Hyaluronidase
Written and reviewed by Dr Bernard Hayot, ophthalmologist, RPPS 10003926226.
Hyaluronidase
Hyaluronidase is a practical, effective antidote to hyaluronic acid injections that have not produced the desired result or have been poorly performed. For Dr Hayot, a specialist in the aesthetics of the eye area, hyaluronidase has one major advantage: it makes good the harmful consequences of hyaluronic acid injected into the dark circles, a procedure he strongly advises against. Even though some side effects of injections are unpredictable, these cases illustrate the need for an experienced practitioner with a complete command of injections and of their effects on the different areas of the face.
What is hyaluronidase?
Hyaluronidase is an enzyme naturally present in the body, with the ability to break down hyaluronic acid. In aesthetic medicine it is used to correct unsatisfactory results: over-correction, asymmetry or poor placement.
When is hyaluronidase indicated?
In most cases the results of hyaluronic acid injections are discreet and natural, and meet patients’ expectations. Some patients, however, may be dissatisfied, or the result may be objectively unattractive: bulging or nodules in the injected area, a swollen appearance, asymmetry. These undesirable effects may be linked to over-correction, in other words too much product injected, to poor placement, or to the use of a hyaluronic acid unsuited to the indication. Results also depend on how each individual reacts to the product. Finally, the injection of hyaluronic acid into the dark circles by certain aesthetic doctors can lead to a kind of puffiness, since the product is absorbed poorly or not at all in this area of the face, and the outcome can be very difficult to live with. To this is added a bluish discoloration caused by the Tyndall effect. Many patients, severely inconvenienced, consult Dr Hayot in search of a solution.
How does hyaluronidase work?
Hyaluronidase dissolves the hyaluronic acid present in the treated tissues by breaking down its molecular bonds. This rapidly removes the undesirable effects associated with hyaluronic acid injections, whether over-dosing, irregularities or patient dissatisfaction.
Are there any side effects to hyaluronidase?
Hyaluronidase is considered a safe treatment, and is very well tolerated by the body. Adverse reactions are exceptional. The symptoms of an allergic or inflammatory reaction may include redness, itching, swelling, a rash or difficulty breathing. In very rare cases, hyaluronidase may spread beyond the intended injection site and dissolve hyaluronic acid in neighbouring tissues.
How long does hyaluronidase last?
Hyaluronidase injections, whose doses are adjusted to each indication, are performed in the doctor’s office. Depending on the case, one or more sessions are needed to dissolve the hyaluronic acid, which is then gradually eliminated from the body. Hyaluronidase continues to act for 10 to 15 days after the session, and it is advisable to consult again to confirm that the hyaluronic acid has completely dissolved.
Is a hyaluronic acid injection possible after a hyaluronidase injection?
Hyaluronic acid injections can be repeated after hyaluronidase injections, but there must be a one-month interval between the two procedures.
How much does hyaluronidase cost?
The cost of hyaluronidase injections depends on the quantity of product required and on the number of injections. Dr Hayot will provide you with a full quotation at your consultation.
FAQ
How does hyaluronidase dissolve hyaluronic acid?
Naturally present in the body, hyaluronidase dissolves hyaluronic acid, which explains why the results of hyaluronic acid injections are temporary. Injected directly into the tissue, hyaluronidase accelerates that dissolution by breaking down the molecular bonds.Does the hyaluronic acid disappear completely?
After a hyaluronidase injection, all traces of hyaluronic acid present in the treated area are completely eliminated.How long does hyaluronidase take to work?
The results of a hyaluronidase injection are visible within 24 hours of the procedure, but it takes 7 days to see the final result.How long does the effect of hyaluronidase last?
Hyaluronidase eliminates all traces of previously injected hyaluronic acid. Without further hyaluronic acid injections, the results of hyaluronidase are long-lasting.How can the effect of a hyaluronidase injection be reversed?
To reverse the effects of hyaluronidase, further hyaluronic acid injections are required.Our exchanges with web users
This page is for information. It does not replace a consultation: every situation is judged on examination.