Lipolytic Injections in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
Lipolytic Injections · quick answer
What lipolytic injections are, in one paragraph
Lipolytic injections, often called fat-dissolving injections, deliver an agent such as deoxycholic acid or a phosphatidylcholine blend into a small fat pocket. The agent breaks down fat cells, and the body clears them gradually over several weeks, refining contours on the face and body without surgery. Formulas differ in strength, swelling and number of sessions. At Ever Skin Clinic, a board-certified dermatologist chooses the formula and dose for each area after checking whether the fullness is truly fat.
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
- Deoxycholic acid; phosphatidylcholine-based blends
- Best for
- Double chin, jowl fat, bra line, arms, abdomen, knees
- Sessions
- Usually 2 to 5, interval depends on formula
- Downtime
- Swelling and tenderness from a few days to about a week
- Results
- Gradual, about 4 to 8 weeks after each session
The ingredients
How the different formulas compare
Deoxycholic acid is the most researched lipolytic; a purified product is approved in several countries for fat under the chin. It acts strongly and causes noticeable swelling, so sessions are spaced about four to six weeks apart. Phosphatidylcholine-based and other blended formulas are generally milder, with less swelling, but often need more sessions. Most body uses are off-label, which your doctor will explain.
This page compares ingredients and areas. For the double chin specifically, see lipolysis injections; for larger body areas, see body slimming injections; for facial fat, see fat dissolving injections.
Choosing a formula
- Deoxycholic acid : stronger effect, more swelling, fewer sessions
- Phosphatidylcholine blends : milder, less downtime, more sessions
- Face : small doses with careful mapping around nerves
- Body : larger volumes spread evenly over a grid
- Combined plans : injections plus RF or Onda for skin firmness
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
The best candidates have small, pinchable fat pockets, a stable weight and reasonable skin elasticity. Lipolytic injections do not treat visceral (internal) fat, loose skin, muscle bulk or swelling caused by glands, so the cause of fullness must be checked first. In the lower face, buccal fat changes are planned conservatively, since fat loss can age the face.
Lipolytic injections may suit you if you
- Have a double chin or jowl fat at a healthy weight
- Have small body bulges resistant to exercise
- Want a non-surgical, gradual result
- Can plan around a few days of swelling
- Are prepared for more than one session
Your visit
What happens during treatment
Treatment takes about 15 to 40 minutes, depending on the area.
- Assessment Your dermatologist confirms the fullness is fat and chooses the formula and dose.
- Marking An even grid is marked, avoiding nerves and vessels, especially along the jaw.
- Injection Small amounts are placed into the fat layer with a fine needle after cooling or numbing.
- Follow-up We review the result in about 4 to 6 weeks and decide on further sessions.
Real patient · before & after
Facial slimming without surgery, an example
This case shows facial slimming with Botox and filler dissolving (hyaluronidase), which dissolves filler, not fat. It is not a lipolytic injection result; it is shown as an example of non-surgical contouring.
Fat reduction results depend on the area and number of sessions. Ask us for lipolytic-specific cases at consultation.
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, bruising, burning or itching and temporary numbness or firmness are common. With deoxycholic acid, swelling can last about a week. Uncommon risks include lumps, uneven contour, skin damage if placed too superficially, temporary difficulty swallowing and, near the jaw, a temporarily uneven smile.
Tell your dermatologist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have infection in the area, a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, liver or kidney disease, or an allergy to soy or any ingredient.
Aftercare tips
- Expect swelling to peak in the first 1 to 3 days
- Use a cold pack gently for comfort
- Avoid alcohol, saunas and intense exercise for 2 to 3 days
- Do not massage unless your dermatologist advises it
- Contact the clinic about trouble swallowing, an uneven smile or a hard lump
Questions we hear every day
Lipolytic Injections FAQ
Do lipolytic injections really dissolve fat?
They break down fat cells in the injected area, and the body clears them over several weeks. The effect is local and gradual, suited to small pockets rather than overall weight loss.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually two to five, depending on the area, amount of fat and formula. Stronger formulas need fewer sessions spaced further apart; milder ones more frequent sessions.
How much swelling should I expect?
Swelling is normal and is usually most noticeable for the first few days, especially with deoxycholic acid under the chin, where it can last about a week. Milder formulas tend to swell less.
Are the results permanent?
Destroyed fat cells do not return, but the remaining cells can enlarge with weight gain. Results last well when your weight stays stable.
Can I combine fat-dissolving injections with fillers or Botox?
Often yes, as part of a contouring plan, for example jaw Botox for muscle and injections for fat. Your dermatologist sequences treatments so swelling does not hide the result of another.
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
