Does HA filler actually dissolve completely on its own?

Question

I was told if I wait it out 12-18 months, my HA nasolabial filler would dissolve on its own. Is this true? In order for filler to dissolve naturally, your body must produce a regular source of hyaluronidase to the injection site over a prolonged period of time. But the body does not regularly produce hyaluronidase because this would cause your skin and other organs to break down.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

In our experience, we have seen hyaluronic acid gel fillers last for many years. Additionally, we have seen persistent fullness in areas treated with the dissolving enzyme. I believe that everybody's body forms a bit of scar tissue around temporary fillers, and since this is variable, sometimes temporary fillers can lead to permanent filling. I hope this is helpful. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, commonly used for nasolabial folds, are designed to be temporary and do typically dissolve on their own over time. The body gradually metabolizes these fillers, usually within 12-18 months, depending on factors such as the specific product used, the area treated, and individual metabolic rates.

While it's true that the body does not constantly produce hyaluronidase at the injection site, it doesn't need to for the filler to dissolve. The natural degradation process occurs as your body slowly breaks down the HA through normal metabolic pathways, not solely reliant on hyaluronidase.

If you have concerns about the persistence of the filler or wish for it to dissolve more quickly, a qualified practitioner can administer an injection of hyaluronidase to accelerate the process.

I hope this helps clarify your concern.

Best regards,

Rajaie Hazboun, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for posting your question here!It used t be believed that HA fillers dissolve completely with time , each filler has it's own life span depending on a lot of factors, but recent MRI studies have demonstrated that filler lasts longer than advertised and mostly diffuses thus you lose the effect it was initially placed for but will still be present.probably more long term studies with higher number of patients should be done to better answer the question.I hope this helps, best of luck!

Glenn Murray, MBBS · Answer

Hello,

Yes, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers generally dissolve completely on their own over time. These fillers are designed to be temporary, and the body naturally metabolizes them through enzymatic processes. The enzyme hyaluronidase, present in the body, gradually breaks down the hyaluronic acid, leading to the filler dissipating over a period of 6 to 18 months, depending on factors such as the specific product used, the area treated, and individual metabolic rates.
- Different HA fillers have varying lifespans. For instance, fillers like Juvederm Ultra tend to break down faster, while others like Voluma last longer.
- Individuals with faster metabolisms may experience quicker breakdown of the filler.
- Areas with higher movement or blood flow, such as the lips, may see faster dissolution compared to more static areas like the cheeks.

The natural breakdown of HA fillers involves the body's metabolic pathways, not solely relying on hyaluronidase. As the filler degrades, it is absorbed and eliminated through the lymphatic system.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Fillers will gradually be metabolized by the body over time.  The pace at which this occurs will differ from patient to patient.  It is also influenced by selected filler.  What patients do notice is that even though some filler may still be present, the desired effect of the filler is no longer seen or has been reduced.  This is when patients typically return for a treatment.

Does HA filler actually dissolve completely on its own?

Answers (5)

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