The world of cosmetic procedures often looks flawless on Instagram. But what happens when something goes wrong?
Earlier this week, influencer and content creator Urfi Javed shared an unfiltered glimpse into the painful aftermath of her decision to dissolve her lip fillers. Her face looked visibly swollen. She mentioned feeling discomfort, and more importantly, she admitted something that many influencers never do; she didn’t like the results of her previous filler job and wanted to correct it.
If you’re adding filler or reversing it, aesthetic treatments are medical procedures. They come with risks, complications, side effects and they require skill, experience and medical judgment.
So what exactly happened with Urfi’s treatment? Why did her face swell up after trying to correct her lip filler?
What Are Lip Fillers and Why Do People Dissolve Them?
Lip fillers are one of the most common aesthetic procedures today. They are usually made from hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in our skin, which helps keep it hydrated and plump. When injected into the lips, this gel-like material gives volume, structure, and definition.
But sometimes, the results don’t come out as expected. The filler might migrate from the lips into surrounding tissue. One side of the lip might look fuller than the other. The shape might appear unnatural. Or the overall look may simply not suit the face over time. In such cases, people opt to dissolve their fillers.
This is done using an injectable enzyme called hyaluronidase, which breaks down hyaluronic acid and allows the body to reabsorb it naturally. Sounds simple enough, right?
But like everything else in medical procedures, it’s never just a one-size-fits-all solution.
So What Happened with Urfi?
In her video, Urfi was candid. She had previously gotten lip fillers, but they appeared “misplaced.” Dissatisfied with the results, she chose to get them dissolved. But soon after the injection of hyaluronidase, her lips and parts of her face became swollen, painful, and visibly inflamed.
What Does Filler Dissolving Actually Involve?
Filler dissolving is a medical procedure involving an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which breaks down the hyaluronic acid in the filler. Once injected, it begins to dissolve the filler within hours. The effect is often seen within a day or two.
Dr. Shama Naaz, a dermatologist associated with HealthPil, explains:
“Hyaluronidase is used to dissolve lip fillers. Localised swelling can happen as a normal reaction. But allergic reaction to hyaluronidase can cause extensive facial swelling, itching, pain or even shortness of breath, which is a rare complication associated with dissolving lip fillers.”
In Urfi’s case, what we saw in the video was likely a localised inflammatory response. The swelling, though dramatic, was possibly part of the normal response the body has when exposed to hyaluronidase. But when it gets more intense, it could be a delayed allergic reaction, something every dermatologist is trained to identify and manage.
Is Dissolving Filler Risky?
The honest answer is that it can be. Like any injectable treatment, dissolving fillers carries a small but actual risk of complications.
Here are the most common issues:
1. Localised swelling and bruising
This is the most common side effect. Swelling can start immediately and last for 24–72 hours. Some redness or tenderness may accompany it.
2. Allergic reaction to hyaluronidase
This is rare, but serious. It can lead to widespread facial swelling, itching, hives, or even shortness of breath. That’s why doctors do a patch test before injecting hyaluronidase for the first time, especially in patients with a history of allergies.
3. Over-correction
If too much filler is dissolved, the lips may look too thin or uneven. This is why experienced injectors often do it in stages, reassessing the lips after each session.
4. Infection
Though rare, any injection can introduce bacteria. That’s why the procedure should only be done in sterile conditions under medical supervision.
Why Does the Face Swell Even After the Filler is Gone?
It’s important to understand that dissolving a filler does not instantly return the face to how it was before. The injection itself causes minor trauma, and the body reacts with swelling as part of the healing process.
In some people, especially those with sensitive skin or prior filler-related issues, this reaction can be stronger. Moreover, if the filler had migrated or formed lumps, the dissolving process may require multiple passes or higher enzyme concentration, which can further irritate the tissue.
Also, once the filler is gone, the tissue underneath can appear loose or deflated, which can be distressing for patients who expected to immediately “look better.”
Should You Be Worried If Your Filler is Causing Problems?
Yes, most issues with fillers, whether it’s poor results or minor migration, are correctable. The important thing is not to take matters into your own hands, and definitely not to go to salons or unqualified providers.
Here’s what to do if you’re experiencing swelling, unevenness, or discomfort after fillers:
● Don’t massage the area without medical advice
● Don’t try over-the-counter creams or ointments unless prescribed
● Visit a certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for an assessment
● If you experience sudden breathing difficulty, dizziness, or swelling in areas beyond the lips, seek emergency care
Why Consult Only Experts?
Choosing a qualified, experienced practitioner is crucial not just for injecting fillers, but also for correcting or reversing them. The doctor should be trained not only in the procedure, but also in managing allergic reactions, knowing the right dose, and understanding facial anatomy deeply.
A Final Word to Those Considering or Reversing Fillers
It’s completely valid to choose aesthetic procedures to enhance your appearance and equally valid to change your mind later. But cosmetic treatments, whether for enhancement or correction, should be approached with the same seriousness as any other medical intervention. Just as you would evaluate the risks and benefits before undergoing surgery, it’s important not to treat these procedures as casual or risk-free. Proper medical consultation and informed decision-making are essential.
Fillers interact with your body, your blood vessels, your immune system. And once something goes wrong, even if it’s reversible, the recovery process can be slow and emotionally stressful. If you’re planning to get fillers or dissolve them, take the time to find the right doctor, understand the risks, and have realistic expectations.
How HealthPil Can Help
If you are dealing with issues after a cosmetic procedure or considering one, you can consult trusted dermatologists through HealthPil. We provide online consultations, second opinions, and free question support for all cosmetic and aesthetic concerns.
Whether it’s a correction, a treatment, or simply a doubt you want clarified, HealthPil is here to help.
Disclaimer:
This blog is for general awareness purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor before starting, stopping, or reversing any cosmetic procedure. You can ask your doubts for free or book an online consultation with certified dermatologists through HealthPil.