Dissolving Lip Filler Treatments in London
Corrective intervention for undesired dermal filler outcomes represents a specialised aspect of aesthetic medicine. Our London practice provides hyaluronidase-based dissolution services for patients experiencing complications, aesthetic dissatisfaction, or migration following previous lip augmentation procedures. This enzymatic approach offers precise reversal of hyaluronic acid-based products through targeted biological degradation.
The decision to pursue filler removal stems from various clinical presentations. Some patients develop asymmetry or irregularities weeks after initial treatment. Others notice gradual migration beyond the intended lip line, creating unnatural contours. Occasionally, vascular compromise necessitates immediate intervention. Whether dissolving becomes necessary for medical or aesthetic reasons, our practitioners apply systematic protocols refined through hundreds of documented cases.
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Dissolving Lip Filler Treatments Cost: Pricing Overview
Filler dissolving treatment pricing reflects procedural complexity and enzyme concentration requirements:
- Single Area Dissolution: £200-£280
- Bilateral Lip Treatment: £350-£450
- Complex Migration Cases: £500-£650
- Emergency Vascular Protocol: £600-£800
Consultation fees are waived when proceeding with same-day treatment. Multiple-session packages accommodate extensive filler removal requiring staged intervention.
Before and After Dissolving Lip Filler Treatment
The dissolving process produces observable changes across several timeframes:
- Initial enzyme activity within 24-48 hours
- Progressive volume reduction over 3-7 days
- Restoration of natural lip shape within two weeks
- Complete resolution of filler material typically achieved by day 14
- Tissue remodelling continues through week 4
Photographic documentation captures baseline filler distribution, immediate post-treatment appearance, and sequential resolution. Patients often report renewed confidence as their natural anatomy re-emerges. Those who previously avoided certain expressions due to unnatural placement rediscover uninhibited facial movement.
What is Dissolving Lip Filler?
Lip filler dissolving represents enzymatic hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid polymers through targeted hyaluronidase administration. This naturally occurring enzyme breaks down hyaluronic acid in the cleaving glycosidic bonds within the polysaccharide chains. The procedure works by breaking molecular structures that maintain dermal volume, allowing rapid metabolic clearance.
Hyaluronidase is injected directly into areas containing unwanted filler. The enzyme called hyaluronidase exists naturally in human tissues, where it regulates extracellular matrix permeability. Therapeutic formulations concentrate this biological activity to achieve controlled degradation. The treatment works through specific biochemical pathways, distinguishing it from mechanical extraction or spontaneous resorption.
Not all cosmetic fillers respond to this approach. The enzyme specifically targets hyaluronic acid – calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and permanent silicone products remain unaffected. Before treatment, we verify composition through patient history and, when necessary, diagnostic imaging.
Many dermal fillers currently used in aesthetic practice contain cross-linked hyaluronic acid. This chemical modification extends longevity but also influences dissolution kinetics. Heavily cross-linked products may require concentrated doses of hyaluronidase or sequential applications to achieve complete removal.
The Dissolving Lip Filler Process: Step by Step
Pre-Treatment Assessment (30 minutes)
Clinical evaluation establishes distribution patterns. We document previous lip treatment details, including product type, injection dates, and initial practitioner technique. Palpation identifies lumps of filler and areas of migration. Digital imaging captures baseline morphology for outcome comparison.
Patch test protocols screen for potential allergic reaction to hyaluronidase preparations. While rare, hypersensitivity can occur with repeated enzyme exposure. Medical history review identifies risk factors including previous adverse reactions or concurrent medications affecting coagulation.
Preparation Protocol (15 minutes)
Antiseptic cleansing minimizes infection risk. Topical anaesthetic may be applied, though the dissolving agent itself causes minimal discomfort. We mark injection sites corresponding to filler deposits, planning enzyme distribution for uniform degradation.
Treatment Implementation (20-40 minutes)
Hyaluronidase into your lips is introduced via fine-gauge needles using precise injection techniques. The enzyme disperses through tissue planes, seeking hyaluronic acid molecules. We inject strategically to address both visible irregularities and deeper filler accumulations.
