Fat Dissolving Injections
Fat dissolving injections are a non-surgical option to dissolve and permanently remove small areas of stubborn fat. These injections can be used to sculpt, contour and define the lower face as well as remove stubborn fat elsewhere on the body.
Fat dissolving injections contain an acid which is naturally occurring in the body and works to breakdown and absorb the fat contained in the food we consume. Once removed, the results are permanent. When injected into fatty tissue, it disrupts the membrane of the fat cells, leading to cell breakdown therefore, dissolving and destroying the fat within that area. .
Post treatment the body has an inflammatory response and some tissue contraction. Your body then safely removes the fat through its lymphatic system. It typically requires 2 to 4 treatments with 4 to 6 week intervals between each session. Although, a person with less body fat will only require one session. Once the desired aesthetic result has been achieved, no further treatments will be required
Unlike liposuction, Aqualyx leads to a degree of skin tightening, so you are less likely to end up with loose skin around the areas that have been treated.
Treatment areas include;
Fat below the chin
Jawline contouring
Jowl fat
Upper arm fat / bra line fat
Upper back fat
Abdominal fat
Flanks (love handle)
Thighs
Fat above the knees or elbows
FAQ’s
+ What does the treatment involve?
Much like other cosmetic injectable procedures such as dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers, a thorough consultation with practitioners will address your concerns and your suitability for a treatment with fat dissolving injections.
The treatment involves sterilising and marking the treatment area with a special grid to enable precise delivery of the fat dissolving acid. Small injections with a small needle are then made into the fatty tissue. The procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes per area.
Local anaesthetic cream may be applied prior to the procedure and ice can also be applied during the treatment to help numb the skin. Local anaesthetic is also added to the vial of Aqualyx to ensure patient comfort. After the injections the area can feel warm and prickly (similar to sunburn). This is usually worse in the hour following the treatment. Simple pain relief such as paracetamol is advised after the treatment.
+ How long does the treatment last?
The results of fat dissolving injections are permanent.
Initially a treatment will be performed every 4-6 weeks (ideally 6 weeks to ensure full results and resolution of swelling). No more than 4 treatments are usually required with the majority of patients having their desired result after 2-4 treatments.
The amount needed will be determined at your initial consultation as every patient is different in their requirements.
+ What happens after my treatment?
As with any cosmetic injectable procedure there are expected side effects which may include pain and discomfort, bruising, swelling and redness. The swelling may persist for up to 3-6 weeks after the treatment while the acid is working to dissolve the fat. In this case of treatment, swelling is a good thing, it means the fat dissolving treatment is working due to the body's inflammatory response. Paracetamol is advised to to reduce any discomfort felt however, avoid any anti-inflammatory analgesia, such as ibuprofen as this will work against the product.
+ Are there any risks with Fat Dissolving Injections?
The treatment is very low risk and effective with only minimal discomfort. There are certain risks as with any medical procedure.
Occasional side effects with fat dissolving treatment may include temporary numbness to the skin under the chin and areas of hardness to the injected area. Rare side effects include temporary problems with facial muscles eg weak smile and problems swallowing (due to nerve injury). However these should resolve within a few days to 2 months at longest.
The treatment cannot be performed if you have an active infection in the treatment area. It is important to inform your practitioner if you have had surgery to the face/jaw/chin, previous cosmetic injectables, bleeding problems or taking blood thinning medications (eg aspirin). The treatment cannot be performed in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.