Fat-dissolving injections (Deoxycholic acid)

Treatment Time

15 – 20 minutes.

Downtime

None.

Lasts

Indefinite

Treatment Period

Many patients will notice visible improvements to the appearance of their chin profile in two to four treatments, through some will require up to six treatments. Once your desired results are achieved, additional treatments will not be needed.

Discomfort Level

Mild to moderate.

Results

Can take a few weeks to show results, as the skin takes time to produce collagen.

Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occuring substance in our body that is important in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected, it destroys fat cells that can no longer store or accumulate fat. When injected to the fat beneath the chin, it decreases the fullness under the chin.
Who Is a Good Candidate?

Fat-dissolving injections are ideal for patients who:

  • Are near their ideal weight but have localized fat deposits that don’t respond to diet or exercise.
  • Prefer a non-surgical option for fat reduction.
  • Are seeking long-lasting results (once fat cells are destroyed, they don’t return)

An in-person consultation is essential to assess areas such as the jowls, neck, and submental fat. It’s important to distinguish submental fullness caused by excess fat from genetic or weight-related factors. During the consultation, factors like age, skin elasticity, turgor, weight, and the degree of sagging will be carefully evaluated to determine if this procedure is the right treatment for you.

Swelling is a common side effect post -procedure. Typically the swelling worsens and then resolves around day 5-7. For some patients, the swelling can extend up to 14 days and up to 1 month in rarer cases. Additionally, most patients experience reduced swelling with each subsequent treatment session, as there is less fat remaining to be dissolved. Swelling after injections can be minimized by using a cold compress, sleeping in an upright position, gently massaging the treated lymphatic area, or wearing a chin or neck wrap while sleeping.
  • Non-invasive and non-surgical.
  • Minimal downtime compared to liposuction.
  • Permanent results with proper diet and lifestyle maintenance.

As with any treatment, there are potential risks and side effects. These include:

  • Temporary swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site.
  • Numbness or firmness in the treated area.
  • Skin necrosis at the site of injection 
  • Rare side effects like nerve injury causing temporary facial asymmetry.

Typically 2-6 treatments, spaced at least 1 month apart is recommended.