Ultrasound-guided dermal filler dissolving
Key Takeaways
- More precise dissolving
- Fewer sessions required, often only a single session.
- Less downtime after the procedure
- Less breakdown of natural hyaluronic acid (HA) in the skin
The surge in popularity and accessibility of dermal filler treatments has also led to a rise in the demand for dermal filler dissolving. The most commonly used dermal fillers are hyaluronic acid (HA) based gel like fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that provides hydration and moisture to the skin. HA fillers are a synthetic version, and are used to create shape, volume and hydration depending on the ‘thickness’ or viscosity of the dermal filler. The clinician injects an enzyme called hyaluronidase (Hyalase) to break down and dissolve the unwanted dermal filler when it needs to be removed.
At Shellharbour Skin, we use ultrasound to scan the underlying tissues and identify where the dermal filler is precisely, before dissolving. This means we use less dissolving agent, placed more accurately.
The reasons for dissolving dermal fillers are usually because of an unwanted aesthetic outcome, the filler has moved or ‘migrated’ or the filler has entered a blood vessel and is blocking the flow of blood to the surrounding skin tissue (vascular occlusion).
Table: Ultrasound-guided dermal filler dissolving- at a glance
Indications: unwanted or migrated dermal filler, vacular occlusion
Treatment time: 30mins
Number of treatments recommended: 1
Duration of results: permanently removes synthetic hyaluronic acid
Downtime and anesthesia: possible bruising, local anesthetic
Cost: $
Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect?
On the day of your appointment, the Doctor or Nurse will scan the area with a handheld ultrasound machine. Once the doctor or nurse identifies and marks out the area for dissolving, they will show you the area and ask for your confirmation that this is where you agree to receive treatment. Before treatment, the doctor or nurse will take photos of the area and store them securely in your file. The medical team will then prepare Hyalase and inject it into the zones outlined for treatment. Results are usually visible immediately after your treatment, but bruising and swelling will begin shortly after the procedure and will take 2-4 weeks to fully settle.
What is the cost of a dermal filler dissolving?
The cost of ultrasound guided dermal filler dissolving varies from patient to patient and depends on the amount used and the area being treated to achieve the desired results. We always recommend that our patients have an initial consultation in our clinic to determine the cost of their treatment. The Doctor can assess your problem areas and develop a customised treatment plan based on your goals, health, and concerns. As a guide, prices start at $245.
What are the results and aftercare for an ultrasound guided dermal filler?
Dissolving of dermal fillers is permanent and irreversible. Sometimes, multiple sessions of dissolving are required, as well as post dissolving retreatment with dermal filler to correct the volume loss. During the consultation, we thoroughly discuss this and come to an agreement on a plan that outlines the estimated financial requirement. Unless there is a vascular occlusion, it is up to the patient to decide whether to leave the filler in place.
To ensure proper healing and best results, your doctor or nurse will provide you with a follow-up plan, which may include:
- Take pain relief as required
- Do not touch the site of insertion
- Give your skin a few makeup-free days after treatment.
- Do not exercise for a week after the treatment
- Do not use active skin care products for at least five days after treatment.
- Avoid skin treatments that may cause stress or stress on the skin, such as microdermabrasion, micro-needling, and facial massage.
- Stay away from extreme temperatures, such as saunas, hydrotherapy, ice baths, or hot yoga, until complete recovery.
- Avoid inverted positions and keep your head elevated for the first four hours after treatment.
Are there any risks or complications associated with ultrasound guided dermal filler dissolving?
Regardless of the cosmetic or medical treatment, you should know the associated risks and complications before deciding on any treatment. Dermal filler dissolving carries the following risks and complications:
- Allergic reaction
- Scarring
- Blisters
- Swelling
- Bruises
- Skin discolouration
- Itching
- Redness
Sounds great. Where do I start?
Before undergoing an ultrasound guided dermal filler dissolving treatment, you must register at our Shellharbour clinic for an initial consultation with our qualified clinical team. During your consultation, you will discuss your lifestyle and health, including medical history, allergies, and any medications or supplements you may be taking. It is important to mention any allergic reactions to drugs or skin care products you may have experienced in the past and any other recent beauty treatments you’ve had. These factors affect how your body responds and how the treatment recovers.
If you have any concerns, a consultation is when you ask questions about your treatment. Your clinician will ask about your current problems and reasons for wanting a cosmetic procedure and evaluate the treatment area. You should discuss what you hope to achieve with the treatment and your aesthetic goals. All the information you provide during the consultation is essential to developing a customised treatment plan that considers your health, concerns and expected outcomes to achieve the best possible result.
If you have a question, get in touch and one of our staff will be in touch shortly.
