Lip fillers are a growing trend, and certainly one of the most popular treatment I perform here in the clinic. They have been around for some time now, promising fuller and more youthful lips and are becoming more and more accessible. What happens when things go wrong, or you simply want to go back to your natural look? That’s where lip filler dissolving comes in, a service that we offer here at our Lichfield Clinic. Obviously all types of filler can be dissolved, but in my experience, the type of filler that most often needs to be dissolved is lip filler.
Why Might Someone Want Lip Filler Dissolving?
There are several reasons why someone might consider lip filler dissolving. While some opt for it as an elective choice, others may require emergency dissolving. Let’s delve into these reasons and the essential aspects of the process.
Emergency Dissolving: Vascular Occlusion
Emergency dissolving is a critical aspect of lip filler treatment, and frighteningly one that not all practitioners are fully competent in. One of the most severe complications that can arise from lip fillers, while very rare, particularly when the fillers are done properly, is vascular occlusion, where the filler inadvertently enters, or is placed where it puts pressure on a blood vessel. This can obstruct blood flow and potentially lead to dangerous tissue damage or ‘necrosis’. This type of complication can happen even to the most experienced injector, as not everyone has textbook anatomy! However, proper placement of filler, appropriate practice and a full knowledge of how and when to treat complications are incredibly important in reducing risk.
In such cases, an enzymatic drug called hyaluronidase is used for emergency dissolving. Hyaluronidase, often known is Hyalase, breaks down the hyaluronic acid filler, allowing for a quick reversal of the blockage by breaking down the filler, allowing the body to clear it away. Time is of the essence in these situations, and having access to a medically trained practitioner who can administer hyaluronidase promptly can be a lifesaver – or more likely, a vision saver, as a vascular occlusion in the face can potentially lead to blindness.
Fun fact – the head of a human sperm contains hyaluronidase, which is used to break through the hyaluronic acid covered capsule of the egg, allowing the egg to be fertilised – so this enzyme is crucial to the start of life as well as dissolving dodgy lip fillers!
Elective Lip Filler Dissolving
Elective lip filler dissolving is more common and is usually chosen for personal aesthetic reasons. Some people may decide that they no longer want fuller lips, or they may wish to start afresh with a different type of filler. More often however, I will be approached to dissolve another practitioners work, because they have done a bad job and the practitioner either does not want to get involved, or in some cases will block the client so they don’t have to deal with it, or most commonly the client is uncomfortable with going back to the same practitioner that caused them problems.
Filler dissolving is a fairly straightforward procedure if done properly, however, it is not without its considerations.
Before undergoing elective dissolving, a patch test is essential, as hyaluronidase has the potential to trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Special care should be taken if a person has a high risk of allergies, particularly if they are allergic to substances like bee stings.
The Challenges of Dissolving Other People’s Work
Dissolving another practitioner’s work can be a tricky task. When you decide to have your lips dissolved, it’s important to go to someone reputable and medically trained. Preferably, choose a practitioner who is a prescriber and can handle all aspects of treatment, including prescribing the necessary drugs like hyaluronidase.
The difficulty with treating someone else’s work lies in not knowing exactly what has been done and the specific product that was used. Different fillers have different properties, and some are more challenging to dissolve than others. Therefore, the results can vary, and it may take multiple sessions to achieve the desired outcome. I always ask my client to see if they can speak to their previous practitioner to find out what has been used, as it will affect how I treat them.
How Long Should Lips Settle Before Refilling?
After lip filler dissolving, it’s crucial to let your lips heal and settle before considering any refilling. Some individuals rush into refilling immediately, which is not recommended. Others may wait for two weeks, but we recommend waiting for at least four weeks. This extended period allows for full healing and gives your lips a chance to return to their natural state.
We understand that people can be very conscious of their appearance, even if they had poorly done lips before. However, patience is key to achieving the best results and avoiding complications.
The Importance of Full Consultation
Before undergoing any lip filler dissolving treatment, a full consultation is vital. During this consultation, we discuss likely outcomes, risks, and side effects, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the process. We also provide support and advice for aftercare and what to look out for during the recovery period.
Taking Responsibility for Lip Filler Dissolving
As a registered nurse and independent nurse prescriber, I am equipped to handle the full pathway of lip filler treatment. This includes prescribing, injecting, and dissolving, whether it’s an emergency or elective procedure. However, it’s crucial to note that I take no responsibility for the work of previous practitioners. If you’re left with a dissolving job due to poorly done work, it’s essential to seek support from the original injector first. I will only step in as a last resort.
If you’re considering lip filler dissolving, trust in a qualified and experienced practitioner who can provide you with the safest and most effective treatment. At Sally Wagstaff Aesthetics in Lichfield city centre, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you achieve the results you desire. Contact us to find out more and schedule a consultation.
