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Are Fat-Dissolving Injections Right for You? Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions
Are you struggling with stubborn fat that just won’t budge, no matter how hard you diet or exercise? At MD Skin Lab, we understand that achieving your body goals can sometimes require more than just diet and exercise. That's why we offer innovative, non-invasive treatments to help you target stubborn fat in specific areas at our downtown Toronto medical clinic.
Fat-dissolving injections, also known as Deoxycholic acid injections, are among the most popular options for contouring those hard-to-reach spots. In this blog, we'll walk you through the most commonly asked questions about fat-dissolving injections and how to determine if this treatment is right for you before you book your appointment with our physician injectors.
What Are Fat-Dissolving Injections?
Fat-dissolving injections are a non-surgical approach to reducing unwanted fat in targeted body areas. These injections use a specialized compound, deoxycholic acid, to break down fat cells in areas like the chin (double chin), thighs, abdomen, and more. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps metabolize dietary fat, making it a powerful tool for contouring stubborn areas that don’t respond to diet or exercise.
Treatments such as Lipodissolve, Belkyra®, and Kybella® utilize deoxycholic acid to target subcutaneous fat, particularly in the chin area, where many struggle with excess fat (submental fat). This minimally invasive procedure works by breaking down the fat cells at the injection site, which are gradually eliminated through the body’s natural processes. Unlike more invasive procedures like liposuction, fat-dissolving injections require no surgery or extended downtime, making them an attractive option for those looking to enhance their profile with minimal disruption to their daily life.
How Do Fat-Dissolving Injections Work?
When injected into the fat layer, deoxycholic acid disrupts the fat cell membrane, causing the cells to break down. Over time, your body's natural processes will clear these cells away, permanently removing them from the treated area. This treatment targets subcutaneous fat without affecting surrounding tissues.
The effects are gradual, with optimal results typically seen after several weeks as the body processes the destroyed fat cells. Our physician injectors may recommend multiple sessions spaced weeks apart for many patients to achieve their desired look. Your physician injector will always provide a tailored plan when you book an appointment at our medical clinic.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
Fat-dissolving injections address extra fat deposits or the desire for a contoured look. The other areas that can be treated include:
- Submental Area (Double Chin): One of the most popular areas that helps define the jawline and reduce fat under the chin
- Abdomen Flanks: For those small, stubborn areas of belly fat and “love handles.”
- Thighs: Ideal for reducing inner thigh fat.
- Back: To target areas of fat around the bra line or upper back.
- Above the Knees: For a more toned look.
Each treatment is tailored to your specific needs. During your consultation at MD Skin Lab, we will assess the areas where fat removal is desired and develop a custom plan for you.
Are Fat-Dissolving Injections Right for Me?
Fat-dissolving injections are an excellent option for individuals looking for non-surgical fat reduction. The best candidates are typically those close to their ideal body weight, who stay active, but deal with stubborn fat pockets that don't respond to diet or exercise.
Ideal candidates for fat-dissolving injections:
- Are generally healthy and at or near their target weight.
- Have a regular exercise routine or are active
- Have localized fat deposits they want to eliminate
-
Are looking for a non-surgical solution to fat reduction.
This treatment is not intended for large-volume fat loss, and it's essential to have realistic expectations about what fat-dissolving injections can achieve.
What Does the Treatment Feel Like?
The treatment process is relatively quick and can be completed in about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. A series of small injections are made directly into the targeted fat area using a fine needle. Many patients describe the sensation as mild discomfort, and at MD Skin Lab, we take steps to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
After the treatment, it is normal to experience some swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection site. These side effects are temporary and typically resolve within a few days.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
While each patient's body responds differently, multiple sessions are often required for optimal results. Many of our patients benefit from 3-6 treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart. During your initial consultation, we will create a personalized treatment plan and discuss the number of sessions recommended based on your aesthetic goals.
Results from fat-dissolving injections are permanent, as the destroyed fat cells do not return if the individual continues with nutritious eating and regular activity.
Are There Any Side Effects?
As with any cosmetic treatment, there are potential side effects from fat-dissolving injections. Common side effects include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Redness
- Tenderness at the injection site
These effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days to a week. Some patients may also experience temporary numbness in the treated area. If you have any specific concerns, you can discuss them with your physician injector during your consultation.
How Long Until I See Results?
Results vary depending on the individual and the area treated, but most patients begin to notice changes within 4-6 weeks after their first or second session. As your body gradually eliminates the fat cells, the treated area will continue to improve. Full results are typically seen after a series of treatments.
What Makes Fat-Dissolving Injections Different from Other Treatments?
Unlike other body contouring treatments, such as liposuction, fat-dissolving injections are non-surgical and minimally invasive. This makes them a more convenient option for those who want to avoid the downtime and risks associated with surgery. The results are also permanent, as the fat cells that are destroyed do not regenerate.
Compared to treatments like CoolSculpting, which freezes fat cells, fat-dissolving injections offer a more targeted approach, especially in areas like the chin, where precision is key.
In addition to these benefits, we have also trained physician injectors to administer the injections for all our patients, ensuring a safe and stress-free experience.
What Happens After the Treatment?
After your treatment, you can return to most daily activities. However, it's recommended to avoid intense physical activity for 48 hours post-treatment. Swelling and redness are common, and while they may initially make the area appear fuller, these effects will subside as your body metabolizes the fat.
In the weeks following your treatment, you'll notice gradual improvement, and the results will continue to enhance with each session. The treated area will appear slimmer and more contoured, giving you a refreshed, more sculpted appearance.
Ready to Learn More?
At MD Skin Lab, we offer fat-dissolving injections as part of our commitment to providing advanced, non-invasive treatments that help you look and feel your best! If you're ready to take the next step toward achieving your body contouring goals, schedule a consultation with our physician injector. We'll assess your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you reach your aesthetic goals.
