Searching for a way to target stubborn fat deposits and sculpt your physique? Fat-dissolving injections might be the perfect solution. This guide will help you learn about the different types of fat-dissolving injections, how they work, and how they might be beneficial in your body contouring journey.
What are fat dissolving injections?
Fat-dissolving injections contain specialized compounds, such as deoxycholic acid, which kickstart lipolysis to destroy and eliminate small pockets of unwanted fat. Here’s a closer look at how they work:
How do fat dissolving injections work?
These injections work by breaking down the protective membranes of fat cells, causing them to break apart. Then, they’re naturally metabolized and flushed out through your body’s lymphatic system. Fat loss takes place over the course of several weeks. After a series of two to four injection sessions, your chosen treatment area should look noticeably more sculpted.
What are the limitations of fat dissolving injections?
FDA-approved injections like Kybella can dissolve small pockets of fat, but they’re not a full-body weight-loss solution. They’re designed to contour and fine-tune targeted areas, not help you shed significant body fat.
Side effects are generally mild and include swelling, bruising, and discomfort at the injection site. Some people experience localized numbness or develop hard nodules beneath the skin. However, these effects are temporary and should subside within a few days to several weeks.
Who’s a good candidate for fat dissolving injections?
In order to reap the best results from fat-dissolving injections, you should:
- Be close to your ideal body weight
- Have firm, elastic skin
- Be in good general health
- Want to avoid surgery
Related: What Are Lipo Injections and How Do They Work?
What types of fat dissolving injections are available?
There are plenty of name-brand fat-dissolving injections on the market. Here’s how they stack up against one another:

Kybella
Kybella is the only FDA-approved fat-dissolving injection to address submental fat (double chin) in the US, but many prescribing physicians use it to dissolve fat in other parts of the face and body.
Some studies suggest that Kybella may also stimulate fibroblasts, helping rebuild collagen in the treatment area.
PCDC
PCDC injections, frequently marketed under the brand name Celluform, contain a blend of phosphatidylcholine and deoxycholate that works like the active ingredient in Kybella to aid in fat removal. Although it isn’t FDA-approved for body contouring, it’s frequently used off-label to eliminate unwanted fat.
The classic formulation is designed to eliminate body fat, and Celluform+ targets facial fat. PCDC is considered more potent than Kybella and may be more effective for larger treatment areas.
Other alternatives
You’ll find several alternatives to Kybella and PCDC at wellness clinics in the US and abroad. Aqualyx, Desobody, and Desoface feature the same active ingredient as Kybella, deoxycholic acid. These are popular treatments for excess fat in the thighs, abdomen, hips, arms, and chin, especially in the UK and the EU.
Related: How Much Is Radiesse? Average Costs and Treatment Options
What are the benefits of fat dissolving injections?
There’s a lot to love about these fat-zapping shots. Let’s explore the many benefits of fat-dissolving injections:
Non-surgical
Unlike surgical procedures to remove unwanted body fat, non-invasive fat-dissolving injections require minimal downtime and pose a lower risk of adverse reactions. In fact, most people return to their regular activities within 24 to 48 hours.
Targeted fat reduction
Diet and exercise are great for your overall health, but these habits can’t target specific fat deposits to help you sculpt your face and body. But fat-dissolving injections can do just that, contouring stubborn treatment areas like:
- Double chin
- Jawline
- Upper arms
- Abdomen
- Inner thighs
- Bra bulge
Convenience and effectiveness
Depending on the treatment area, appointments typically last between 20 and 45 minutes, perfect for a lunchtime pick-me-up. Most clients begin to see the cosmetic effects within a few weeks and achieve optimal results after two to four sessions.
Permanent, natural-looking results
Lipolytic injections destroy fat cells, and once they’ve been eliminated, they won’t return (as long as your weight remains relatively stable). Additionally, the fat reduction process occurs gradually, allowing for a subtle and natural-looking aesthetic change.
Customizable treatments
Fat-dissolving injections can be tailored to your unique anatomy, goals, and comfort level. Your provider will customize the number of injections, solution amount, and appointment frequency to help you achieve your desired effects.
Improved body contour
Over time, these fat-reduction shots can refine facial and body contours for a more defined jawline, toned arms, or a snatched waist. Consider combining these injections with other non-invasive procedures like CoolSculpting to maximize your results.
Related: How Long Does Liquid BBL Last?
Ready to elevate your health and wellbeing? Join us at The Wellness Club!
The Wellness Club offers a range of body contouring and medical weight-loss solutions, including fat-dissolving injections, liquid lipo shots, and semaglutide, to help you achieve your goals under the care of a trusted medical professional. Ready to get started? Book a consultation today!

