Fat-dissolving injections

Fat-dissolving injections (Meso Fat) for double chin, cheeks, upper arms and abdomen, by a doctor

Deoxycholate-based fat-dissolving agents break down the walls of fat cells at the injection site. Suited to small pockets of fat such as a double chin, full cheeks, upper arms and lower abdomen. 2–4 sessions 4–6 weeks apart, with 3–7 days of swelling.

MasseterChinFat cells
Illustration: deoxycholate breaks down fat cell walls beneath the skin, and the body clears the ruptured cells through the lymphatic system

What fat-dissolving injections are and how they work

Fat-dissolving injections (Meso Fat) deliver a fat-dissolving agent directly into the fat layer beneath the skin. The main agent is deoxycholic acid, a bile acid the body itself produces to digest fat. Injected into the fat layer, it ruptures the walls of fat cells, and the destroyed cells do not return. The body takes 4–6 weeks to clear the debris through the lymphatic system and liver, so the fat in the area thins gradually. Thai FDA-registered products the doctor may choose include Kybella (Belkyra), phosphatidylcholine/deoxycholate (PPC) formulas and lipolytic formulas with added agents such as L-carnitine and caffeine. The doctor selects according to the thickness of the fat and the area, and opens the vial in front of you before injecting.

Treatable areas and what to expect

AreaSuitsTypical sessionsNotes
Double chin (submental)Fat under the chin thick enough to blur the jawline, with skin still firm2–4 sessionsVisible swelling for 3–7 days. Results clear after the second session
Full cheeks / lower cheek fatA round face caused by fat, not the jaw muscle2–3 sessionsSmall amounts, with care to avoid asymmetry
JowlsFat sagging at the sides of the chin2–3 sessionsIf skin laxity is also present, HIFU or RF should be added
Upper armsFat at the back of the upper arms3–4 sessionsA larger area, needing more product
Lower abdomen / waistA fat layer no thicker than 3–4 cm that can be pinched3–4 sessionsFor small pockets only. Larger areas should consider Cool Shape or liposuction
Knees / inner thighsSmall pockets that exercise does not shift2–3 sessionsModest reduction; keep expectations realistic

On the day

Assessment and markingThe doctor pinches the fat layer to distinguish it from loose skin, measures, marks a grid of injection points 1 cm apart and takes before photographs
Numbing cream or injected anaestheticNumbing cream for 20–30 minutes. In some cases lidocaine is mixed into the product to reduce stinging
Injection by the doctorDeep into the fat layer only, never shallow enough to reach the skin, to reduce the chance of ulceration. One double chin session uses 2–4 ml and takes 15–20 minutes
Cold compress and homeA burning sensation and swelling develop within 30 minutes. Apply cold compresses intermittently on the first day

After injection

Days 0–3Marked swelling and tendernessThe area is swollen and slightly firm, and a double chin may temporarily look larger than before. This inflammation is necessary for the fat to break down. A scarf or high collar helps
Days 4–7Swelling eases, numbness beginsNumbness or tightness in the area can last 2–4 weeks and is temporary
Weeks 4–6Fat thinsThe fat layer feels thinner to the touch. Second session booked
Months 3–4Clear result after the courseComparison photographs. Dissolved fat does not return, but the remaining cells can enlarge if you gain weight
Who it does not suit, and side effects to know about

Not for people who are significantly overweight (BMI above 30), who should lose weight or consider device-based fat reduction first; very loose skin, because once the fat is gone the skin may sag further; an infection or wound at the injection site; pregnancy or breastfeeding; severe liver or kidney disease; or swallowing or nerve problems in the neck. Common side effects are swelling, bruising, numbness and temporary firm lumps. Rare ones are a temporary drooping mouth corner from the product spreading to the marginal mandibular nerve (usually improving within 4–6 weeks) and skin ulceration if injected too superficially. A doctor who understands the nerve anatomy and injects in the correct layer reduces these risks

Related services

Prices

Fat-dissolving injections, double chin, 1 session
Product by the amount used, numbing cream, cold compress
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Fat-dissolving injections, both cheeks, 1 session
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Fat-dissolving injections, body, per 10 ml
Upper arms, abdomen, thighs
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do fat-dissolving injections differ from Cool Shape?

Injections suit small areas and the face, where the amount can be adjusted precisely. Cool Shape suits larger areas that fit into the applicator, such as the abdomen, waist and thighs. Both reduce fat by around 20–25% per session in the treated area.

Will the fat come back?

Destroyed cells do not return, but the remaining fat cells can enlarge if you gain weight, so weight control is still needed.

Can I go straight back to work?

Yes, but a double chin swells noticeably for 3–7 days. Many people choose a Friday or a period without important engagements. Cheeks swell less than the chin.

How many sessions?

Usually 2–4, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Thinner fat may need only 2. The doctor assesses after seeing the result of the first session.

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