Dermal Fillers treatment
Dissolving
Safely dissolve previous filler using a clinical enzyme treatment.
- Treatment time
- Around 30–45 minutes
- Results
- Most change in 48–72 hours; full result at 2 weeks
- Longevity
- Permanent — dissolved filler doesn't return
- Downtime
- 1–2 days of swelling
- From
- £190
About Dissolving
Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid — the material most dermal fillers are made from. Filler dissolving uses it to reverse a previous treatment: overfilled lips, filler that has migrated, lumps or unevenness, or simply a result you no longer want.
It's also an important safety tool, which is why John keeps it in clinic. The enzyme starts working within minutes, and because it breaks down hyaluronic acid rather than anything else, your own tissue is unaffected.
Before & after
Key Benefits
- 01Reverses overfilled, migrated or uneven filler
- 02Corrects lumps, bumps or asymmetry from previous treatment
- 03Provides a clean slate before re-treating
- 04Works quickly — most of the change is seen within days
- 05Can be targeted to one small area or a whole region
- 06An essential safety treatment, available immediately if ever needed
Is this treatment right for me?
Dissolving suits anyone unhappy with previous hyaluronic acid filler, wherever it was placed. It only works on hyaluronic acid products — not on permanent or semi-permanent fillers or collagen stimulators — so John will ask what you had, where and when. A patch test is done first if you haven't had hyaluronidase before.
You may be suitable if…
- You have hyaluronic acid filler that is overfilled, migrated or uneven
- You'd like a previous result reversed or reset
- You have persistent lumps or asymmetry from filler
- You're not pregnant or breastfeeding
Your consultation will consider…
- What filler was used, where and when — dissolving only works on hyaluronic acid
- A patch test for the enzyme if you haven't had it before
- How much needs dissolving and whether more than one session is likely
- Whether you'd like to re-treat afterwards, and the sensible gap before doing so
What to expect
Before treatment
You'll have a consultation with John to identify the filler and plan the treatment. If you haven't had hyaluronidase before, a small patch test is placed in the forearm and checked before proceeding. Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning supplements for a few days where safe to do so.
During treatment
Numbing cream is applied, then the enzyme is injected directly into the filler with a fine needle — usually a handful of small injections. It begins working within minutes, and John may gently massage the area to help it spread. The appointment takes around 30–45 minutes including the patch-test check.
After treatment
The area will be swollen and a little tender at first — this is the enzyme working and it settles within a day or two. You'll see most of the change within 48–72 hours and the full result at about two weeks, when John can review whether a second session is needed.
Watch
Results & longevity
Filler begins breaking down immediately; most of the change is visible within two to three days and the full effect at around two weeks. Some longer-established or larger volumes of filler need a second session. Once dissolved, the filler doesn't return — the area goes back to how it would have looked without it. If you'd like to re-treat, John usually suggests waiting at least two weeks so the enzyme has fully cleared.
Recovery, side effects & aftercare
Dissolving is quick to recover from, though the treated area swells more than you might expect for the first day or two as the enzyme works. This is temporary and settles fast.
Side effects
Swelling and tenderness are expected and short-lived; bruising is possible. Because hyaluronidase also acts on your skin's own hyaluronic acid briefly, the area can look slightly deflated for a week or two before your natural volume returns. Allergic reactions are uncommon, which is why a patch test is done; a significant allergic response is rare.
Aftercare
Keep the area clean and avoid make-up on the injection points for the day. A cool compress helps with swelling. Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and alcohol for 24 hours. Don't have new filler placed for at least two weeks.
Please contact the clinic if you develop hives, spreading rash, facial swelling beyond the treated area, or any difficulty breathing — these need prompt attention.
- Downtime
- 1–2 days of swelling
- Redness
- Mild
- Swelling
- Noticeable for 24–48 hours
- Bruising
- Possible, fades within a week
- Normal activities
- Same day
Frequently Asked Questions
Will all the filler disappear?
Most, and often all, within two weeks. Older or larger amounts sometimes need a second session, which John will assess at review.
Will it dissolve my natural hyaluronic acid too?
Briefly, yes — which is why the area can look a little flat for a week or two. Your skin replaces it naturally.
How soon can I have new filler?
Usually after two weeks, once the enzyme has cleared and swelling has settled, so the new result can be judged accurately.
Does it work on all fillers?
Only hyaluronic acid fillers. It doesn't affect permanent fillers, collagen stimulators such as Sculptra, or threads.
Why do I need a patch test?
Hyaluronidase is derived from a protein some people react to. A small test dose in the forearm, checked before treatment, is a sensible precaution for anyone who hasn't had it before.
Can I have filler I didn't get here dissolved?
Yes. It helps if you know what product was used and when, but John can assess the area regardless.
Your Practitioner
John Dixon
Founder & Aesthetician
John founded Trusted Touch Aesthetics in Fulham and specialises in facial balancing, wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation. He is CPD-regulated and fully insured, and is known for taking the time to assess your face properly, explaining every option honestly and never over-treating — the aim is always a natural result that still looks like you. Clients regularly mention his calm manner, attention to detail and the aftercare follow-up that checks in on how you're healing.