For migration cases, treatment extends beyond visible lip borders to capture displaced material. Lumps of filler receive direct injection to accelerate breakdown. The dissolving procedure adapts to individual anatomical presentations rather than following standardised patterns.
Patients experience mild pressure and occasional stinging during injection. The sensation differs markedly from initial placement due to altered tissue architecture. The procedure typically requires 15-30 minutes, depending on filler quantity and distribution complexity.
Immediate Post-Treatment Period
Dissolution commences within minutes as hyaluronidase begins enzymatic activity. Initial swelling may paradoxically increase as filler fragments mobilise. This temporary volume expansion typically resolves within a few days. We avoid massage immediately post-procedure, allowing controlled enzyme diffusion.
Benefits of Dissolving Lip Filler
Correction of Aesthetic Complications – Uneven filler distribution creates asymmetric lip contours that undermine facial harmony. The dissolving process restores balance by selectively removing excess product. Patients who’ve experienced overfilled or disproportionate results regain natural facial expressions.
Resolution of Migration Issues – Filler migration occurs when product moves beyond intended anatomical boundaries. The phenomenon, like filler migration into perioral tissues, creates unnatural ridges and distorts the lip line. Hyaluronidase removes unwanted or migrated filler, re-establishing proper anatomical definition.
Management of Vascular Complications – Though uncommon, they can block arterial circulation, creating ischemic risk. Immediate hyaluronidase administration in such emergencies can prevent tissue necrosis. The enzyme’s rapid action removes material obstructing blood flow, potentially salvaging compromised tissues.
Facilitation of Revision Procedures – Before placing new filler, complete dissolution of previous lip enhancement allows fresh anatomical assessment. This approach prevents cumulative overcorrection and enables precise treatment planning. Many practitioners prefer starting with a clean canvas when inheriting complex histories.
Psychological Relief – Living with unwanted lip filler causes significant distress. Patients report constant self-consciousness and social withdrawal. The dissolving lip filler procedure offers psychological benefits beyond physical correction – the knowledge that reversal is possible provides immediate emotional relief.
Rapid Timeline – Unlike waiting for spontaneous resorption, which may take up to two weeks or longer, enzymatic dissolution produces visible results within days. This expedited timeline particularly benefits those experiencing complications or urgent aesthetic concerns.
Our Dissolving Lip Filler Treatments
Standard Dissolution Protocol – We offer lip filler dissolving treatment for straightforward cases of aesthetic dissatisfaction. This service addresses evenly distributed that simply doesn’t align with patient preferences. The procedure is completely safe and predictable.
Complex Migration Management – Advanced cases involving lip filler migration require specialised approach. Material may extend into facial tissues, creating irregular topography. Our filler dissolving procedure in these instances involves detailed mapping and staged enzyme administration.
Emergency Vascular Response – When filler blocks blood vessels, immediate intervention prevents tissue damage. We maintain emergency protocols for suspected vascular occlusion, with hyaluronidase available for urgent administration. This subspecialised service requires advanced diagnostic skills and rapid clinical decision-making.
Pre-Revision Clearance – Patients seeking different aesthetic outcomes benefit from complete dissolution before new filler placement. This approach ensures optimal results by eliminating variable effects from residual product. The process allows accurate assessment of natural lip anatomy.
Partial Selective Removal – Not all cases require complete dissolution. Sometimes strategic reduction in specific areas achieves desired correction while preserving satisfactory results in other regions. This nuanced approach demands precise enzyme placement and conservative dosing.
Why Choose Us?
Our clinic’s expertise in filler removal stems from comprehensive anatomical training and extensive clinical experience. The team includes practitioners with advanced certifications in facial aesthetics who regularly participate in continuing education on dissolving techniques.
We exclusively use pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronidase preparations with documented safety profiles. Product selection considers individual patient factors and filler composition. Our stock includes multiple enzyme formulations to address varying clinical scenarios.
Documentation protocols ensure thorough record-keeping throughout the dissolving process. Pre-treatment photography, procedural details, and follow-up imaging create comprehensive case archives. This systematic approach supports optimal outcomes and facilitates clinical review.
