Does fat dissolving injections work?

Fat dissolving injections involve the skilful injection of a solution which dissolves fat cells. This treatment is particularly effective for stubborn fat in areas like the double chin, bra fat, love handles, and abdominal fat, to name a few. Additionally, fat dissolving injections indirectly contribute to improving cellulite, enhancing your overall appearance.

Each patient is unique, which is why we begin with a face-to-face consultation and assessment. This includes psychological evaluations to ensure your aesthetic goals align with your well-being. Every treatment plan is customised to your specific requirements, ensuring your enhancements reflect your individual beauty.

How do fat dissolving injections work?

Fat dissolving injections work by introducing deoxycholic acid into the targeted area. Once injected, the deoxycholic acid triggers a process known as adipocytolysis. During this process, the fat cells are broken down leading to their release into the bloodstream. Consequently, your body gets rid of them naturally.

Fat dissolving injections are not intended for weight loss or as a substitute for diet and exercise! Rather, they are most effective when used to target small, localized areas of fat. You will need a course of treatment depending on the area treated and the product used.

As with any medical procedure, there are some potential side effects, such as temporary redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the injection site. Therefore, choosing a skilled and experienced aesthetic doctor is crucial to ensure safe and effective treatment.

What to expect with fat dissolving injections

Before treatment

Consultation and assessment: Before the treatment, you will be invited for a consultation. The consultation serves many purposes. Firstly, you can discuss your specific concerns. Secondly, I can examine the areas you wish to address. Thirdly, I can determine if you are a suitable candidate for fat dissolving injections. And finally, we can formulate a treatment plan.

During treatment

1. Preparation: On the day of the treatment, the treatment area will be marked and your skin thoroughly cleaned to maintain a sterile environment.
2. Local anaesthesia: You don’t normally require any local anaesthetic prior to the procedure. However, some products are mixed with a local anaesthetic to reduce discomfort during the injection.
3. Fat dissolving injections: Your treatment may be carried out in one of two ways. You may have superficial injections with very fine needles. Conversely, longer needles may be used in areas such as the belly.
4. Adipocytolysis: Once the solution is injected, it starts to work on the fat cells in the treated area. The active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, acts on the fat cells by disrupting the fat cell membranes, causing the fat cells to break down.
5. Release of fatty acids: As the fat cells break down, they release fatty acids and other components into the bloodstream. These by-products are then gradually metabolised and transported to the liver for further processing and elimination.

After treatment

1. Natural elimination: Over the following weeks to months, the body’s lymphatic system plays a crucial role in naturally eliminating the released fat by-products. The lymphatic system is responsible for carrying waste and toxins away from tissues and organs, including the broken-down fat from the treated area.
2. Results: As the lymphatic system works to remove the fat, you will gradually notice a reduction in fat volume and an improvement in the contour of the treated area. The results of fat dissolving injections are typically gradual and progressive, allowing for a natural-looking transformation.

Is fat dissolving safe?

Safety is always my top priority. While fat dissolving injections are safe and effective in skilled hands, incorrect administration can lead to complications. In rare cases, severe complications include nerve damage, infection, necrosis or tissue death. This is why I always invest in the highest level of training and use the best products available.

After treatment, expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort—it’s all part of the process signalling the treatment is working. During your consultation, I will discuss the common side effects, ensuring you are well-prepared for the recovery process. You will also receive written aftercare instructions to guide you through the recovery journey. I’m here to support you every step of the way and encourage you to reach out with any concerns.

Can it be combined with other treatments?

Fat dissolving injections can be seamlessly combined with other treatments like Botox and fillers. This synergy allows us to comprehensively address your aesthetic needs. For instance, reducing a double chin through fat dissolving injections can enhance a jawline treatment, creating a harmonious and natural look.

Are the results permanent?

The fat cells that are broken down and eliminated from the body through these injections will not regenerate in the treated area. However, it’s important to understand that the remaining fat cells in the treated area can still enlarge if you gain weight in the future. This can potentially affect the overall appearance of the treated area.