What Is Hyaluronidase?
Hyaluronidase is a specialized enzyme that safely and effectively dissolves hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers. Originally used in general medicine since 1949, hyaluronidase has become an essential tool in aesthetic medicine for correcting unwanted filler results, addressing complications, or simply reversing treatments that no longer align with your aesthetic goals.
This injectable enzyme works by breaking down the molecular bonds that hold hyaluronic acid filler together, transforming the gel back into a liquid form that your body naturally absorbs and eliminates. Results are often visible within hours, making it an invaluable solution for both cosmetic corrections and emergency situations.
When Is Hyaluronidase Used?
Overfilled or Overcorrected Areas
Reduce excessive filler volume in lips, cheeks, or other facial areas for a more natural, balanced appearance
Asymmetry Correction
Dissolve filler in specific areas to restore facial symmetry and balance
Lumps, Bumps, or Irregularities
Smooth out uneven filler distribution or visible nodules for seamless results
Unwanted Filler Placement
Remove filler that has migrated beyond the intended treatment area
Vascular Complications
Emergency treatment for filler-induced vascular occlusion to restore blood flow
Change of Aesthetic Preference
Reverse previous filler treatments that no longer match your desired look
Preparation for New Treatment
Dissolve old filler before starting fresh with a new treatment plan
Which Fillers Can Be Dissolved?
Hyaluronidase works exclusively on hyaluronic acid-based fillers, including:
- Juvéderm family (Juvéderm Ultra, Voluma, Vollure, Volbella)
- Restylane family (Restylane, Lyft, Refyne, Defyne, Kysse)
- RHA Collection (RHA 2, RHA 3, RHA 4)
- Belotero Balance
- Other hyaluronic acid-based products
Important: Hyaluronidase does not dissolve non-hyaluronic acid fillers such as Sculptra, Radiesse, Bellafill, or collagen-based products. These require different approaches for removal or correction.
How Does Hyaluronidase Work?
Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that specifically targets hyaluronic acid molecules through a process called hydrolysis:
- Breaks molecular bonds - The enzyme cleaves the bonds linking hyaluronic acid molecules together in the filler gel
- Converts gel to liquid - As bonds break, the structured filler gel transforms back into a liquid form
- Natural elimination - Your body’s lymphatic system naturally absorbs and eliminates the broken-down hyaluronic acid
- Targeted precision - When injected strategically, hyaluronidase affects only the treatment area
The breakdown process begins immediately upon injection, with visible results typically appearing within 24-48 hours as the dissolved filler is metabolized.
Benefits of Hyaluronidase Treatment
- Rapid correction - visible improvement within hours to days
- Reversible solution - provides peace of mind for filler treatments
- Precise targeting - can dissolve filler in specific areas while preserving others
- Emergency response - critical for addressing vascular complications
- Fresh start - allows complete reset before new filler placement
- Minimal downtime - brief procedure with quick recovery
- Safe and effective - well-established safety profile when administered by qualified professionals
- Flexible solution - addresses everything from minor tweaks to complete reversal
What to Expect During Treatment
Hyaluronidase treatment is typically a quick procedure taking 10-15 minutes, though observation time is required afterward for safety monitoring.
Treatment Process:
Consultation & Assessment
Evaluate areas of concern, review medical history, and assess for potential allergies (particularly bee venom)
Allergy Screening
Confirm no history of bee sting allergies, as this increases risk of adverse reaction to hyaluronidase
Preparation
Clean treatment area and mark precise injection points for targeted filler dissolution
Injection
Strategic hyaluronidase placement using fine needles to dissolve unwanted filler
Massage
Gentle but firm massage of treated area to aid enzyme distribution and filler breakdown
Observation Period
Monitored for 60 minutes post-treatment to ensure no adverse reactions occur
Aftercare Instructions
Receive guidance for post-treatment care and warning signs to watch for
Some mild discomfort, stinging, or burning sensation during injection is normal. Swelling and tenderness are expected after treatment.
Results & Timeline
Hyaluronidase works rapidly, with most patients seeing improvement within hours. However, understanding the full timeline helps set appropriate expectations.
