Hyalase

Hyalase (hyaluronidase) is an injectable enzyme used to dissolve hyaluronic-acid dermal filler. It is used to correct filler that is over-filled, lumpy, uneven or migrated, to address an unnatural result, to remove old filler before re-treatment, and — by experienced clinicians — to help manage filler complications.

No. Hyalase is not a skin booster and does not add volume or improve skin quality. It is a prescription-only enzyme used specifically to break down hyaluronic-acid filler. If you are interested in improving skin quality, treatments such as Profhilo® or polynucleotides are designed for that instead.

Hyalase contains hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid. Because most modern dermal fillers are hyaluronic-acid based, injecting hyaluronidase into the area causes the filler to break down so the body can absorb it, reversing or reducing its effect.

Hyalase only dissolves hyaluronic-acid (HA) fillers, which are the most common type. It does not break down non-HA or permanent fillers such as those based on other materials. At consultation Dr Nina will establish what type of filler you have, where this is known, and advise accordingly.

Common reasons include filler that looks over-filled or “overdone”, lumps or unevenness, product that has migrated from where it was placed, an unnatural or unbalanced appearance, or wanting to start again before having an area redone. Hyaluronidase is also used to manage rarer filler complications.

Yes. A patch test is required before treatment to check for sensitivity to hyaluronidase, because an allergic reaction is possible. This is part of safe practice, and treatment is only carried out after a full consultation and an acceptable patch test.

Results can often be seen within 24–48 hours, although it may take a few days for the full effect to be clear as the filler breaks down and any swelling settles. Sometimes more than one session is needed depending on the amount and type of filler.

Most patients experience some discomfort during the injection, but a numbing cream is usually applied beforehand to reduce this. Any tenderness afterwards is generally mild and short-lived. Your practitioner will explain exactly what to expect.

Swelling, bruising or redness may occur and generally subside within a few days. Allergic reaction to hyaluronidase is possible, which is why a patch test is required. Hyalase can also temporarily break down some of your own natural hyaluronic acid in the area, so it is only carried out after a full consultation.

Hyalase can break down your skin’s own naturally occurring hyaluronic acid in the treated area as well as the filler. This is usually temporary and the area is expected to recover within a few days. This is one of the reasons a full consultation and careful technique matter.

This depends on the amount and type of filler present and how it responds. Some areas resolve in a single session, while others — or larger amounts of filler — may need more than one treatment. Dr Nina will give you a realistic expectation at consultation.

Yes, but not immediately. It is best to allow the area to settle and fully recover — usually a couple of weeks — before any new filler is placed, so the result can be assessed accurately. Dr Nina will advise on sensible timing for re-treatment of areas such as the lips or cheeks.

Hyaluronidase is a well-established tool in aesthetic medicine when used by a trained clinician after proper assessment and a patch test. As with any injectable, possible side effects and the risk of allergic reaction are discussed in full at consultation, and Dr Nina will only proceed where she believes it is appropriate for you.

If you are worried about a possible filler complication — for example unusual pain, blanching or changes in the skin after filler — seek prompt advice from a qualified medical practitioner. Hyaluronidase is used by experienced clinicians to manage certain urgent filler complications, and timely assessment is important.

Hyalase at Facial Sculpting starts from £520 per session, following a consultation and patch test. More than one session is occasionally needed depending on the filler. Your exact plan and price are confirmed at consultation.

Yes. A consultation is required to assess the area and your filler history, review your medical history, arrange the patch test, confirm whether Hyalase is appropriate, and agree your individual plan and price.