Filler Complications

Filler can be a wonderful tool for subtle, non-surgical enhancement. But when results don’t turn out as expected, it can affect more than your appearance. Dr. Connor offers thoughtful, expert care to help restore comfort, confidence, and natural facial balance.

Understanding Filler Complications

While dermal fillers are generally safe and effective, complications can occasionally occur, especially when treatment is performed by inexperienced or unqualified injectors. Common issues include swelling, asymmetry, lumps or bumps, filler migration, or an unnatural appearance. These concerns are most often seen in the lips, cheeks, jawline, or forehead. If you’re experiencing one or more of these signs, you are not alone—you have options for safe, corrective treatment.

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How Are Filler Complications Treated?

Dr. Michael Connor is highly experienced in filler revision procedures and takes a personalized, conservative approach to treatment. For most hyaluronic acid-based fillers (like Juvederm or Restylane), he uses an injectable enzyme called hyaluronidase to gently break down and dissolve the unwanted product. Most patients see visible improvement within 24–48 hours, with full effects developing over the course of a few weeks.

In more complex cases or with non-HA fillers, Dr. Connor may use alternatives such as steroid injections, saline, or sodium thiosulfate—always keeping your comfort and safety in mind.

How Hyaluronidase Works

Hyaluronidase breaks down the chemical bonds that hold hyaluronic acid molecules together, allowing the body to naturally reabsorb the filler. The process is relatively quick, and treatment can often be performed in under 30 minutes.

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What Are the Benefits of Filler Correction?

Restores facial balance and symmetry
Resolves unwanted volume or irregular texture
Enhances comfort and peace of mind
Helps return to a natural, more authentic appearance
Supports confidence in moving forward with or without future aesthetic treatments

Who Is a Good Candidate for Filler Removal?

If you’re unhappy with the results of a recent filler treatment or are experiencing visible or physical complications, you may be an excellent candidate for correction. Patients typically seek filler removal if:

They feel overfilled or unnatural.
Filler has migrated or created asymmetry.
They've had a negative reaction to the product.
They’ve changed their mind about wanting filler.
They are seeking a more subtle or balanced look.

Dr. Connor will meet with you for a personalized consultation to determine the best plan based on your goals, anatomy, and filler history.

What to Expect During Treatment

Filler removal is typically quick and well-tolerated. After numbing the skin with a topical anesthetic, Dr. Michael Connor will use a fine needle to carefully inject hyaluronidase into the areas of concern. You may experience some mild swelling, tenderness, or redness, but these symptoms usually fade within a day or two. In some cases, more than one session may be recommended to dissolve the filler fully. Dr. Connor will create a treatment schedule tailored to your specific needs.

Recovery and Aftercare

After treatment, most patients resume normal activities on the same day. To support healing and minimize side effects, it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise and exposure to heat (such as saunas or hot tubs) for 24–48 hours.

You may begin to see improvements within 1–2 days, though full results can take up to two weeks as swelling subsides and the product is fully broken down. Dr. Connor will advise you on the number of sessions needed based on your treatment history and aesthetic goals.

“Dr. Connor is awesome.”

"I've had numerous surgeries, and the results with him are outstanding. He is extremely skilled, and his personal interest in you is compassionate.”

- J.S.

Preventing Filler Complications in the Future

The most effective way to prevent complications is to choose a highly trained, experienced provider who understands facial anatomy and takes a conservative approach to treatment. Some helpful guidelines include:

Only work with board-certified, credentialed injectors.
Ask about the products being used and ensure they’re FDA-approved.
Be wary of aggressive upselling or overfilling.
Focus on subtle, natural results.
Be transparent about your medical history and expectations.

Why Choose Dr. Michael Connor for Filler Correction?

Dr. Connor is a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon and one of only 600 fellowship-trained oculofacial specialists in the United States. He is frequently referred complex revision cases from other providers and is known for his attention to detail, clinical integrity, and artistic eye.

But what truly sets Dr. Michael Connor apart is how he cares for his patients. He listens with compassion, communicates clearly, and guides every person through their treatment journey with honesty and empathy. His goal isn’t just to correct the aesthetic issue—it’s to help you feel more comfortable, confident, and supported throughout the entire process.

Frequently Asked Questions Filler Complications

How many sessions will I need to remove filler?

This depends on how much filler was used and how your body responds to Hyaluronidase. Most patients need 1–3 sessions per area.

Can all fillers be dissolved?

Only hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvederm and Restylane can be reversed with Hyaluronidase. Other fillers may require steroid injections or alternative methods.

How quickly will I see results?

Most patients begin seeing changes within 24–48 hours, but full results may take up to two weeks as swelling fades and filler breaks down completely.

Is the treatment painful?

No more than your original filler treatment. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand, and any post-treatment discomfort is minimal and short-lived.

Are there any risks?

Reactions to Hyaluronidase are rare but possible, especially in patients with allergies to bee stings. Common side effects include mild swelling, tenderness, and redness that typically resolve within a day or two.

How much does filler correction cost?

Costs depend on the amount of Hyaluronidase needed and the number of sessions required. Dr. Connor will provide a transparent quote during your consultation.

Schedule Your Private Consultation Serving Palm Beach Gardens and West Palm Beach

If you’ve experienced disappointing results from fillers, you deserve thoughtful, expert care. Dr. Connor provides a safe, respectful space to explore your options and determine the best path forward. Consultations are focused on education and trust. Call us today at (561) 845-6500 or complete the form below to schedule your consultation at Oculoplastic & Orbital Consultants in Palm Beach Gardens.