It’s true that all procedures come with risks and the same is true for dermal fillers. While widely used and often yielding positive results when administered by highly trained and qualified cosmetic Doctors and Nurses, dermal fillers can sometimes produce an undesired aesthetic or even harmful side effects.

Some issues that may warrant filler reversing can include:

• incorrect placement

• injection of too much filler

• asymmetry

• discolouration

• lump formation

• allergies or other adverse reactions

How does the reversal process work?

Most dermal fillers use a common active ingredient, Hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring bodily substance. Gel-like in nature, the Hyaluronic acid binds moisture and helps to keep skin hydrated, plump and youthful looking. It is also tasked with supporting the production of collagen and elasticity maintenance in addition to supporting skin softness and fluid joints.

When required, an experienced cosmetic injector can reverse dermal filler injections where they have produced an undesired or even harmful result by injecting a reversing agent called Hyaluronidase into the skin to dissolve the filler substance. The agent used in a naturally occurring bodily enzyme that works in the body to break down both the naturally and artificial versions of the substance that makes up most modern fillers. The reversing agent dissolves the filler, reversing its effect without harming the surface of the skin or associated dermal structures, however as with any procedure or medication, there is a risk of allergy or other such adverse reaction so it is important that your provider conducts a thorough consultation before beginning a filler correction procedure.

Note: Filler reversal is only possible for those fillers that use the common active ingredient. This will be discussed during your procedure, however if you are unhappy with the aesthetic of your ‘permanent’ filler, our experienced injectors may be able to improve the appearance of your results through the use of addition filler to balance and harmonise your features.

Why reverse dermal fillers?

As discussed, there may be many reasons that you may choose or require a dermal filler reversal. Whether you are experiencing unwanted side effects or you are simply unhappy with your results, a reversal procedure aims to reverse the outcome and revert your features back to their natural appearance.

The most common reasons for reversing dermal fillers include:

• Dissatisfaction – you are not happy with the result of your filler.

• Incorrect placement – the filler injected does not suit your face or does not look natural.

• Over-injection – too much has been injected, resulting in an ‘over done’ look.

• Asymmetrical results – asymmetrical placement that disturbs your natural contour, creating an unbalanced or irregular appearance.

• Lumps – though rare, dermal fillers can lead to the formation of bumps or lumps.

• Discolouration, known as Tyndall’s effect – if the filler has been injected too superficially into the skin, light to dark blue discolouration may appear (most commonly around the eye area).

• Infection or granuloma – the filler may cause a harmful bodily reaction; in which case the filler must be dissolved to prevent the infection from spreading.

• Emergency arterial occlusion – while this is rare, a filler that has been injected too close to an artery may cause a blockage, resulting in blanched, white or mottled skin, indicating a lack of blood supply.

It is important to note that when done safely buy an experienced and qualified cosmetic injector, the above issues can be rare. However, it is essential that treatment is sought if any of the conditions or side effects are experienced.

To ensure that you are happy with your result, CQ Skin offers a complimentary follow up appointment approximately two weeks post for any procedure, however should you be unhappy with the result, please call the clinic to make an additional review appointment.

Should you experience any harmful side effects, be sure to contact 000 in the event of an emergency or the clinic to schedule an urgent appointment with Dr. Manu. Reversal procedures must be performed by a highly trained cosmetic doctor or nurse with a sound knowledge of the facial anatomy to achieve the safest and most accurate result.