Are Fat Dissolving Treatments Safe?

If you have stubborn, localised fat deposits that you would like to eliminate in your chin, hips or knees you may be wondering if the popular fat-dissolving treatments in Bournemouth and the rest of the world are a safe non-surgical way of recontouring your face and body. 

Are Fat Dissolving Treatments Safe?

The good news is yes, after being used for more than 2 decades in many countries around the world fat-dissolving treatments are generally considered safe when administered by a trained professional, but like all treatments, there are potential side effects and complications to be aware of. 

It’s worth noting at this point that all serious complications associated with fat-dissolving treatments have been given by non-trained individuals.

What Are Fat-Dissolving Injections?

Fat-dissolving injections, sometimes referred to as lipolytic injections or injectable lipolysis, are non-surgical treatments that involve injecting a solution that contains deoxycholic acid (a bile acid that aids fat digestion) into localised fat deposits to break down and dissolve the fat cells. 

The broken-down fat cells are then metabolised by the body and excreted naturally. These injections are designed to target and reduce small, stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.

There are several products on the market designed for this purpose. Examples include Belkyra, (known as Kybella in the USA and Canada) is FDA-approved and was recently licensed by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) for use in the UK.

Aqualyx has been used in Europe and the UK since 2009. It has CE approval for use in the UK meaning it meets the health and safety standards required by the European Union.

Why Get Non-surgical Fat Removal Using Aqualyx or Belkyra?

Non-surgical fat removal treatments are gaining popularity because they have numerous benefits over traditional surgical procedures. They typically don’t require general anaesthesia, ensuring fewer associated risks. 

Notably, these treatments are minimally invasive, meaning no scars and reduced chances of complications. 

Patients appreciate the minimal downtime, often returning to daily activities shortly after the procedure. The procedures, being quick and convenient, often fit seamlessly into busy schedules. 

The results from non-surgical methods appear gradually, offering a more natural transition in appearance. 

Fat-Dissolving Injection Safety

Scientific studies and clinical experience demonstrate that fat-dissolving treatments provide a safe and effective means of reducing localised fat deposits (you can read some of them on the Aqualyx website). 

They have been used around the world since 2009 and are generally viewed as safe when administered by a trained professional, but there are potential side effects and complications to be aware of.

What Are the Side Effects and Complications of Fat Dissolving Injections?

Minimal side effects have been reported globally since its introduction, but patients can expect a little skin irritation, swelling, redness, bruising and oedema, which will ease after a few days. Side effects can include: 

• Pain and discomfort: Patients may experience mild pain, tenderness, or discomfort at the injection site immediately after the procedure. This discomfort can last for several days.
• Swelling: Swelling and inflammation at the injection site are common side effects and can last for a few days to a few weeks.
• Bruising: Bruising is another common side effect of fat-dissolving injections. It can occur at the injection site and may take a week or more to fade.
• Redness and warmth: Some patients may experience redness and warmth at the injection site, which usually resolves within a few days.
• Numbness or tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling in the treated area can occur temporarily but typically resolve on their own.
• Itching: Itching at the injection site is possible and may last for a few days.

There is some risk of infection and other rare side effects, but as with any medical treatment, these only tend to occur when the treatment is administered by an untrained person.

Who Shouldn’t Get Aqualyx Treatments?

Fat-dissolving treatments are NOT suitable for

• Under 18’s
• Over 60’s
• Pregnant or lactating women – the risks to unborn babies and whilst breastfeeding are unknown.
• Those with a pathological condition
• Individuals with an allergy to deoxycholic acid or any of the ingredients
• Overweight patients

You should inform your healthcare provider if you’ve had/have

• Prior surgeries or cosmetic procedures on your neck, chin, or face, or if you intend to have such procedures in the future.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• A thyroid disorder.
• Enlarged lymph glands in your neck.
• A bleeding or blood clotting disorder, such as haemophilia.

How To Minimise The Risks Of Fat Dissolving Treatments?

Select A Reputable Injector

The best way to avoid complications of fat-dissolving treatments that enhance your features is to look for a reputable practitioner with plenty of experience. 

All adverse reactions to Aqualyx which have been reported have been injected by non-trained injectors.

As the risk of complications increases when they are injected by non-trained health professionals we can’t emphasise enough the importance of getting the procedure done by a trained, experienced healthcare professional to minimise risks. You can find out more about our Pharmacist and Aesthetician, Reem.

Have A Consultation

When considering fat-dissolving injections, it’s essential to kickstart your journey with an initial consultation. During this consultation, you can clearly outline your objectives. A reputable practitioner will provide honest insights into the achievable outcomes, leaving you with a comprehensive understanding of what to anticipate.

Address Your Concerns

If you have concerns regarding the procedure’s safety and associated risks, a proficient practitioner will offer reassurance and guidance on necessary aftercare.

Follow Post Treatment Advice

Fat-dissolving injections typically entail minimal side effects. To ensure the best results, it’s advisable to rest adequately, maintain cleanliness in the treatment area, refrain from applying makeup on the first day and avoid touching the area.

Picking a Safe and Reputable Practitioner in Bournemouth

Ensuring your comfort and safety with the practitioner administering your fat-dissolving treatment is paramount. Therefore, consider the following factors when selecting a practitioner or clinic in Bournemouth:

• They should possess medical qualifications, such as being a pharmacist, doctor, nurse, or dentist.

• The clinic should hold accreditation from a reputable accrediting body, like the General Medical Council, the Royal College of Surgeons, or a recognised college of aesthetic medicine.

• Prior to the treatment, they should offer you a consultation to discuss your goals and expectations.

• They should provide honest assessments regarding the potential outcomes achievable solely with fat-dissolving treatment and may propose alternative or supplementary treatments when necessary.

• Look for positive testimonials from satisfied clients as an indicator of their competence.

• Ensure they offer a follow-up check-in, typically scheduled two weeks post-treatment, to verify your satisfaction with the results.

At Smile Stories located in Bournemouth, our practitioners collaborate closely with clients to help them attain a look that boosts their happiness and confidence. Our fat-dissolving injections are exclusively administered by qualified medical professionals, and you can anticipate a welcoming, confidential experience within our charming Bournemouth clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fat-Dissolving Injections

Do Fat Dissolving Injections, Hurt?

As with all treatments that involve needles, the injections may sting for a few seconds, but generally, pain is minimal. We also always offer the option of applying a topical numbing agent to the treatment area to minimise discomfort.  

Is Aqualyx FDA-approved?

Aqualyx has been approved for use in the UK and in Europe.   However, it hasn’t been approved by the FDA (The Food and Drug Administration) for use in the UK because the FDA only approves licences for products used in the USA. The FDA has approved Kybella for use in the USA – but they have not yet approved Aqualyx (at the time of writing).

Is Aqualyx Safe For All Body Parts?

Common areas where Aqualyx is frequently used include the chin (to address a double chin), the abdomen, flanks (love handles), thighs, and upper arms. These areas often respond well to fat-dissolving injections. Aqualyx can be effective in reducing small pockets of stubborn fat that may not respond adequately to diet and exercise alone.