observation, or another approach is most appropriate. Photographs will be taken with your consent for your confidential record. The skin is cleansed and disinfected, and numbing cream may be used if needed. Hyaluronidase is then injected in small amounts into the area where the HA filler is believed to be present. We'll monitor your comfort and tissue response throughout. Before you leave, we'll explain what changes you may notice over the next hours to days, provide aftercare guidance, and arrange follow-up — sometimes more than one session is needed.
Expected Results
Changes can often be noticeable immediately or within 24–72 hours, though it may take longer for swelling to settle and the final effect to become clear. Results vary depending on the amount and type of HA filler, how long it has been in place, and individual tissue response — some clients need staged sessions to reach their goal safely.
Downtime & Recovery
Downtime is usually minimal.
Side Effects, Risks & Contraindications
Possible side effects
- Stinging during treatment
- Redness, swelling and tenderness at injection sites
- Bruising
- Temporary unevenness as product disperses and swelling settles — most visible effects improve within 2–7 days, though bruising can last longer
Risks
- Over-correction (dissolving more filler than intended) or under-correction
- Temporary worsening of asymmetry, or loss of desired volume if previous filler was contributing to support
- Infection and inflammatory reactions
- Allergic reaction to hyaluronidase, which can rarely be serious — seek urgent help for widespread rash, facial swelling, wheeze or breathing difficulty
- As with any injectable treatment, there is a rare but serious risk of vascular occlusion — urgent assessment is required for severe pain, blanching, mottling or colour change, blistering, worsening swelling, or any visual symptoms.
- A history of allergy to bee or wasp stings may mean a higher risk of allergic reaction — tell your prescriber about any allergies during consultation; this doesn't automatically rule out treatment, but suitability will be assessed
Contraindications
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Active infection in the treatment area
- Known hypersensitivity to hyaluronidase or any ingredient
Aftercare
For the first 24 hours, avoid rubbing or massaging the area unless specifically advised. Keep the skin clean and avoid makeup for 12 hours (or until injection points have closed). Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, saunas/steam rooms and very hot showers for 24–48 hours to reduce swelling and bruising. Use gentle skincare for 48 hours and avoid retinoids, strong acids and exfoliation until any redness has settled. Avoid facials, massage, microneedling, chemical peels and energy-based treatments on the treated area for 1–2 weeks. Contact us urgently if you develop increasing pain, spreading redness/heat, discharge, blistering, significant colour change (white/grey/blue), or any visual symptoms. Seek emergency help immediately if you develop breathing difficulty or eye symptoms.
Pricing
| Dermal Filler Dissolving | £120 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an appointment for Dermal Filler Dissolving take?
Around 45 minutes
Is there any downtime after Dermal Filler Dissolving?
Downtime is usually minimal.
What results can I expect from Dermal Filler Dissolving?
Changes can often be noticeable immediately or within 24–72 hours, though it may take longer for swelling to settle and the final effect to become clear. Results vary depending on the amount and type of HA filler, how long it has been in place, and individual tissue response — some clients need staged sessions to reach their goal safely.
Hyaluronidase is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. A face-to-face consultation with an appropriate prescriber is required before treatment. Dissolving is only effective for hyaluronic-acid dermal fillers and outcomes vary; complete removal in one session cannot be guaranteed.