Fat dissolving

Fat dissolving with deoxycholic acid is a clinically proven, minimally invasive treatment designed to reduce small pockets of stubborn, diet-resistant fat. 

Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into targeted areas, it works by disrupting fat cell membranes—permanently destroying the cells so they can no longer store fat.

This treatment offers a refined, contour-enhancing solution for clients seeking subtle yet noticeable improvement without surgery or downtime. It is ideal for sculpting and refining specific areas that do not respond to diet and exercise.

Fat dissolving

Benefits Of Fat Dissolving

Permanently destroys unwanted fat cells

Non-surgical with minimal downtime

Refines facial and body contours

Effective for small, localized fat pockets

Gradual, natural-looking slimming effect

Suitable for a wide range of treatment areas

Key Ingredients & Their Functions

Deoxycholic Acid (DCA): This is the most common and primary active ingredient in many fat-dissolving injections, such as Aqualyx. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring bile acid in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat.

Phosphatidylcholine (PPC): This substance (often derived from soybeans) is present in some formulations, where it works with deoxycholic acid. It is a main component of cell membranes and helps in the breakdown and transport of fats.

How they Affect Fat cells

When injected into targeted, localized fat deposits, these active ingredients work through a process called adipocytolysis:
 
  • Disruption of Cell Membranes: The deoxycholic acid acts as a detergent, physically disrupting the cell membranes of the fat cells (adipocytes) in the injected area.
  • Cell Destruction: This disruption causes the fat cells to rupture and die, releasing their stored contents (lipids/triglycerides) into the surrounding tissue.
  • Natural Elimination: The body then initiates a local inflammatory response, attracting immune cells called macrophages to the site. These macrophages engulf the destroyed fat cell debris and released lipids.

Frequent Questions

What Are The Treatment Areas

Submental area (double chin)

Jawline contouring

Bra bulge

Upper arms

Abdomen (small, localized pockets)

Flanks

Inner knees

Thigh contours (select areas)

*Treatment areas vary by individual anatomy, & suitability is assessed during consultation.

Avoid blood thinners, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, NSAIDS for 3 days prior

Avoid supplements Omega 3, Fish oils, Vitamin E, Ginko biloba, Ginseng, St. John’s wort & Ginger 3 days prior to injections

Eat a meal or light snack prior to treatment.

It is normal for the injection site to sting/burn for just a few seconds during or after the injection

Don’t drink alcohol for 48 hours prior to treatment

Take Arnica Tablets up to 5 days prior if desired 30c potency are best

Purchase pressure garment/ Spanx

Take paracetamol prior to appointment

Optimal results are achieved with clients who continue treatments routinely.

Do not schedule during active infections or skin irritation near the treatment area.

Arrive well-hydrated and with clean, product-free skin.

Please call to reschedule if you experience flu like symptoms or a respiratory infection in the days prior to treatment.

Inform your provider of any medical conditions, recent procedures, or medications.

Most patients need 3-6 treatments, 4-6 weeks apart until desired results are achieved. In some cases, up to 6 sessions may be needed, especially for larger areas.

20-45 Minutes, depending on size of area to be treated

Before the treatment, we start your appointment with a consultation to assess your areas of concern. The area is cleansed and prepared for the injections. A very small needle is used to administer the product and the area is massaged 

Minimal discomfort, a mild stinging sensation during the procedure, which can be minimized with a topical numbing cream

Numbing cream (optional)

Minimal – You can typically return to daily activities right after the procedure.

Expect some redness, swelling, and tenderness in the treated area, similar to a sunburn, which should start to subside within a few days. Light bruising may also occur.

Wear a compression garment to help with swelling and results

Do not take anti-Inflammatories for 7 days, use paracetamol

Arnica cream may be applied generously before bed

Do not expose the treatment areas to intense heat or cold e.g. sauna, steam room, tanning bed, extreme exercise

Stay well hydrated 1.5-2L of water per day

Expect moderate swelling, redness, itching, numbness, and bruising for 7-10 days

Optimal results are achieved with clients who continue treatments routinely

Apply cool compresses intermittently for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.

Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, or heat for 48 hours.

Expect swelling—it is normal and part of the fat-dissolving process.

Keep the area clean and avoid massaging unless instructed by your provider.

Schedule for follow up appointment 3-6 treatments, 4 weeks apart until desired results are achieved

Contact your provider if you experience intense pain, hard lumps, or signs of infection.

You may notice improvements after the first treatment as swelling subsides. The final results are typically visible 2 to 3 months after the last session.

A detailed consultation will be performed. Allergic reactions are possible. Inform your practitioner of any known allergies before the procedure.

Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Active infection, inflammation, or skin lesions at the treatment site

Allergy or hypersensitivity to deoxycholic acid or any component of the formulation

Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) for treatments near the jawline

Active thyroid disorders affecting the neck area (for submental treatments)

Bleeding disorders or use of anticoagulant medications (unless medically cleared)

Previous surgery or scar tissue in the area that may alter anatomy

Severe medical conditions affecting healing or immunity

Uncontrolled diabetes

Presence of large hernias or abnormalities in the treatment area

Obesity as the primary concern rather than small, localised fat pockets