Fat dissolving treatments, also known as injectable lipolysis or non-surgical fat reduction, involve injecting specific substances into areas of the body to break down and dissolve fat cells. These treatments are designed to target localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. Here are some key points about fat dissolving treatments:
Common Substances Used
Deoxycholic Acid:
- Brand Example: Kybella (known as Belkyra outside the U.S.)
- Mechanism: Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring bile acid that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into fat tissue, it destroys fat cells, which are then naturally metabolized by the body.
Phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and Deoxycholate (DC):
- Brand Examples: Lipodissolve, Aqualyx
- Mechanism: These compounds work together to break down fat cells. PPC helps to emulsify fat, while DC enhances the fat-dissolving process.
Procedure
- Consultation: A detailed consultation with a qualified healthcare provider to assess the treatment area, discuss goals, and evaluate suitability.
- Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned, and a numbing agent may be applied to minimize discomfort.
- Injection: The fat-dissolving solution is injected into the targeted fat deposits using fine needles. Multiple injections may be needed, depending on the size of the area being treated.
- Post-Treatment: Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and redness at the injection sites. These side effects typically resolve within a few days to weeks.
Treatment Areas
- Double Chin: One of the most common areas treated with fat-dissolving injections.
- Abdomen: Targeting small pockets of abdominal fat.
- Thighs: Reducing fat on the inner and outer thighs.
- Upper Arms: Addressing fat deposits on the upper arms.
- Flanks and Love Handles: Reducing fat on the sides of the waist.
- Back: Targeting fat deposits on the upper and lower back.
Benefits
- Non-Surgical: Provides an alternative to surgical procedures like liposuction with minimal downtime.
- Targeted Fat Reduction: Specifically targets and reduces localized fat deposits.
- Gradual Results: Results develop gradually over several weeks to months as the body metabolizes the dissolved fat.
Risks and Side Effects
- Common Side Effects: Swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, and discomfort at the injection sites.
- Less Common Risks: Numbness, hardness or firmness in the treated area, asymmetry, and in rare cases, nerve injury or infection.
- Temporary Effects: Most side effects are temporary and resolve within a few days to weeks.
Recovery
- Minimal Downtime: Patients can typically resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
- Post-Treatment Care: Patients may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise and excessive heat or sun exposure for a few days after treatment.
Effectiveness
- Results: Noticeable results can be seen after a few weeks, with optimal results typically visible after several treatments.
- Number of Sessions: Multiple treatment sessions (usually 2-4) spaced a few weeks apart are often required to achieve the desired outcome.
- Longevity: Results are generally long-lasting, provided the patient maintains a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Considerations
- Suitability: Not everyone is a candidate for fat-dissolving injections. Ideal candidates are those with small to moderate localized fat deposits and good skin elasticity.
- Professional Expertise: It’s important to have the treatment performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner to minimize risks and achieve the best results.
Fat dissolving treatments can be an effective option for individuals seeking non-surgical fat reduction. As with any cosmetic procedure, thorough consultation with a qualified healthcare provider is essential to discuss goals, expectations, and potential risks.
