Body
Fat dissolving injections
A clinic-only, injection-based way to address small fat pockets that don't shift with exercise.
What it is
Fat dissolving uses a deoxycholic-acid-based injectable that disrupts the membrane of fat cells in a localised area. The body then clears the broken-down fat through its lymphatic system over the following weeks. The result is a permanent reduction in the number of fat cells in the treated area — provided you don't significantly gain weight afterwards.
This is not a weight-loss treatment. It is a body-contouring treatment for small, defined pockets — the double chin, the bra-line, the inner thigh, the lower abdomen. We will tell you honestly if what you're describing isn't best served by this.
What it treats
- Submental fat ("double chin")
- Upper-arm fat
- Bra-line and back rolls
- Lower-abdomen fat pocket
- Inner and outer thigh pockets
- Flanks ("love handles")
How it works
- 1 We assess the area in your consultation. If you have more than 2–3 cm of pinchable fat, fat dissolving is appropriate; if less, results will be subtle.
- 2 A grid of small injections is placed across the area.
- 3 Two to four sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart.
- 4 Visible reduction builds over each session and is final 6–8 weeks after the last.
What to expect
Appointment time
30–45 minutes per session
Downtime
Significant swelling, tenderness and possible bruising for 5–10 days, particularly for the chin. Some clients describe a hot, throbbing sensation in the first 48 hours.
How it feels
Stinging during injection. Tenderness afterwards.
Aftercare
No vigorous exercise for 48 hours. Compression where possible. Drink plenty of water to support lymphatic clearance.
Results visible
4–6 weeks after each session
How long they last
Permanent — provided weight is maintained
Is this right for you?
A good fit if
- You have a defined, pinchable fat pocket that hasn't responded to exercise
- You're at or near a stable, healthy weight
- You can take 5–10 days of swelling without disrupting your life
Not the right time if
- You are seeking weight loss (this is the wrong treatment — see our weight-loss programme)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have an autoimmune or bleeding disorder without specialist clearance
- You're very lean and have less than 2 cm of pinchable fat in the area
Price
Small area (chin, arms) from £250 per session · Medium area (flanks, thighs) from £350 per session
Final price confirmed in your complimentary consultation. Cancellation policy.
FAQs
How many sessions do I need?
Two to four sessions for most areas. The chin often responds well to 2–3; larger areas like flanks or thighs typically need 3–4.
Is the result permanent?
The fat cells that are dissolved do not come back. But the remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain significant weight. The treatment works best when you're at a stable weight.
How bad is the swelling?
Honest answer: the chin can swell significantly for 3–5 days — clients describe it as 'a small frog under the chin.' Larger body areas swell less visibly but feel tender. Plan ahead if you have public events.
Can it replace liposuction?
For small areas, often yes. For larger volumes, no — liposuction removes more in a single session and shapes the area surgically. We discuss whether you might be better served by a surgical consultation.
Related treatments
Ready when you are
Start with a complimentary consultation.
Thirty minutes, in person, at Knightsbridge or Harley Street. We'll listen, look, and tell you honestly what we'd recommend — and what we wouldn't.