What exactly is hyaluronidase?

Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that occurs naturally in the human body. It plays a role in breaking down hyaluronic acid in the tissue. In medicine and cosmetics, a concentrated, purified version of this enzyme is used to break down previously placed hyaluronic acid fillers in a targeted way.

The substance has been used in medicine for decades, among other things to help medication spread through the tissue more quickly. In aesthetic medicine, hyaluronidase is mainly used as a 'solvent' for unwanted or incorrectly placed fillers.

When is hyaluronidase used?

There are various situations in which the use of hyaluronidase may be desirable or necessary. These include both aesthetic and medical reasons.

The most common applications are:

Dissatisfaction with the result of a filler
Overfilling or an unnatural effect
Asymmetry after a filler treatment
Build-up of filler after repeated treatments
Correction of a bump or lump under the skin
Treatment of complications such as blue discolouration or pressure on a blood vessel (early complication)
In a 'vascular complication', in which a filler accidentally blocks a blood vessel (emergency situation)

In all these cases, hyaluronidase offers the option of quickly dissolving the hyaluronic acid in the treated area, so that symptoms reduce or disappear completely.

How does a treatment with hyaluronidase work?

A hyaluronidase treatment always starts with a consultation. The doctor assesses the situation and discusses why the enzyme might be needed. The exact location of the previously placed filler is also checked, as well as whether it is a product based on hyaluronic acid. This is because hyaluronidase works only on hyaluronic acid fillers, and not on other types of filler.

If the decision is made to treat, the following steps are taken:

The area to be treated is cleaned.
A small amount of hyaluronidase is injected into or around the area where the filler is located.
The enzyme starts working almost immediately and breaks down the hyaluronic acid.
Most of the effect is visible within 24 to 48 hours.

Sometimes several sessions are needed, for example with larger amounts of filler or when the filler has been placed deep in the tissue.

How quickly does hyaluronidase work?

Hyaluronidase works quickly: the effect is often noticeable within a few hours to a day. With small amounts of filler or superficial placement, the result can even be visible within one to two hours. In the days that follow, the effect increases slightly, as the body continues to clear away the broken-down filler and the enzyme.

For aesthetic corrections, a follow-up appointment is often scheduled after a few days to assess whether additional treatment is needed.

Is the treatment safe?

Yes, hyaluronidase is used widely and safely around the world, provided it is administered by an experienced doctor. The treatment is accessible, quick and effective. It is important, however, that the doctor knows the anatomy of the face and knows exactly where the enzyme should be placed.

At Kliniek het Bolwerk, hyaluronidase is only used by medically trained doctors with extensive experience in both treating and correcting fillers.

Can the body's own hyaluronic acid also be affected?

This is a frequently asked question. In principle, hyaluronidase does not work selectively: it can also break down a small amount of your natural hyaluronic acid. Fortunately, the body restores this quickly, because we constantly produce new hyaluronic acid.

The doctor also uses as little enzyme as possible, aimed at dissolving the unwanted filler, so that your own skin structure is preserved. Within a few days to weeks, the natural balance in the skin is restored.

Does the treatment hurt?

The hyaluronidase injection feels similar to a filler treatment. Some people experience a slight tingling or burning sensation right after the injection. This usually wears off within a few minutes.

A numbing cream or the use of a finer cannula can make the treatment more comfortable. Afterwards, the treated area may be somewhat tender or swollen, but this often disappears within one to two days.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects of hyaluronidase are rare, but they can occur. The most commonly reported reactions are:

Temporary redness or swelling at the injection site
A small bruise caused by minor bleeding under the skin
Mild itching or irritation
Very rarely: an allergic reaction to the enzyme

Before the treatment, we always discuss whether you have previously had a reaction to hyaluronidase. If you have an increased risk, the doctor may choose to give a small test dose in a different spot first.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

Hyaluronidase is suitable for anyone who:

Wants to have a filler dissolved because of an unwanted result
Has asymmetry or build-up after previous treatments
Wants a safe, medical correction of existing fillers
Is dealing with a complication or side effect

During the consultation, the doctor always discusses whether this treatment is needed or whether alternatives are possible. In some cases it is also possible to treat again later, in a better way, after the filler has been dissolved.

What does a hyaluronidase treatment cost?

The cost of a hyaluronidase treatment depends on the amount needed and the complexity of the treatment. At Kliniek het Bolwerk this is discussed clearly in advance. You will also receive advice about any follow-up treatments if you are considering fillers again afterwards.

Conclusion

Hyaluronidase is an effective and safe enzyme used to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers in a targeted way. It offers a reliable solution for complications, dissatisfaction or overcorrection. The treatment is quick, works almost immediately and is fully reversible in many cases.

Whether you want a filler corrected or removed, or want to make room for a better new treatment: hyaluronidase gives you the option to take back control of your appearance. At Kliniek het Bolwerk we make sure this is done in a safe, careful and professional way, with attention to your wishes and your natural look.

Want to know more? Read more about fillers or lip fillers at Kliniek het Bolwerk.