Help! Can dermal filler injections be reversed?

Yes, if the dermal filler is part of the hyaluronic acid filler family such as Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, Prevelle, Hylaform, etc.

Hyaluronidase is a product used to correct, or reverse, the effects of a hyaluronic acid dermal filler should it be necessary. Hyaluronidase is FDA approved and made up of enzymes that will rapidly break down and decompose hyaluronic acid. It is important to note that it does not correct or have any effect on semi-permanent or permanent fillers, which are generally not recommended.

In The News: Dermal Filler Warning

Serious warnings have been issued regarding complications and adverse reactions as a result of dermal filler injections containing synthetic forms of hyaluronic acid (HA). Hyaluronic fillers are the most popular form of injectable dermal fillers on the market, and to date the safest. These reports included Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane, Elevess, Revanesse, and Teosyal. The reported adverse reactions include pain, swelling, nodules, abscesses, pus/infections, skin discoloration, difficulty talking, swallowing or breathing. There was a disturbing report of gangrene and necrosis (death of tissue) of the lip after an injection of Restylane and another unsettling claim that reports a partial loss of vision after a treatment of Juvederm to the lower eyelid and cheek.

Allergan, the manufacturer of Juvederm, states that with its approval in 50 countries, and more than two million syringes distributed to doctors in North America since 2006, less than 0.27% of all treatments have resulted in adverse events. After reading all of the reports and responses from the companies in question we can offer one very solid piece of advice. Facial fillers, or any other injectables, should only be administered by doctors, or propertly trained medical specialists. Oh, yes, and one more thing . . . say no to botox and dermal filler home parties!

Dysport - The New Botox?

Dysport (Medicis) is the new alternative to Botox (Allergan). In fact, Dysport is made from the same botulinum toxin as Botox. FDA clearance was recently granted to Medicis, famous for their two great dermal fillers, Restylane and Perlane. Dysport is said to be "faster acting" with a greater "spread" giving a more natural appearance and requiring fewer injections. Dysport has the ability to last up to a few months longer than Botox since it contains less protein which is more difficult for the body to break down. Botox, on the other hand, is recommended for a smaller, more specific localized area.

The downside? A big one. A human one. As always it is terribly important to select the right professionals with the proper credentials. Since the injections go deeper and the botulinum has a paralytic effect, there is a critical need for precision to avoid the potential that the drug may spread to nearby muscles and cause unwanted side effects in neighboring areas. The professionals who administer these injections really need to know their stuff. Make no mistake . . . there is no room for error.

Dysport (Medicis) vs Botox (Allergan) is going to be an interesting boxing match to watch. It is aptly being described as," the biggest feud since the Hatfields and the McCoys." Well said.

Restylane, Botox, Sculptra, Radiesse, Juvederm

Right before your very eyes . . . compliments of YOU TUBE

Can dermal filler injections be reversed?

Great question. Hyaluronidase is a product that is used to correct, or reverse, the effects of a hyaluronic acid dermal filler, such as Restylane and Juvederm should it be necessary. Hyaluronidase is FDA approved and made up of enzymes that will rapidly break down and decompose hyaluronic acid. It is important to note that it does not correct or have any effect on semi-permanent or permanent fillers, which are generally not recommended.

Dermal Fillers - Restylane vs Juvederm

According to the experts, Restylane and Juvederm rank well with one another. Is one better than the other? No. The choice of which product to use is better left to the professionals and greatly depends on the task at hand. Both dermal fillers are hyaluronc acid products that effectively fill in facial lines and wrinkles.

Restylane (Medicis) is a gel-like product that is thicker than Juvederm (Allergan) and may treat deeper lines more efficiently. Restylane is used for creating a fuller face because of its ability to plump the skin. Once 'molded' it tends to stay in place and not travel into other areas.

Juvederm, on the other hand, is a more syrup-like substance and produces smoother lines without too much manipulation, and as a result, may be better around the lips and mouth area. Juvederm produces less bruising. Both last for just under a year and can correct most of the issues around an aging face.

Dermal Fillers

Injectable dermal fillers such as Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm are the fastest growing sector of cosmetic enhancement procedures. These 'low risk' fillers help plump up areas of the face that lose volume during the aging process offering immediate visual results. They work well in adding volume to the lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds, the corners of the mouth, lips, and smoothing out those nasty wrinkles. They are made from Hyaluronic Acid, a non-animal substance, which offers comfort from the threat of allergies, or the concerns of disease transmission from animal sourced products. No skin testing is required.

During the treatment, a very thin needle is placed into the skin underneath the targeted area. The filler is injected in a slow, steady movement as the needle is being withdrawn. A jelly-like substance (the filler) is left adding fullness to the specific area. Since there is increased control with this type of procedure, the sculpted end result will offer a predictable desired effect, . . . dramatic or subtle. The results will last longer than collagen injections and can last from three months to three years, depending on the product used.

Redness and swelling will be noted at the injection site lasting for two to three days, but nothing that will require downtime. Lips can take more time to recover. Cold packs may be used, but refrain from using ice. The skin may feel a little lumpy at first, but this will smooth out as the swelling reduces. Gentle massage can be helpful. Avoid using aspirin, Vitamin E and other medications prior to the treatment as they may cause bruising. Pump up the volume!