All about Fat Dissolving Injections

Somethings in life sound too good to be true. An injection that promises to melt away your fat is certainly one of them. Khloe Kardashian may have famously reported its use to help reduce her double chin, but does it work? Or is it like that email from your long-lost cousin promising you £100 million as long as you pass over all your bank details?

What even is it?

Produced under the trade names - Aqualyx, Desobody, and Kybella (not available in the UK), they all work very similarly. The procedure is called intralipotherapy - aka FatBusting. It involves injecting a solution of deoxycholic acid - a detergent that's known to kill fat cells. These dead fat cells are then drained out through the body's lymphatic system.

Great, can I have it across my whole body?

Short answer yes. Long answer it's probably not a good idea.

This treatment works best across small localized areas of stubborn fat - ideally those that do not respond to diet and exercise. If you are overweight or have large fat deposits this treatment is not the best option.

It can be used across almost all areas of the body- the common ones being the double chin area, stomach, thighs, and arms.

How long till I see results?

You are unlikely to see your desired results after 1 session and we advise a total of 3-6 sessions depending on the area treated. These sessions are spaced 6 weeks apart.

Your treating clinician will be able to give you more detailed information after assessing the area you wish to treat.

Is it painful? Is there downtime?

A local anesthetic is used to minimize the discomfort you may feel during treatment, and most people handle the procedure well. However, the area can feel tender post-treatment for a day or so.

Post-treatment you will also get swelling. This is due to the solution that's injected and as it drains out taking all the dead fat with it, this goes down over the next week or so. The swelling is normally at its peak the day after treatment, and then it starts to subside. we recommend a Spanx like compression garment for a few days post-treatment to minimize the swelling. Please see the photo I've attached to see what type of swelling to expect directly after treatment.

Its also common to have some redness, and numbness in the area - again this subsides over a few weeks as the area heals.

The substance we use in this treatment is very potent and has to only be injected into the fat cells to reduce the risk of complications. So do make sure you choose an experienced medical practitioner for this treatment!

Fat injections Vs Liposuction

For small stubborn areas of fat - Fat-dissolving injections are great. They are less invasive and have less downtime. They can be fit into your lunch break, and you can be back to work the same day.

However, for larger areas or significant fat deposits liposuction may be better suited. The downtime ranges from 1 to 2 weeks depending on the areas treated, and it's often done under sedation or GA. However, it's very efficient in removing large quantities of fat.

How do I get started?

Book in for a consultation with an experienced registered practitioner for a consultation and they will be able to give you tailored advice. Drop us a message today to book in or find out more!

Related Links: Fat Dissolving Injections FAQ