Fat Dissolving Injections in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
Fat Dissolving Injections · quick answer
What fat dissolving injections do, in one paragraph
Fat dissolving injections, also called lipolytic injections, place a solution into a small, localised fat pocket to break down fat cells, which the body then clears gradually. Common active ingredients include deoxycholic acid and phosphatidylcholine-based formulas. They suit small areas such as the double chin, jowl line or a stubborn body pocket, not overall weight loss. At Ever Skin Clinic in Apgujeong, a board-certified dermatologist checks whether the fullness is fat, skin laxity or muscle before recommending treatment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jieun Kim, M.D. Founder & Director, board-certified dermatologist. Dermatology residency at Hanyang University Hospital; adjunct professor, Hanyang University College of Medicine. Meet our dermatologists Last reviewed October 2026
- Ingredient
- Lipolytic solutions such as deoxycholic acid or phosphatidylcholine-based formulas
- Best for
- Small fat pockets: double chin, jowls, cheeks, small body areas
- Treatment time
- About 15 to 30 minutes
- Downtime
- Swelling, tenderness or bruising, often 2 to 7 days
- Sessions
- Usually 2 to 4, about 4 weeks apart
The treatment
What are fat dissolving injections?
Lipolytic solutions disrupt the membranes of fat cells in the area where they are injected. The damaged cells are cleared by the body over the following weeks, so the area gradually looks slimmer. Because each session treats only a small volume, results build over a course and are best for well-defined pockets of fat.
On the face, injections are often part of V-line injections or double chin removal. For larger body areas, see lipolytic injections for the body.
Common treatment areas
- Double chin (submental fat)
- Jowls and jawline for a cleaner outline
- Cheeks when fullness is due to fat
- Body : small pockets on the abdomen, flanks, arms or bra line
- Not suitable for sagging skin or general weight loss
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
The best candidates are close to a stable weight and have a small area of fat that has not responded to diet and exercise, with reasonably good skin elasticity. If the fullness is mainly loose skin or muscle, other treatments will work better.
For example, a wide jaw from muscle responds to jaw Botox, while loose skin under the chin may need lifting. Your dermatologist will examine the area and explain which approach fits.
Fat dissolving injections may suit you if you
- Have a small, pinchable fat pocket under the chin or on the body
- Are at a stable, healthy weight
- Have reasonable skin elasticity
- Prefer a non-surgical option with gradual change
- Can plan a course of several sessions
Your visit
What happens during treatment
Each session usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
- Assessment A board-certified dermatologist examines the area, confirms the fullness is fat and agrees the product and plan with you.
- Marking The treatment zone is marked to stay within the fat layer and away from nerves and important structures.
- Injection Small amounts of solution are injected evenly into the fat with a fine needle, sometimes after numbing or ice.
- Aftercare We apply a cold pack, explain expected swelling and schedule the next session about four weeks later.
Real patient · before & after
Choosing the right tool for a slimmer lower face
This patient's wide lower face came from a strong masseter muscle, so she was treated with jaw Botox, not fat dissolving injections. We show it because lower-face fullness can come from muscle, fat or loose skin, and each needs a different treatment.
Ask us for fat-dissolving-specific cases at consultation, and your dermatologist will explain what is realistic for your face or body.
Photos are shared with the patient's consent and are not retouched apart from privacy blurring. Results differ from person to person and are not guaranteed.
See more before & after photosRecovery & safety
Recovery, side effects and aftercare
Swelling, redness, burning, tenderness, numbness and bruising are common, especially with deoxycholic acid under the chin, and can last several days; small hard areas may persist a little longer. Rare risks include uneven contour, skin irritation, and temporary injury to the nerve near the jaw that can affect the smile.
Tell your dermatologist if you have an infection in the area, difficulty swallowing, a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, a history of facial surgery in the area, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Aftercare tips
- Apply cold packs gently for the first day
- Avoid saunas, alcohol and intense exercise for 2 to 3 days
- Do not massage the area unless your doctor advises it
- Plan social events and photos at least a week later
- Contact the clinic about severe pain, skin breakdown or a lopsided smile
Questions we hear every day
Fat Dissolving Injections FAQ
Do fat dissolving injections hurt?
Most patients feel stinging or burning during and shortly after injection, especially with deoxycholic acid. Ice, numbing cream or added anaesthetic can make it more comfortable. The area is often tender and swollen for several days.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients need about two to four sessions spaced around four weeks apart. The number depends on the size of the area and how your body responds. Your dermatologist will reassess after each session.
Are the results permanent?
Treated fat cells are destroyed and cleared, so results can be long-lasting if your weight stays stable. However, remaining fat cells can still enlarge with weight gain, and ageing changes the face over time.
How much downtime should I expect?
Swelling is usually most noticeable for two to three days and can last up to a week, particularly under the chin. Many patients return to work the next day but schedule social events and photos a little later.
Can I have this during a short trip to Seoul?
You can have a first session during a visit, but results need a course of sessions weeks apart. If you will not return, your dermatologist may suggest a different option, such as jaw Botox or lifting, that suits a single visit better.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Send us your skin concern and photos on WhatsApp. An English-speaking team member will reply and arrange your consultation.
Mon & Thu 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Wed, Sun & holidays
