Lip Filler - Dent in lip, even after dissolving. How can I fix this? (Photos)

Question

I've been having my lips done for around 10 years now (on average once or twice a year) and dissolved several times due to migration building up. A dent had formed in my lip filler so I've recently had the majority of my lips dissolved. The dent is slightly less visible now but it's still there and bothers me. Is this stretched skin? Is there anything that can be done to get rid of it?

Anna Petropoulos, MD, FRCS · Answer

It sounds like the dent in your lips could be due to skin stretching from repeated filler use, uneven collagen remodeling after multiple dissolving sessions, or residual fibrosis (scar tissue) from filler breakdown. Since you’ve had filler for about a decade and have dissolved multiple times, it’s possible that your lip tissue has been affected structurally.

To improve the appearance:

Time & Hydration – Your lips may need time to naturally regain elasticity and collagen production. Keeping them hydrated with a good lip balm and topical treatments like hyaluronic acid can help.

Microneedling or RF Microneedling – These treatments can stimulate collagen and elastin, potentially helping the skin bounce back and improving texture.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or Exosomes – Injecting PRP or exosomes into the lips could help regenerate tissue, improve elasticity, and encourage natural healing.

Laser Treatments – Fractional lasers (like CO2 or Erbium) can resurface the skin and stimulate collagen production, which may help even out the texture.

A Different Filler Approach – If you’re considering getting filler again, a strategic placement using softer, more natural products (like low-G Prime HA fillers or even a microdroplet technique-SkinVive comes to mind) may help smooth things out instead of adding bulk.

Massage or Manual Therapy – If any residual scar tissue is contributing to the dent, gentle massage (or professional lymphatic drainage) could help break it up over time.

Best of luck! 
Genie Alexander, RN BSN for Anna Petropoulos, MD FRCS at Center for Classic Beauty Boston & Danvers, MA.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The dent in your lip can be surgically resected.  This can be done under local anesthesia and used to invert the edges and fill out the concavity.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Injection of fillers into same site for multiple times (over 10 years) would create scars as a reaction to filling material, injection injury, inflammation. In a long run these scars are going to create lumps and other irregularities of the lips which may be very difficult to treat. In person consultation with an experienced ces board certified plastic surgeon would be your best starting point. Good luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns. It sounds like you've been dealing with some persistent issues related to lip filler migration and the subsequent dissolving process. The dent you’re describing could potentially be due to a few factors, such as stretched skin, tissue atrophy, or residual filler material.

Here are some options you might consider to address this issue:

Consultation with a Specialist: It's important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic procedures. They can assess the area and determine the underlying cause of the dent.

Skin Treatments: If the dent is due to stretched skin, treatments like laser therapy or microneedling might help improve skin texture and stimulate collagen production.

Refill with a Different Technique: Sometimes, carefully refilling the area with a different injection technique or a different type of filler can help smooth out irregularities.

Scar Treatment: If there's any fibrosis or scarring, treatments such as steroid injections or subcision might be beneficial.

Time: In some cases, allowing the skin some time to recover after dissolving the filler can lead to gradual improvement in appearance.

I recommend scheduling a consultation with a qualified professional who can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your needs.

Lip Filler - Dent in lip, even after dissolving. How can I fix this? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Addressing Persistent Lip Dents Post-Filler Dissolution: Options and Recommendations

Answer: Addressing Persistent Lip Dents Post-Filler Dissolution: Options and Recommendations

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Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Lip Filler - Dent in lip, even after dissolving. How can I fix this? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Addressing Persistent Lip Dents Post-Filler Dissolution: Options and Recommendations

Answer: Addressing Persistent Lip Dents Post-Filler Dissolution: Options and Recommendations

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.