What do lipolysis injections do?
The injected substance acts on the membranes of fat cells and damages them; the body then clears the damaged cells over time.
Deoxycholic acid is a bile acid that also occurs naturally in the body and helps with fat absorption. As an injection it is known to break down fat cells and is used in limited areas such as under the chin.
There are also mixtures with different ingredients sold under various names. Their composition, evidence and licensing can differ, so product information should always be asked for.
Which areas and which people is it considered for?
It is generally considered for small, limited fat deposits such as under the chin. It may not suit wide areas.
Fullness under the chin is assessed together with the amount of fat and skin laxity. If the skin is loose, losing fat can make sagging more visible.
There is a separate page in the mesotherapy cluster for the chin area. For wider areas, cryolipolysis or surgical options are discussed.
What is the process and recovery like?
The area is marked and injected at several points with a fine needle. Swelling and bruising are expected over the following days, and the number of sessions is planned individually.
Swelling is usually most noticeable within days and eases over weeks. Results are judged between sessions, and advice such as cold packs and rest should come from your physician.
Because swelling can limit social activity for a short time, leaving enough time before important events is advisable.
What are the risks and when should I contact a doctor?
Swelling, bruising, pain, firmness and temporary numbness are common. Nerve injury, skin necrosis and infection are rare but serious risks.
In areas such as under the chin, branches of the facial nerves lie nearby; temporary asymmetry of the smile or difficulty swallowing has been reported. For this reason treatment should be given by an experienced, authorised physician.
If pain increases, skin colour changes, or there is fever, discharge, or difficulty swallowing or breathing, contact the treating physician or emergency services without delay. Do not try to manage it yourself.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions do lipolysis injections take?
It depends on the area and the amount of fat. The plan is made at the consultation, with review between sessions.
Is deoxycholic acid safe?
Approved products exist for specific uses, but they have side effects. Ask about the product's licensing and source.
How long does swelling last?
From days to a few weeks, varying with the person and the treatment.
Does it make you lose weight?
No. It aims to affect fat in a small area and is not a weight-loss method.
Who should not have it?
It may not suit people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active infection, or have another problem in the area. The physician decides.
Sources (5)
- U.S. FDA: KYBELLA (deoxycholic acid) injection, for subcutaneous use: Prescribing Information (2022)
- U.S. FDA: Using Fat-Dissolving Injections That Are Not FDA Approved Can Be Harmful
- EMA / CMDh: Deoxycholic acid: CMDh scientific conclusions and grounds for the variation to the terms of the marketing authorisation(s), amendments to the product information and timetable for implementation (PSUSA/00010525/201804) (2018)
- Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum (peer-reviewed journal): Management of Serious Adverse Events Following Deoxycholic Acid Injection for Submental and Jowl Fat Reduction: A Systematic Review and Management Recommendations (2024)
- Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol (peer-reviewed journal): Efficacy and safety of injectable deoxycholic acid for submental fat reduction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (2021)
This content is for general information and does not replace a personal medical assessment.