deoxycholic acid into the layer of fat surrounding the jawline. It works by destroying the fat cells that are then naturally metabolized and broken down by the body. Usually, 2 to 4 sessions are required, carried out 4 to 6 weeks apart to produce results gradually. It is a fast and non-surgical procedure that has limited downtime; one needs to make sure to choose an experienced professional so that the procedure is safe as well as effective.
How It Works
Fat-dissolving injections include administration of deoxycholic acid, an endogenous bile acid present inside the human body that degrades, hence facilitating the absorption of eaten fats. The treatment consists of the precise injection of synthetic deoxycholic acid into the sites of fat accumulation along the jawline. Thereafter, the deoxycholic acid destroys the membrane of the fat cell, hence leading to cell death or apoptosis. The destroyed fat cells spill their contents and then are metabolized and removed through the lymphatic system. Unlike with ordinary fat reduction, the number of fat cells is permanently reduced and they lose their ability to store and build up fat again, therefore offering long-lasting results.
A physician will mark the sites to receive injections. Then, using a fine needle, the solution will symmetrically be distributed throughout the targeted fat tissue. Each treatment will be tailored to individual needs, depending on how much fat is in the jawline area and the result the patient would like to see. In clinical studies, 2 to 4 treatment sessions were usually adequate; however, for more resistant fat, it may take 6 or more sessions. Treatment intervals are usually 4 to 6 weeks to allow full metabolic processing.
Benefits
have gained much popularity among all other nonsurgical cosmetic treatments due to the fact that they are performed in a non-invasive way and take a minimal time to recover. Traditional jawline liposuction does not require anesthetics or incisions, reducing the risk of infections and complications associated with surgeries. This presents an appropriate alternative for individuals who wish to enhance the appearance of their jawlines without undergoing the pain and burden of recovery associated with surgery.
The other important advantage is seen in the improvements that occur gradually and look natural. Because fat breakdown is a process that takes weeks to ensue, it only makes the changes to the jawline very subtle and unable to cause sudden facial changes or dramatic ones. This gradual effect helps to maintain a natural aesthetic. Also, in people with good skin elasticity, a gradual reduction in fat cuts down on the occurrence of sagging; it adjusts and tightens around the new contour. Clinical data reveal that 79% of patients report being satisfied with the appearance of their jawline after fat dissolving injections, looking more youthful, refreshed, and confident.
It can also be done on an as-needed basis, where only the sections of fat tissue are treated without affecting any other surrounding tissues. The precision involved makes it a very promising option for individuals who suffer at the hands of stubborn double chin fat despite their strict diet and regimen of exercise. Procedures take 15 to 30 minutes, which makes them suitable for individuals with tight and busy schedules but who need efficient cosmetic enhancement.
Ideal Candidates
Fat-dissolving injections are best suited for healthy individuals with mild to moderate fat accumulation around the jawline. In general, the most suitable candidates have a normal Body Mass Index but with fat deposits in certain areas that show up in the facial profile. Some people, no matter how much control they put into their diet and exercise, still tend to retain fat around the chin or jawline; hence, fat dissolving injections work just fine in such cases.
Other considerations are . Patients with taut elastic skin will see more favorable results, as the skin will more naturally adapt to new contours once fat is removed. Those patients with loose or sagging skin are sometimes recommended for additional treatments to achieve ideal results: these include radiofrequency skin tightening or Ultherapy. A detailed facial analysis should be carried out, and the physician will provide options that are customized according to age, skin quality, and facial anatomy.
This is a treatment contraindicated for everyone. Pregnant or lactating, highly allergic, and cases of autoimmune disorders are cautioned against fat-dissolving injections. Active infections or skin conditions—severe acne or eczema—should preferably be treated before the injections. Psychological problems or unrealistic expectations are a call for careful consideration of the treatment to ensure preparedness, both physical and emotional.
