Fillers

Filler dissolving in Rotterdam

Filler dissolving is a medical treatment in which the doctor breaks down hyaluronic acid filler with the enzyme hyaluronidase, so that unwanted, migrated or uneven filler disappears within a few days. At Zalat Clinics in Rotterdam, our BIG-registered doctor assesses and treats this personally, including filler placed at another clinic. We understand this can be a sensitive subject and take our time with it.

Treatment time
20–30 minutes
Results visible
usually within 24–72 hours
Results last
permanent for the dissolved filler; a second session is sometimes needed
Downtime
swelling or redness for 1–3 days
Price
from €150

How does filler dissolving work?

Most fillers are made of hyaluronic acid. This can be broken down with hyaluronidase, an enzyme that also occurs naturally in the body. Hyaluronidase is a prescription-only medicine and may only be administered by a doctor. It is often referred to as ‘hyalase’, after the name of one of the better-known preparations. The doctor injects it into the area where the filler sits, after which the enzyme breaks down the gel over one to three days.

The treatment only works on hyaluronic acid fillers. Fillers made of other materials, such as calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) or permanent fillers, cannot be dissolved this way. If you do not know which filler you received, please bring any details of the previous treatment to the consultation.

Filler dissolving is available from €150 per session. At the free consultation the doctor first assesses whether dissolving is necessary and worthwhile, and we agree the price beforehand.

When should you consider filler dissolving?

Dissolving filler can make sense if you are unhappy with a previous treatment, including one done at another clinic. Not during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless medically necessary, and not with a known allergy to hyaluronidase or bee stings; always mention any allergies beforehand. Common reasons:

  • filler that has migrated, for example above the lip border (a ‘filler moustache’)
  • lumps or an uneven result
  • a result that looks overfilled or unnatural
  • a bluish tint under the eyes after tear trough filler
  • a wish to start afresh before a new shape is built
  • a (suspected) vascular complication, where prompt action is needed

How does the treatment work?

  1. 01

    Free consultation

    The doctor examines the area, asks about the previous treatment and discusses whether dissolving is needed or whether a small correction would be enough. Allergies are also reviewed. You receive a fixed price.

  2. 02

    Preparation

    If appropriate, the doctor first performs a small skin test to rule out hypersensitivity. The skin is cleansed and disinfected.

  3. 03

    Treatment

    The doctor injects the medicine precisely where the filler sits. This takes about 20–30 minutes. Afterwards you stay at the clinic briefly for observation.

  4. 04

    Free check-up after two weeks

    After two weeks we review the result. If some filler remains, a second session can be planned. New filler can be placed after about two weeks at the earliest.

Aftercare and possible side effects

After treatment the area may be swollen, red or tender for a few days. It can sometimes look temporarily a little hollow, because the enzyme also breaks down some of the body's own hyaluronic acid; this usually recovers within a few weeks. If you have questions, you can reach the doctor via WhatsApp.

An allergic reaction is rare but possible, which is why you are observed briefly after treatment. Contact us immediately if you notice increasing swelling, itching, a rash or shortness of breath.

  • for the first 24 hours: no exercise, sauna or alcohol
  • do not massage the area on the first day unless the doctor advises it
  • no new filler in the same area for at least two weeks
  • judge the result after two weeks, once the swelling has gone

Medically reviewed by Dr. Pravesh Gadjradj, BIG 39924163701.

Frequently asked questions

Can you dissolve filler that was placed at another clinic?

Yes. We also dissolve filler placed elsewhere, provided it is hyaluronic acid. If possible, bring details of the previous treatment, such as the product name.

How quickly does the filler disappear?

You usually see the effect within 24 to 72 hours. With larger amounts or firmer fillers a second session may be needed, usually after about two weeks.

Does it also dissolve my own hyaluronic acid?

The enzyme temporarily breaks down some of the natural hyaluronic acid in the skin as well. The body replenishes this itself, usually within a few weeks. That is why the doctor doses carefully.

Can every filler be dissolved?

No, only hyaluronic acid fillers. Fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra or permanent fillers do not respond to this treatment. In that case the doctor will discuss other options with you.

What is hyalase?

‘Hyalase’ is the commonly used name for hyaluronidase, the enzyme used to break down hyaluronic acid filler. It is a prescription-only medicine that is only given by a doctor, after assessment at a consultation. The doctor decides which preparation and dose are appropriate.

When can I have filler again?

After about two weeks at the earliest, once the swelling has gone and the area has settled. At the free check-up the doctor will assess when a new treatment would be sensible.

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Ready for the first step?

Book a no-obligation consultation. We take time for your questions, and you know exactly what to expect before anything is done.