What Are Fat-Dissolving Injections? An Overview of Their Effects and Procedures
Basic Knowledge of Fat-Dissolving Injections
Fat-dissolving injections contain surfactants such as deoxycholic acid, phosphatidylcholine, and saponin.
These substances break down the membranes of fat cells, allowing fat to dissolve.
Facial-Specific Benefits and Purposes
When choosing a fat-dissolving injection for the face, it is important to select one with minimal swelling and pain.
Common options include:
Deoxycholic acid-based injections such as Kabelline, Fat X Core, and BNLS
Saponin-based injections such as Sansam injections (ginseng-derived)
Phosphatidylcholine is rarely used for facial treatments due to its strong inflammatory response.
The Importance of Fat-Dissolving Injections as a Treatment
If excess volume is a concern, only fat and muscle can be reduced.
Muscles can be shrunk using Botox.
Fat can be reduced through:
Fat-dissolving injections
Liposuction surgery
Devices that use heat or cooling
Fat-dissolving injections serve as an essential option for volume reduction without surgery.
Popular Fat-Dissolving Injection: BNLS
Features and Ingredients of BNLS
Main ingredient: Deoxycholic acid
Minimal swelling and no downtime, making it easy to undergo treatment.
However, due to the low concentration of deoxycholic acid, multiple sessions are required.
Differences from Other Injections
BNLS is much milder compared to other fat-dissolving injections.
What to Know Before Treatment
Consultation Process
Assess facial volume – Determine which areas require fat reduction.
Check for skin tightening needs – Decide if additional lifting treatments are necessary.
Finalize treatment details – Discuss the required amount of fat-dissolving injection and any combination treatments.
Perform the injection based on the design plan – Treatment is completed once the injection is administered.
Required Sessions and Cost
Most cases require 2-3 sessions for optimal results.
Confirm the total cost for all sessions in advance.
Selecting Injection Sites and Key Considerations
Fat-dissolving injections are effective for subcutaneous fat.
If buccal fat removal is necessary, surgery is required to achieve the desired facial contour.
Procedure Details and Additional Information
Preparation and Precautions on the Treatment Day
In most cases, the procedure can be performed immediately after consultation.
Have a clear image of the desired result before heading to the clinic.
Swelling may occur after injection, so bringing a mask is recommended.
Pre-Procedure Anesthesia
Not necessary for this procedure.
Treatment Duration and Injection Method
Takes approximately 1 minute.
Uses a needle to create an entry point, followed by a cannula for injection.
Managing Downtime and Recovery
Dealing with Swelling and Bruising
Apply a cold compress to minimize swelling and bruising.
Impact on Daily Life the Next Day
Swelling may occur, so wearing a mask can help conceal it.
Post-Treatment Care During Downtime
Massaging the treated area can improve results.
Yoshiko Kuno