Fat-dissolving injections are permanent. Fat cells do not grow back or regenerate once they are destroyed. When a person receives a fat-dissolving injection, a provider injects deoxycholic acid into the submental fat (the fat under the chin). The acid is injected using a 1-mL tuberculin syringe and a thin needle. After the injection, the fat begins to dissolve.
With fat-dissolving injections, individuals can see differences in fat placement on their face or other parts of the body. For instance, some patients choose fat-dissolving injections to remove double chin fat.
How Injections Are Used
Some patients are interested in fat-dissolving injections as they are long-lasting and permanent. Additionally, the sodium deoxycholate preparation is FDA-approved to reduce persistent submental fat. In addition to this FDA-approved process, other fat-dissolving substances are approved, including phosphatidylcholine and deoxycholic acid.
Phosphatidylcholine enables fat absorption and transport. Deoxycholic acid is a component of human bile acid and helps digest fat in the intestine. This acid physically disrupts the cell membrane, leading to cell death.
The Injection Process
The injection technique involves several steps that must be carried out. For instance, the following must be completed:
- After consent and accurate photography, mark the injection area.
- While injecting, aseptic precautions are followed. Although anesthesia does not play a role in reducing the discomfort of injection, it may be used for sensitive patients.
- Inject a specific amount of deoxycholic acid per session, divided into multiple pricks.
- The prick must be deep and between 6 and 10mm.
3-5 sessions are required. Sessions may be spaced 4 weeks apart. Depending on recovery, this may be increased to 8 weeks. - After the injections, apply topical antibiotics to the treatment area.
After that, post-treatment care can begin.
After the Treatment Process
Patients who receive fat-dissolving injections may experience several side effects after the treatment process takes place. Some may experience swelling and bruising. After you receive the injection, a doctor will inform you of aftercare and specific precautions to take. After treatment, you may experience the following:
- Swelling
- Discomfort
- Bruising
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Dehydration
- Skin ulceration
- Nerve injury
You may experience the above effects from 2 days to 2 weeks after injection. To help reduce pain, consider:
- Applying cold compresses to the area
- Taking oral anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your doctor
- Refraining from massaging the treatment area for 48 hours
- Avoiding heavy lifting and intense physical activity
- Drinking plenty of fluids to remain hydrated
- Refraining from drinking alcohol or smoking
- Avoiding the heat and staying indoors when possible
- Managing discomfort and pain with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Keeping your face and neck elevated
- Maintaining a clean area where the treatment took place
By following these instructions, you have a better chance of recovering quickly and effectively. Speak with your doctor if you have questions regarding your health. After 4 weeks, you will likely have a scheduled follow-up appointment to assess your recovery status.
Find Treatment Today
If you want to remove fat permanently, consider fat-dissolving injections. At Marshak Ophthalmic Plastic & Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer a wide range of injectable treatments, as well as eyelid and facial procedures.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and speak with one of our experts, who can walk you through everything we offer. Dr. Marshak is an expert in his field and provides patients with thorough care. Learn more about our injectable services today.