Procedure Steps
Facial fat dissolving injections are always preceded by a to ascertain the individual’s jawline fat distribution and eligibility for the procedure. Photographs can be taken to record pre-treatment appearance for post-treatment comparison. Then, the doctor marks the injection sites to place accurately and symmetrically the deoxycholic acid solution.
To minimize discomfort, the area of injection may first be anaesthetized with a topical anesthetic cream or an ice pack. The procedure involves using a fine needle to inject deoxycholic acid into subcutaneous fat. Dosage and spacing of the injection points have to be calculated with great care in order to treat the entire fat pocket while at the same time minimizing the risk of possible damage to the muscles or nerves in the neighborhood.
The patients can also be informed that for the next 24 hours after the procedure, they should avoid strenuous activity or massaging the area, allowing the solution to take its time to settle. At the site of injection, swelling, redness, and tenderness might occur but generally resolve a few days later. Ice packs or over-the-counter pain relief may be recommended for ease of discomfort.
Recovery Time
The recovery period after injections for fat dissolution is relatively short, and most patients return to their routine activities right away. However, not taking some precautions may affect optimization in healing. Most develop swelling and bruising, which peaks in 24 to 48 hours following the treatment. This is caused by an inflammatory response where deoxycholic acid causes degradation of fat cells, something natural in the process.
Patients may experience some tenderness or numbness around the injection sites, which usually settles within one week. The swelling can be improved by the periodic application of ice and the elevation of the head. It is very important that the patient avoid high-intensity exercises, saunas, and heat exposure during the days that follow the procedure, to avoid accentuation of the inflammatory process.
Most side effects disappear in a few days; complete healing takes about 1 or 2 weeks for patients experiencing swelling. Patients should not press or massage the treated area during this period. In the presence of persistent pain, increased swelling, or other unusual symptoms, consultation with the physician for evaluation and advice is very important.
Possible Risks
While fat dissolving injections are generally safe, like any other medical treatment, it carries some risks and possible complications. Adverse effects commonly experienced are mild swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, and firmness at the injection site. Symptoms often improve within a week or two following treatment. Rare symptoms include prolonged discomfort or firming of the tissue, which takes longer to settle.
Adverse effects may include nerve damage, although rare; this is particularly possible if the injection is not done correctly, which can lead to temporary weakening of facial muscles or asymmetry. Fortunately, these usually are reversible, but they do underscore the need for seeking the right and experienced provider. In extremely rare instances, complications such as infection, allergic reaction, or skin necrosis can occur. These risks can be minimized if the patients seek treatments only from certified and experienced medical professionals, disclosing beforehand the relevant medical history or any kind of allergy.
is imperative. Over-injection or incorrectly placed deoxycholic acid may result in complications, including difficulty swallowing or numbness of the lower lip. While these complications are rare, they often present challenges when trying to manage them. Therefore, patients need to understand the risk and find a responsible clinic with experts for safe and effective treatment.
Expected Results
Results from fat-dissolving injections are not instantaneous. Early improvements typically appear about 2 to 4 weeks after the treatment, once the body has digested the degraded fat. The jawline takes better shape with every session; most patients find substantial improvement with 2 to 4 treatments. In cases of severe fat deposition, extra sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired result.
Ideally, once fat cells are destroyed, they do not regenerate, and the results can be very long-lasting. Ideally, patients with stable weight and a healthy lifestyle could expect these effects for many years. Clinical research has demonstrated that more than 79% of patients were satisfied with improvements in the contours of the jawline, describing a younger and more refined facial profile. These improvements are durable, resistant even to minor weight fluctuations, and lasting.
Relevant to note that fat-dissolving injections do not cure ; as one gets older, the skin becomes loose, and elderly patients or those with a loss of elasticity may be advised of other treatments that will keep their contour tight, such as Ultherapy or radiofrequency. Thus, a well-planned overall facial rejuvenation approach by an experienced provider is key to optimal results that are long-lasting.