Immediately: Enzyme Activation
Hyaluronidase begins breaking down hyaluronic acid bonds right away; some immediate softening may be noticeable
24-48 Hours: Visible Improvement
Significant filler dissolution becomes apparent as broken-down HA is absorbed by the body
1 Week: Full Assessment
Swelling subsides and final results become clear; best time to evaluate if additional treatment is needed
2 Weeks: Ready for Re-treatment
Area is fully healed and ready for new filler placement if desired
Important Note: Multiple treatments may be necessary for complete dissolution, especially with dense or deeply placed filler. Your injector will assess results after one week and determine if additional sessions are needed.
Ready to Smooth Wrinkles & Refresh Your Appearance?
Schedule a consultation to discuss your Botox treatment goals and discover how natural-looking results can enhance your confidence.
Safety & Important Considerations
Generally Safe with Proper Protocols
Hyaluronidase has been used safely in medical and aesthetic settings for decades. When administered by qualified professionals with appropriate safety protocols, complications are rare.
Potential Side Effects:
Common (Temporary):
- Swelling at injection sites (typically resolves in 1-2 weeks)
- Bruising (varies by individual)
- Redness and tenderness
- Mild discomfort or stinging during injection
Rare but Serious:
- Allergic reactions (local or systemic)
- Anaphylaxis (extremely rare but life-threatening)
Critical Safety Information:
Bee Venom Allergy Warning
Important Considerations:
- Hyaluronidase can also break down naturally occurring hyaluronic acid in your skin, potentially causing temporary volume loss beyond the filler itself
- Results can sometimes be unpredictable, requiring multiple sessions for optimal outcomes
- Your injector will observe you for 60 minutes post-treatment to monitor for adverse reactions
- Symptoms of allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of tongue/lips/eyelids, wheezing, or throat tightness - seek immediate medical attention if these occur
Preparation & Aftercare
Before Your Treatment
Proper preparation ensures safety and optimal results:
- Disclose all allergies, especially bee venom or previous reactions to hyaluronidase
- Avoid blood thinners for 7-10 days if possible (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) to minimize bruising
- Limit alcohol 24 hours before treatment
- Arrive with clean skin (no makeup on treatment areas)
- Plan for observation time - you’ll need to remain at the clinic for 60 minutes post-treatment
- Arrange transportation if you’re concerned about potential reactions
After Your Treatment
Follow these aftercare guidelines for best results:
- Massage treated area firmly for several minutes to aid filler breakdown
- Watch for allergic reactions for the first 24 hours (difficulty breathing, severe swelling, hives)
- Expect swelling and bruising - this is normal and typically resolves in 1-2 weeks
- Avoid touching or pressing excessively beyond recommended massage
- Apply ice gently if needed for comfort and swelling reduction
- Avoid intense exercise for 24-48 hours
- Stay hydrated to support lymphatic drainage
- Wait 7-14 days before new filler placement
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, throat tightness, or severe swelling.
Why Choose Still Time Beauty for Hyaluronidase Treatment in Boulder?
Board-Certified Expertise
Our Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner has extensive experience in both filler placement and dissolution, with advanced training in complication management and aesthetic corrections.
Safety-First Approach
We follow strict safety protocols including comprehensive allergy screening, proper observation periods, and emergency preparedness for all hyaluronidase treatments.
Precise Correction
We specialize in targeted filler dissolution that addresses specific concerns while preserving desired results in other areas - never an all-or-nothing approach.
Judgment-Free Care
Whether correcting previous treatments from elsewhere or adjusting our own work, we provide compassionate, professional care focused entirely on achieving your desired outcome.
Convenient Boulder Location
Easily accessible for Boulder County residents including Superior, Louisville, Lafayette, Broomfield, Westminster, and Arvada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will dissolving filler hurt?
You may feel a brief stinging or burning sensation during injection, similar to the original filler placement. Most patients report the discomfort is mild and very tolerable. The treated area may feel tender afterward as the filler breaks down.
How long until I can get new filler?
Most patients can be re-treated with fresh filler 7-14 days after hyaluronidase treatment, once swelling has fully subsided and the area has healed.
Will all my filler dissolve at once?
This depends on several factors including filler type, depth of placement, and how long it’s been in place. Some areas may require multiple hyaluronidase treatments for complete dissolution. Your injector will assess results after one week.
Can I dissolve just part of my filler?
Yes! Hyaluronidase can be injected very precisely to target specific areas while preserving filler in other locations. This allows for fine-tuning and correction without complete reversal.
Is the dissolution permanent?
Yes, once hyaluronic acid filler is broken down by hyaluronidase, it’s permanently dissolved and eliminated by your body. If you want filler again, you’ll need new injections.