Fat dissolving injections are a popular non-surgical aesthetic treatment designed to reduce small, localised pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. This treatment is commonly chosen by individuals who are close to their ideal weight but want to improve definition and contour in specific areas of the face or body without surgery.
Often referred to as injection lipolysis, fat dissolving injections work by targeting fat cells directly beneath the skin. Over time, the body naturally processes and removes the treated fat, resulting in a more contoured appearance. This treatment is not a weight-loss solution and is most effective when used for targeted fat reduction rather than overall body fat.
What are fat dissolving injections?
Fat dissolving injections involve injecting a solution into localised fat deposits. The solution disrupts fat cells, causing them to break down. Once destroyed, these fat cells are gradually eliminated by the body’s natural metabolic processes.
Because this process takes time, results develop gradually over several weeks. Most patients require a course of treatments to achieve their desired outcome.
Who are fat dissolving injections suitable for?
Fat dissolving injections are suitable for individuals who:
- Are close to their stable or target weight
- Have small, pinchable areas of fat
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Want a non-surgical treatment option
- Have realistic expectations about gradual results
They are not suitable for:
- General weight loss
- Loose or sagging skin without fat
- Large volumes of fat
- Individuals seeking instant results
A full consultation is essential to assess suitability and discuss expected outcomes.
Areas fat dissolving injections can treat
Fat dissolving injections can be used in a range of areas where localised fat is present. Common treatment areas include:
Face and neck
- Double chin (submental fat)
- Jawline soft fullness
Body
- Abdomen (upper and lower)
- Flanks (love handles)
- Upper arms
- Bra or back rolls
- Inner thighs
- Banana roll (under the buttocks)
Each area is assessed individually to ensure the fat is suitable for injection lipolysis.
How fat dissolving injections work
The active ingredients used in UK-approved fat dissolving products are designed to break down fat cell membranes when injected into the correct tissue layer. Once the fat cells are disrupted, the body gradually removes them through natural metabolic processes.
Following treatment, swelling, firmness, tenderness, and redness are common and expected. These effects are part of the fat breakdown process and usually settle over time.
How many sessions are needed?
Fat dissolving injections are usually performed as a course of treatments rather than a single session.
- Most patients require 2 to 4 sessions
- Treatments are spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart
- Larger or denser areas may require additional sessions
Results continue to improve over several weeks following each session.
Nose slimming injections
Nose slimming injections are a specialised treatment and only suitable in select cases. Fat dissolving injections can be used to slim the nose only when excess soft tissue or fatty deposits are contributing to a wider appearance.
When nose slimming injections may be suitable
- Soft tissue fullness around the nostrils (alar base)
- Mild nasal width caused by fatty tissue
When fat dissolving is not suitable for the nose
- Bone or cartilage structure
- Prominent nasal humps
- Structural nose shape concerns
Nose slimming with fat dissolving injections requires advanced anatomical knowledge and careful patient selection. It is not a replacement for surgical rhinoplasty.
Benefits of fat dissolving injections
- Non-surgical treatment
- Targets specific problem areas
- No general anaesthetic
- Gradual, natural-looking results
- Can be combined with other aesthetic treatments (where appropriate)
Frequently asked questions
Are fat dissolving injections permanent?
Once fat cells are destroyed, they do not regenerate. However, remaining fat cells can still expand if weight is gained.
How long does swelling last after treatment?
Swelling can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the area treated and individual response.
Is fat dissolving painful?
Discomfort varies. Most patients experience swelling and tenderness rather than significant pain.
When will I see results?
Results develop gradually over several weeks as the body processes the treated fat.
Is there downtime after fat dissolving injections?
Most patients can return to normal daily activities quickly, although visible swelling may persist temporarily.
Can fat dissolving be combined with other treatments?
Yes, fat dissolving injections can sometimes be combined with other aesthetic treatments as part of a tailored treatment plan.
Fat dissolving injections – summary
Fat dissolving injections are an effective non-surgical option for reducing small, localised fat deposits in carefully selected patients. By breaking down fat cells and allowing the body to remove them naturally, this treatment offers gradual contouring without surgery.
When delivered by experienced practitioners, fat dissolving injections can be a valuable part of a comprehensive aesthetic treatment plan, helping patients achieve improved definition and confidence in targeted areas.