Brits Ditch Lip Filler for Natural Look – What Are the Complications?

New data highlights more and more Brits are turning away from plumped pouts in favour of a more natural look, following a string of high-profile celebrities reversing their filler. Meanwhile, interest in getting new lip fillers has dropped, indicating a shift in beauty trends.

VIP Italia analysed Google search data to see if lip fillers have had a decrease in popularity. 

Searches for “dissolve lip filler” were up 58% in the past month, while “hyaluronidase”, the most common treatment, saw a 105% increase. At the same time, searches for “lip filler near me” have decreased by 4% in the past month and 31% in the past quarter.

What Is Dermal Filler?

In simple terms, dermal fillers are a non-surgical treatment used to add volume to certain areas of the face, such as the cheeks, lips, and under the eyes. They’re injected just under the skin, and the process normally takes less than an hour, with almost instant results. 

Some types of filler are made from substances naturally found in the body, such as hyaluronic acid, while others are made from synthetic materials or even a person’s own fat.

Although dermal fillers are generally considered safe, common side effects include swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site. In some cases, filler may lead to infections, lumps under the skin, or, in rare cases, damage to skin tissue or even vision problems. That’s why it’s important that treatments are carried out by a qualified medical professional.

Is Dissolving Filler Safe?

Dr Eldimarys Curry-Machado, an Aesthetic Dermatologist at Harley Street Health Centre, says, “There is a strong link with the rise in procedures and the trends in the kinds of faces people perceive as attractive. As fuller lips become normalised, people feel left behind and see their natural lips as not sufficiently full in comparison to celebrities and influencers. As we’ve returned to more natural trends, people don’t want to look “outdated” or set apart from their peers.

“Celebrities and social media influencers have a lot of power in terms of social beauty norms, from body type to procedures they choose. They are also responsible for making procedures socially acceptable – people use them as a test in some ways before considering their own procedures. The celebrity before-and-afters all over Instagram and TikTok encourage people to take steps towards their own enhancements and give them reassurance about the outcome. 

“The main method is using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that is injected to break up the hyaluronic acid (the base of the lip filler).

“It is a complete effect. It has an immediate effect, and the action can last up to 48 hours to almost a week. I always advise that if dissolving, wait at least two weeks before having new filler to ensure the new filler won’t be impacted by the hyaluronidase. People should factor this into their planning.”

Commenting on the potential complications when getting filler, Dr Curry-Machadoam noted, “Bruising in the area of injection and mild swelling is the most common impact. More complications can happen with excessive filler or excessive volume.

“It can be clear to someone if something doesn’t feel right – lip filler after being applied isn’t something you should be able to feel, there should not be a change of temperature or any pain once the bruising and swelling from the injections go down. If you feel anything unusual, definitely seek medical support.”

When it comes to dissolving filler, she said complications include: “Hollowing, volume loss and reduction of elasticity. Serious complications can include allergic reactions, so a patch test is always recommended before proceeding.

“You have to be careful not to dissolve filler too often, as this can also impact your natural levels of hyaluronic acid, causing ageing effects. It’s a well-defined protocol and should be done with care.”

Our Thoughts

Anastasia Lesnikova at VIP Italia added, “I’d be wary of celebrities saying they have completely dissolved their filler, as in reality, they have probably just decreased the amount they have to achieve a more 'natural' look. Public figures have a lot of influence, and failing to disclose the truth behind their work leads to unrealistic beauty standards.

“While hyaluronidase is commonly used to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers, it's not specifically licensed for that purpose in some regions, and its use is considered off-label. This means that while practitioners can use it for this purpose, they need to ensure patients are fully informed about its off-label use and potential risks as part of the consent process.

“Seriously consider your thoughts and the possible complications before any cosmetic procedure. Beauty trends are always changing, so your opinion, not outside pressures, should be the only thing that matters. Although filler is easily reversible, other procedures aren’t, so don’t jump on trends too quickly; you could risk regretting your decision.”

Dr Svetlana Riter, an aesthetic dermatologist at Vip Italia, says:

“While dermal fillers are widely used for aesthetic enhancement, it's essential to recognise that even the most reputable products can carry risks when not administered properly. Incorrect injection techniques, excessive volume, or use in individuals with allergies may lead to autoimmune or allergic responses.

“Certain individuals may also experience adverse reactions to the introduction of a foreign substance, such as hyaluronic acid-based fillers. In these cases, the body may respond with inflammation, the development of fibrotic tissue (fibrosis), or unintentional migration of the filler within surrounding tissues.

“Although manufacturers typically state that fillers are naturally broken down and eliminated from the body within 6 to 8 months, emerging clinical evidence, particularly MRI-based studies, reveals that microscopic residues of fillers can remain in the tissue for years, or even permanently. These remnants may become encapsulated, leading to fibrosis, impaired lymphatic circulation, and disruption of healthy tissue structure.”

If you have any questions about our findings or would like to arrange an interview with an expert, please email lance@vipitalia.com.