A Guide to Fat Dissolving Injections

Fat-dissolving injections are a non-surgical treatment that may assist in reducing small, localised fat deposits in certain areas of the body. These injections contain substances that break down fat cells, which the body gradually eliminates through its natural processes.

Understanding Fat Dissolving Injections

The fat-dissolving treatment involves injectable solutions that break down fat cells, which are then processed and removed by the body over time. This procedure is not intended for weight loss but may be considered for individuals with specific areas of concern.

A consultation with a qualified health practitioner is required to assess suitability and discuss the potential risks involved, expected outcomes, and alternative options.

How Fat Dissolving Injections Work

Fat-dissolving injections contain deoxycholic acid, a substance that plays a role in breaking down dietary fat. When injected into targeted areas, deoxycholic acid disrupts fat cell membranes, causing the cells to break down. The body then gradually processes and eliminates these affected fat cells.

The primary ingredient in many fat-dissolving formulations is sodium deoxycholate, which targets fat cells while aiming to preserve surrounding tissue. The process of fat breakdown occurs gradually over several weeks, and multiple sessions may be required depending on the treatment, target area and the individual’s response to the injections.

A Comparison Between Fat Dissolving Injections and Liposuction

Both fat-dissolving injections and liposuction address fat reduction but use different approaches.

Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that physically reduces fat cells through suction. It requires anaesthesia and involves making small incisions to insert a cannula for fat removal.

Liposuction can typically remove a larger volume of fat in a single session, whereas fat-dissolving injections may require multiple sessions for noticeable results.

Fat-Dissolving Injections

Fat-dissolving injections, by contrast, do not involve surgery or incisions. The treatment is performed in a clinical setting and does not require anaesthesia. Instead of physically removing fat, the body gradually breaks down and eliminates fat cells after the injection process.

The number of treatments required for fat-dissolving injections varies depending on the treatment area and the individual’s response.

Areas Suitable for Fat-Dissolving Treatment

Fat-dissolving injections may be considered for individuals with localised fat deposits in specific areas of the body. A consultation with a qualified practitioner is necessary to determine whether this treatment is appropriate.

Submental fat, or known as chin fat is one of the most commonly treated areas. Fat-dissolving injections are used in this area to target fat cells, which the body gradually processes over time. In addition to the chin area, injections may be used in other areas where fat deposits are present.

Other common areas for treatment include:

• Upper arms
• Stomach
• Thighs
• Hips

It’s important to note that these injections are not intended for significant fat reduction but may be an option for individuals seeking to address smaller, persistent fat deposits.

Suitable Candidates for Fat Dissolving Injections Procedure

Fat-dissolving injections may be an option for individuals with small, localised fat deposits that have not responded to lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet and exercise. Fat-dissolving injections are not a weight loss solution and are not intended for individuals seeking a significant fat reduction.

Suitability for the procedure is assessed on a case-by-case basis during a consultation with a qualified health practitioner. Factors such as medical history, medications that are currently being taken, skin characteristics, and individual treatment goals will be evaluated to determine whether this approach is appropriate.

Procedure and Recovery

Consultation and Treatment Process

Before undergoing any cosmetic procedures, a consultation with a qualified health professional is required. During this consultation, the treatment area will be assessed, and the potential risks, expected outcomes, and alternative treatments will be discussed. Patients will have the opportunity to ask questions and make an informed decision before proceeding.

If the individual is deemed suitable for treatment, the procedure involves administering a series of injections into the targeted fat deposits. A numbing cream or local anaesthetic may be applied to reduce discomfort.

The injection process typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following the fat-dissolving injection procedure, it is common for most patients to experience mild swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site. Some individuals may also notice tenderness in the treated area, which usually resolves within a few days. Temporary numbness or firmness in the skin may also occur as the body begins to process the fat breakdown.

To support the healing process, it is generally recommended to avoid applying excessive pressure to the treated area and to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the treating practitioner. Some individuals may be advised to refrain from vigorous exercise for 24 to 48 hours following the initial treatment.

Since the fat reduction process occurs gradually, the full effects may not become visible for several weeks to months. The final outcome varies between individuals, and additional sessions may be required depending on the individual’s response to the treatment.

Potential Risks and Considerations

Like all cosmetic treatments, fat-dissolving injections carry potential risks, and it is important to be informed before proceeding. Common side effects include temporary swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site. Some individuals may experience tenderness in the treated area, which generally resolves within a few days.

In some cases, individuals may notice asymmetrical results, which may require further treatment or additional follow-up appointments. Although rare, there is a possibility of nerve irritation or prolonged swelling of the injected area. These risks will be discussed in detail during the consultation to ensure that patients can make an informed decision before proceeding with treatment.

Cost Considerations

The cost will depend on factors such as the size of the treatment area and the number of vials required per session. For smaller areas, such as the chin area, the cost may be lower, while larger areas may require additional products and multiple sessions, increasing the overall expense.

At MedAesthetics, the cost of this treatment starts from $1200. Typically, two treatment sessions are recommended, spaced two to three months apart. During your initial consultation, our clinical team will provide a tailored treatment plan and a detailed cost estimate based on your unique needs and goals.

Learn More About Fat-Dissolving Injections at MedAesthetics!

If you’re considering fat-dissolving injections, a consultation with a qualified practitioner from our clinic is essential to assess suitability and discuss potential outcomes. At MedAesthetics, we provide professional guidance and personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs.

Get in touch to learn more or to book your consultation today!