Fat Dissolving Injections (deoxycholic acid — also known by its brand name Belkyra® in Canada) target small, stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise — most commonly under the chin (submental fullness or ‘double chin’), and also under the jaw, jowls, and smaller body areas. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps break down dietary fat; injected into fat, it breaks down fat cells permanently. The body then gradually clears the destroyed cells over weeks to months.
Benefits
- Permanently destroys fat cells in the treated area
- Non-surgical — no incisions, no general anaesthetic
- Targets small stubborn pockets (e.g., double chin) that diet can’t shift
- Minimal downtime — most people return to normal activity quickly
- Can be used alone or alongside other treatments (e.g., skin tightening)
Who it’s for
Adults with a small, defined pocket of submental fat or another small local fat area that has been stable, with reasonably good skin elasticity. It is not a weight-loss treatment, and it doesn’t work for loose skin or large fat areas. Not suitable during pregnancy; people with swallowing problems, an active infection in the area, or certain neck conditions need screening first.
What to expect
We start with a consultation and assessment of the area ($50; credited towards treatment if you proceed). Treatment itself takes about 20–30 minutes: after numbing, a grid of small injections is placed into the fat pocket. You can expect swelling for several days (particularly under the chin — plan social events accordingly), bruising, and tenderness. Sessions are spaced at least 4 weeks apart, and most patients need 2–4 sessions.
Recommended sessions
Most patients need 2–4 sessions, spaced at least 4 weeks apart.
Before & after your visit
- Before: Continue any prescribed medications unless told otherwise; avoid caffeine and nicotine (if possible) before the session. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that lets us access the treatment area.
- After: Expect swelling for a few days; a snug-fitting garment may be recommended in some cases. Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours.
- Downtime: Minimal, but expect visible swelling for 2–7 days.
- Results: Gradual improvement over 4–6 weeks as the body clears the destroyed cells; results improve across the series.
- Duration: Permanent for the destroyed cells — they do not return. Remaining fat cells can still grow if weight is gained.
- Risks: Temporary swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, or firmness in the area; rarely, nerve injury, uneven results, or skin ulceration. These are discussed in detail at consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
The numbing helps; the injections feel like small pinches. Swelling and soreness afterwards are expected and managed with simple measures.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients need 2–4 sessions, at least 4 weeks apart — the exact number depends on the size of the pocket and your goal.
Can it be used anywhere on the body?
It’s licensed for submental (under-chin) fat in Canada; other small areas are used off-label and assessed individually.
Is the consultation fee credited?
Yes — the $50 consultation fee is credited towards treatment if you proceed.
What happens if I gain weight later?
Destroyed fat cells are gone permanently, but remaining fat cells can enlarge with weight gain; maintaining a stable weight protects your result.
Price & booking
Consultation: $50. Treatment from $600 per vial.