How Quick Can Hyaluronidase Get Rid Of Restylane In My Cheeks?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I would like a consultation for getting hyaluronidase injected to remove too much restylane that has been injected into my cheeks. It looks extremely unnatural as I am 35 and did not want to look fake. Please help and thank you!

A: You are correct in assuming the the proper treatment for too much of a hyaluronic acid-based filler, such as Restylane, is hyaluronidase injections. This enzyme solution catalyzes the hydrolysis of hyaluron which lowers its viscosity and makes it rapidly absorbable. The action of hyaluronidase is very quick and starts to work immediately, with most of the effect taking place within 24 to 48 hours.

The most difficult aspect of treated overdone fillers with hyaluronidase is judging the amount required to dissolve a certain amount of filler. There is no table or established doses in units for how to treat any facial area. It is quite easy to undertreat the injected area. Patients should, therefore, expect the possibility that a second treatment may be required if some filler still remains.

There is the possibility of hyaluronidase injection side effects, although they are quite uncommon. It would be an inflammatory reaction with redness and swelling and is more likely to occur in those people who are allergic to bee stings.

The reversibility of hyaluronic acid fillers with hyaluronidase is one of many reasons that such injectable filler compositions are the preferred choice for most patient’s aesthetic facial needs as a non-surgical treatment option.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana