The importance of Hyaluronidase during your lip augmentation journey.
Less is more. We’ve all heard it before, but when it comes to lip filler, we really need to listen. Though a well-researched, efficient cosmetic treatment, lip fillers can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes. Whether it’s filler migration, overfilling or perception drift, the solution isn’t always to add more product. In some cases, starting anew is the best course of action. Here’s why your cosmetic injector may recommend dissolving your lip filler with Hyaluronidase.
Understanding Filler Complications
Filler migration is a significant concern when it comes to lip augmentation. This occurs when the filler does not stay localized where originally placed and spreads to adjacent areas. This mobility of volume can lead to an unplanned appearance, affecting facial symmetry and harmony. For instance, filler intended to augment the lips might migrate into the surrounding perioral area, leading to an undefined lip border or an unnatural fullness beyond the lips themselves (this is often referred to as “duck lips”). While there are ways to reduce the risk of filler migration (building lip filler slowly, seeking injections with a qualified provider, etc.), factors such as an individual’s lip anatomy, lifestyle or simply time can make filler migration unavoidable.
Overfilling, the excessive use of filler, is another extremely prevalent issue in the industry right now. This over-enthusiasm can result in an outcome that looks disproportionate and unnatural. Overfilling not only affects the visual harmony of the face but can also lead to physical discomfort, such as tightness and heaviness, as the skin and underlying tissues are stretched beyond their natural capacity. Over the last decade, social media has contributed to the increase of “overfilled face” syndrome, as many were influenced to strive for overly pronounced facial features, which often often lack balance and symmetry.
Hand in hand with overfilling, perception drift can also be a reason to consider dissolving your filler. Perception drift delves into the psychological aspect of cosmetic enhancements, referring to a change in how patients view their appearance over time following filler treatments. Initially, the results may align with the patient’s expectations and desires. However, as time passes, changes in personal taste, aging or even societal trends (as is the case right now) can lead to a shift in how they perceive their enhanced features. This evolving self-image can result in dissatisfaction, where the once-desired look no longer represents your current aesthetic goals.
What is Hyaluronidase?
Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that quickly breaks down hyaluronic acid fillers. It can be used in small amounts to fix minor filler bumps or in larger amounts for emergencies, like vascular occlusions or allergic reactions, to stop tissue damage. It begins to work in minutes but may need up to 48 hours for complete effect. In case of an emergency, your injector may need to re-inject Hyaluronidase every hour until your safety can be assured. If you are looking to dissolve older filler due to lumps, overfilling or filler migration, multiple treatments may be necessary to fully break down the filler.
If your cosmetic injector does not have Hyaluronidase on hand at your injection, do not proceed with your treatment. Even if you do not plan to dissolve your filler, cosmetic injectors MUST have Hyaluronidase on hand in case of complications. Failing to have Hyaluronidase at the ready is irresponsible, negligent and truly the biggest cosmetic injector red flag.
Since Hyaluronidase is not used as frequently as other products cosmetic injectors carry, it often expires before being used. If cosmetic injectors are not willing to pay for this overhead cost to ensure your safety, just walk away. Since Hyaluronidase must be refrigerated, a telltale sign that a cosmetic injector may be neglecting their responsibility of carrying Hyaluronidase, is noticing a proper fridge for storing is not available where your injections are taking place. For example, if a cosmetic injector is willing to offer “botox parties” or “filler parties.”
Signs It’s Time to Dissolve Your Filler
Recognizing when to dissolve your filler is the first step to achieving your optimal results. If you experience one or multiple of these signs, it’s time we chat about the possibility of dissolving your filler:
An Unnatural Appearance
Admittedly, this may be a difficult sign for you to recognize on your own; however, as your injector it is my responsibility to provide my professional and honest advice. If the treated area looks disproportionate compared to the rest of your features, dissolving some volume may be recommended. Filler treatments should enhance your natural beauty, not detract from it.
Filler Migration
If you notice that the filler has moved from its original location is a clear indicator that dissolving is necessary. The most common example of this is lip filler moving beyond the lip’s borders, creating that “duck” like appearance. Migration can lead to asymmetry and an altered facial structure that doesn’t align with your aesthetic goals and leads to asymmetry.
Complications or Discomfort
You should never feel any physical discomfort, such as swelling, lumpiness, tightness or pain at the injection site beyond the healing window. If you experience any of these complications, dissolving with Hyaluronidase may be recommended.
Changed Personal Preference
As trends and your aesthetic preferences evolve, you may no longer align with your previous filler results. Dissolving your filler can provide a clean slate for treatments that align with your current personal preferences.
The Dissolving Process
While it’s easier to say ‘yes’ to additional fillers, it’s not always in your best interest. As your cosmetic injector, my priority is your safety and therefore, I will say ‘no’ to adding more filler if I feel it will interfere in the integrity of your long-term results.
If you choose to dissolve your fillers, we will go over the process in great length during your consultation. The actual injections are as efficient as dermal filler injections, however, you’ll be required to wait a minimum of one week after your Hyaluronidase treatment before any new filler is added. In fact, I typically recommend patients allow their lips to recover for 3-4 weeks prior to refilling. This allows for the area to fully dissolve and swelling to subside and for us to reassess and refine your treatment plan to align with your new goals.
Hyaluronidase injections may be temporarily uncomfortable, but lidocaine can help relieve the stringing. Prior to receiving Hyaluronidase, a small intradermal injection is done on your forearm to make sure you aren’t allergic to it. Additional treatments may be required to fully dissolve the unwanted filler. The filler dissolving process will vary for each individual.
Lip Filler in Kamloops and Kelowna, BC
If you’ve experienced filler migration, overfilling or a shift in your perception and would like to discuss the option of dissolving your filler with Hyaluronidase, do not hesitate to contact me. Remember, it is okay (and even good) to step back in order to move forward with a treatment plan that better aligns with your current aesthetic goals.
Along with my Naturopathic Doctor practice, I am proud to offer cosmetic injections in both Kelowna and Kamloops across five, convenient locations. In Kelowna, I offer botox and dermal filler at Heather Polak Aesthetics Studio and Kelowna Laser Spa. I have three Kamloops locations: Smooth Effects Kamloops, Studio 201 Skincare & Spa and Beautiful U Kamloops. To learn if I am the right cosmetic injector for you, feel free to book your complimentary consultation at the location nearest you.