The practice operates within strict safety frameworks established by regulatory bodies governing aesthetic medicine in the United Kingdom. Infection control, emergency preparedness, and professional indemnity coverage meet industry standards. Located on Harley Street, our facility provides the infrastructure necessary for sophisticated aesthetic interventions.
Patient testimonials consistently highlight the professional environment and transparent communication throughout treatment. Former patients frequently reference the detailed consultation process and realistic expectation-setting regarding dissolution timelines and potential outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the enzyme work to break down filler?
Hyaluronidase catalyzes hydrolytic cleavage of hyaluronic acid polymers. The enzyme specifically targets β-1,4 glycosidic linkages between N-acetylglucosamine and glucuronic acid residues. This biochemical action reduces molecular weight, converting gel-phase filler into soluble fragments readily cleared through lymphatic drainage. The naturally occurring hyaluronic acid in surrounding tissues also undergoes temporary increased turnover, though physiological synthesis rapidly restores baseline concentrations.
Can all types of filler be dissolved?
Only fillers made of hyaluronic acid respond to hyaluronidase treatment. Calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres, poly-L-lactic acid particles, polymethylmethacrylate beads, and silicone oils remain biochemically inert to enzymatic breakdown. Before proceeding, we verify product composition through detailed history. If filler isn’t hyaluronic acid-based, alternative removal strategies—including surgical excision in select cases—may be considered.
How quickly does dissolution occur?
Initial enzymatic activity commences within minutes of injection, though visible changes typically emerge over 24-72 hours. Most patients observe significant volume reduction within a few days. Complete resolution of large amounts of filler may require up to two weeks, particularly with heavily cross-linked formulations. Secondary treatments, if needed, are scheduled after assessing initial response, usually at the one-week mark.
What are risks associated with dissolving treatment?
Allergic reaction to hyaluronidase occurs in approximately 0.1-0.5% of cases, manifesting as urticaria, angioedema, or, extremely rarely, anaphylaxis. Bruise formation is common due to injection trauma and increased tissue permeability. Temporary asymmetry may develop if dissolution proceeds at different rates bilaterally. Overcorrection—removal of naturally occurring hyaluronic acid—can cause temporary tissue deflation that resolves as endogenous synthesis restores normal levels, typically within 2-4 weeks.
Will my lips return to their original appearance?
The dissolving lip filler procedure removes injected product but doesn’t necessarily restore pre-treatment anatomy. Tissue stretching from previous lip augmentation may leave residual laxity. Repeated filler cycles can alter collagen architecture. Most patients regain approximation of their natural lip shape, though subtle differences sometimes persist. Those who received years prior may notice age-related changes now visible without volumising effect of previous treatments.
How much does it cost to dissolve unwanted filler?
Pricing varies based on their quantity and distribution complexity. Simple cases involving limited product typically cost £200-£280. Extensive treatments addressing bilateral migration or multiple aesthetic units range £350-£650. Emergency vascular protocols, requiring immediate practitioner availability and potential hospital coordination, command premium pricing around £600-£800. Consultation establishes precise costs after clinical assessment.
Can I get new filler immediately after dissolving?
Generally, we recommend waiting 2-4 weeks post-dissolution before new filler placement. This interval allows complete enzymatic clearance, resolution of treatment-related oedema, and accurate assessment of baseline anatomy. Immediate re-treatment risks inaccurate product placement due to tissue inflammation and altered landmarks. Some patients ultimately decide against further lip enhancement after experiencing their natural anatomy again.
How do I know if dissolving is the best option?
Consider dissolving your existing filler if you experience aesthetic dissatisfaction, visible irregularities, migration beyond the lip line, vascular compromise signs (blanching, severe pain, skin discolouration), or simply desire to return to your pre-treatment appearance. Consultation involves detailed evaluation of your specific situation, discussion of realistic outcomes, and consideration of alternative approaches. The decision ultimately reflects your goals balanced against clinical findings and practitioner recommendations.