# Dissolving *hyaluronic acid.*

> When a filler result is not right: how hyaluronidase works, when it is used, what happens afterwards, the risks – and why only a physician uses it.

- Source: https://www.vivaderm.de/guide-dissolving-filler-en.html
- Language: en
- Publisher: VIVA DERM, Privatpraxis für ästhetische Medizin, Rosastraße 6a, 45130 Essen, Germany, +49 1520 8367711
- Responsible physician: Katayoun Mostaghimi (Fachärztin für Allgemeinmedizin)
- Updated: 2026-10-05

One reason hyaluronic acid is so widely used as a filler: if necessary, it can be dissolved again. How that works and what you should know.

## How dissolving works.

**Hyaluronidase is an enzyme** that splits hyaluronic acid into small fragments the body breaks down quickly. A small amount is injected directly into the area where the material lies. The effect starts within minutes to hours; the final picture shows after one to two days.

**When it is used:** for over-correction or asymmetry, for nodules or hardening, for material that has migrated, and – as an emergency measure – when a vascular occlusion is suspected. In the latter case every hour counts, which is why hyaluronidase belongs in every practice that injects fillers.

**What it cannot do:** hyaluronidase only dissolves hyaluronic acid. Other fillers (such as calcium hydroxylapatite or polylactic acid) and fat transfer cannot be removed with it. The body's own hyaluronic acid in the tissue is temporarily broken down as well – the area can briefly look a little 'emptier' than before the filler treatment. This usually evens out within a few weeks.

**Process:** examination, consultation, with some products an allergy test, then injection in small steps. Often not everything is dissolved at once but in stages, to avoid removing too much. A new filler treatment is usually possible after two to four weeks.

**Risks:** swelling, redness, bruising; rarely allergic reactions up to anaphylaxis – which is why it is only used by a physician with emergency equipment. Particular caution applies with a known bee or wasp venom allergy.

## The essentials.

- **Effect:** minutes to hours
- **Assessment:** after 1–2 days
- **Dissolves:** hyaluronic acid only
- **New filler:** usually after 2–4 weeks

## Important note.

This text is general information. It replaces neither a medical examination nor the consultation required before any treatment under German law (§ 630e BGB). Whether and which treatment is suitable for you can only be said after examination and consultation. No treatment results are promised.

## Frequently asked questions.

**Does dissolving hurt?**

Similar to a filler injection; the enzyme can sting briefly. Anaesthetic cream is possible.

**Is everything removed completely?**

That can be controlled. Small doses are often used, with a check after one to two days to see whether a second session is needed.

**Can I have filler from another practice dissolved?**

Yes, after examination. It helps to know which product was injected, when and where.

**What does it cost?**

Invoicing follows the GOÄ and depends on the effort involved; the amount is stated in the consultation.

## Related.

- [Hyaluronic acid](https://www.vivaderm.de/hyaluronsaeure-en.html) – Overview and risks
- [Lips](https://www.vivaderm.de/lips-en.html) – The most common area
- [Botox or filler?](https://www.vivaderm.de/guide-botox-or-filler-en.html) – The difference

## Sources

- [NHS: Dermal fillers – patient information](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures/dermal-fillers/)
- [MPDG – German medical devices act (fillers are medical devices)](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/mpdg/)
- [BfArM – Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices](https://www.bfarm.de/)
- [DGPRÄC – German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons](https://www.dgpraec.de/)
- [NHS: non-surgical cosmetic procedures](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures/)
- [Medical Association North Rhine – patient information](https://www.aekno.de/patienten)
- [§ 630e BGB – duty to inform before treatment (German Civil Code)](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/bgb/__630e.html)

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This page is general information and does not replace medical consultation and informed consent (§ 630e BGB). No guarantee of results. Prices are guide prices per GOÄ. Quoting with attribution (VIVA DERM, Essen) is expressly permitted.