Fat Dissolving treatment

Fat Dissolving Treatment FAQs

What is fat dissolving treatment and how does it work?

Fat dissolving injections use a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid — a substance naturally produced by the body to break down dietary fat — to permanently destroy fat cells in targeted areas. Once the fat cells are broken down, they are metabolised and eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system over the following weeks. The destroyed fat cells cannot regenerate, making results permanent provided weight remains stable.

What areas can be treated with fat dissolving injections?

The most commonly treated areas are the double chin (submental fat), jowls, bra strap fat, inner thighs, knees, stomach, flanks, and upper arms. It’s particularly effective for small, stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It is not a weight loss treatment and is best suited to clients who are close to their target weight with localised concerns.

How many sessions of fat dissolving treatment do I need?

Most clients need 2–4 sessions per area, spaced 6–8 weeks apart, to achieve their desired results. The exact number depends on the volume of fat in the area and your individual response to treatment. Some clients see significant improvement after just one session; others require more. We’ll give you a realistic assessment at consultation.

How long does fat dissolving treatment last?

The results are considered permanent because the fat cells themselves are destroyed. Once eliminated, they cannot return. However, remaining fat cells in the area can still expand with significant weight gain, so maintaining a stable weight is important for preserving results long-term.

Does fat dissolving treatment hurt?

There will be some discomfort during the injection process, and the treated area will likely feel tender, swollen, and warm for several days afterwards. Many clients describe a burning or stinging sensation during the injections that resolves within minutes. We use fine needles, work quickly, and can apply numbing cream beforehand to minimise discomfort. The recovery period is the part most clients find uncomfortable rather than the treatment itself.

What is the downtime after fat dissolving injections?

This treatment has more downtime than most aesthetic injectables. Expect significant swelling, redness, and tenderness in the treated area for 1–2 weeks. Swelling under the chin can be particularly noticeable and some clients prefer to plan treatment around time off or lower-key social commitments. The area may also feel hard or lumpy during healing — this is normal and resolves as the body processes the treated fat cells.

Are fat dissolving injections safe?

When performed by a trained practitioner using a regulated, licensed product, fat dissolving treatment is safe and well-tolerated. It’s essential to ensure the product being used is a legitimate pharmaceutical formulation — unregulated products marketed cheaply carry significant risks. At Crystalline Clinic, we use only approved formulations and carry out a thorough consultation to confirm suitability.

What are the side effects of fat dissolving treatment?

Expected side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, and numbness in the treated area, which may persist for 1–2 weeks. Temporary hardness or lumpiness beneath the skin is common as the body processes the disrupted fat cells. Rare side effects include nerve damage (particularly under the chin where the marginal mandibular nerve is located), which is why precise anatomical knowledge is essential in the practitioner.

Am I suitable for fat dissolving treatment?

Ideal candidates are adults at or near a stable, healthy weight with specific localised fat deposits that have not responded to lifestyle measures. It is not suitable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those with active infections in the treatment area, or those with certain autoimmune or lipid disorders. A full consultation will assess your suitability thoroughly.

When will I see results from fat dissolving injections?

Results develop gradually over 4–8 weeks as your body metabolises the destroyed fat cells. Some reduction may be visible sooner, but full results from each session are typically assessed at the 6–8 week mark before deciding whether additional sessions are needed. Don’t expect overnight results — this treatment works with your body’s natural processes.

Can fat dissolving treatment replace liposuction?

For small, localised fat deposits, fat dissolving treatment can achieve comparable results non-surgically. However, for larger volumes of fat or areas requiring significant contouring, surgical liposuction remains more effective and is a single procedure rather than a course. We’ll be honest with you at consultation about whether fat dissolving is the right tool for your specific concern.

Can I exercise after fat dissolving injections?

We recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for 48–72 hours after treatment. Gentle walking is fine and may even support lymphatic drainage of the treated area. Once initial swelling and tenderness have subsided, normal exercise can resume. Regular activity supports the body’s elimination of the destroyed fat cells.

Will fat dissolving treatment help with cellulite?

Fat dissolving injections target subcutaneous fat cells but do not directly address cellulite, which involves fibrous connective tissue bands beneath the skin. Some improvement in skin texture may be noted as the area slims, but fat dissolving should not be booked specifically as a cellulite treatment. We’ll discuss alternative or complementary options for cellulite during your consultation.

How much does fat dissolving treatment cost in London?

Pricing depends on the area being treated and the number of sessions required. We’ll provide a full cost estimate at consultation once we’ve assessed the area and agreed on a treatment plan. We’d always caution against choosing a provider based on cost alone — the safety and efficacy of fat dissolving treatment are directly tied to practitioner skill and product quality.