When to dissolve under-eye filler

Because under-eye filler can cause persistent problems, knowing that it can be dissolved, and when dissolving is the right move, relieves a common worry and points to the solution for unhappy results.

Hyaluronic acid under-eye filler can be broken down with an injection of hyaluronidase, an enzyme that dissolves it within a day or two. Dissolving is appropriate when the under-eye looks puffy or swollen from filler attracting fluid, when there is a bluish Tyndall discoloration, when lumps or unevenness persist after initial swelling settles, when filler has migrated, or simply when a patient is unhappy with the result. Because the under-eye holds product for a long time and problems there linger, dissolving is often the cleanest path to resetting, after which the area can be left alone or re-treated more conservatively if appropriate.

The reassuring message for anyone with puffy, discolored, or lumpy under-eyes from filler is that it is very likely correctable by dissolving, the era of being stuck with a bad under-eye result for years has largely passed thanks to hyaluronidase. An experienced injector can dissolve fully or selectively. This reversibility is also a reason to use hyaluronic acid rather than permanent fillers under the eyes. For patients unhappy with under-eye filler, the practical step is to consult an experienced injector about dissolving, which usually resolves the problem, rather than waiting years for stubborn filler to fade. Knowing this option exists takes much of the fear out of the area's risks.

Related reading: Surgery vs. filler for the under-eye: choosing right.