IV Fat-Dissolving Therapy in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
IV Fat-Dissolving Therapy · quick answer
What IV fat-dissolving therapy is, in one paragraph
IV fat-dissolving therapy is the popular name for an intravenous drip of vitamins, minerals, amino acids such as L-carnitine, and antioxidants, used to support metabolism and energy during a weight-management plan. Despite the name, an IV drip does not dissolve or remove fat in a specific area, and it is not a weight-loss treatment on its own. At Ever Skin Clinic, a board-certified dermatologist reviews your health and goals, and recommends targeted contouring injections or devices if you want to change a specific area.
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
- Ingredients
- Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, fluids (personalised)
- Best for
- Support during a supervised diet and exercise plan
- Treatment time
- About 30 to 60 minutes
- Downtime
- None expected; possible bruise at the drip site
- Results
- Supportive only; no localised fat loss from the drip itself
The treatment
What is IV fat-dissolving therapy?
The drip delivers a personalised mix of nutrients into a vein. Ingredients such as L-carnitine, B vitamins and antioxidants play roles in energy metabolism, and some patients find drips helpful for energy and hydration while dieting. However, good evidence that IV nutrients increase fat loss in healthy people is limited, and they do not target fat in any particular area.
Localised fullness under the chin, on the abdomen or arms is treated differently, with fat-dissolving injections placed directly into the fat, or with devices described on our fat reduction and contouring page. You can compare all our drips on the IV therapy page.
IV drip vs targeted fat-dissolving injections
- IV drip : given into a vein; general metabolic and nutrient support
- Injections : placed into a specific fat pocket to reduce it locally
- IV drip does not change the shape of a chosen area
- Injections can contour areas like the double chin or abdomen over several sessions
- Both work best with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
An IV metabolic drip may suit healthy adults who are already following a diet and exercise plan and want additional nutrient support. It is not suitable as a replacement for medical weight-loss care, and we will tell you honestly if a different treatment fits your goals better.
If your main concern is a specific area, such as the double chin, flanks or arms, your dermatologist will discuss targeted options such as lipolytic injections or body-contouring devices.
An IV drip may suit you if you
- Are following a supervised diet and exercise plan
- Want nutrient and hydration support while dieting
- Have no kidney, heart or liver disease that limits fluids or nutrients
- Understand the drip does not remove fat from one area
- Are open to combining it with targeted contouring if needed
Your visit
What happens during a session
A session takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and you can return to normal activities afterwards.
- Medical review A board-certified dermatologist reviews your health, medicines, supplements and goals and decides whether a drip is appropriate.
- Formulation The ingredients and doses are selected for you; nothing is given without this assessment.
- Infusion A nurse places a fine cannula in your arm and the drip runs while you rest.
- Plan We check you feel well and agree how the drip fits with diet, exercise and any contouring treatment.
Real patient · before & after
Our non-surgical contouring results
This case shows a slimmer lower face after masseter Botox, a targeted contouring treatment. It is shown as an example of our non-surgical contouring work and is not an IV fat-dissolving therapy result; IV drips do not change face or body shape on their own.
Ask us at consultation for body-contouring cases relevant to the area you want to treat.
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
Side effects and safety
Possible temporary effects include bruising, tenderness or swelling at the drip site, lightheadedness, nausea, and a warm or flushed feeling. Rarely, allergic reactions can occur, so infusions are given under medical supervision.
Tell your dermatologist about any medical conditions, especially kidney, heart, liver or thyroid disease, diabetes, allergies, current medicines and supplements, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Aftercare tips
- Eat a light meal before your session
- Press on the drip site for a few minutes to reduce bruising
- Drink water and stay active as advised
- Keep following your nutrition and exercise plan
- Contact the clinic if you develop a rash, swelling or breathing discomfort
Questions we hear every day
IV Fat-Dissolving Therapy FAQ
Does an IV fat-dissolving drip actually dissolve fat?
No. Despite the name, an IV drip does not dissolve or remove fat from a particular area. It provides nutrients that support metabolism and energy, which some people find helpful while dieting. Localised fat is treated with injections placed directly into the fat or with body-contouring devices.
Will I lose weight with IV therapy alone?
IV therapy is not a stand-alone weight-loss treatment. Any change in weight depends mainly on diet, activity and your health. The drip is used, if at all, as support alongside those measures.
How many sessions are recommended?
It depends on your health and plan. Some patients have a single drip, others a short series alongside a diet programme. We review whether it is helping and avoid unnecessary sessions.
Can I combine it with fat-dissolving injections?
Yes. Some patients have a drip on the same day as targeted injections or a contouring device session. The injections or device address the specific area, while the drip is optional general support.
Is it suitable for travellers?
Yes, there is no downtime. If your goal is a visible change in a specific area during your trip, your dermatologist may suggest targeted treatments instead, as an IV drip will not change contours.
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
