Fat Dissolving Injections
Medical Weight Loss · VEI Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul
Fat-dissolving injections are performed at VEI Clinic Apgujeong after a consultation and candidacy review. Your doctor checks whether the concern is suited to injections, explains the risks and recovery, and plans the number of sessions with you.
What “Fat Dissolving Injections” Actually Are
- Deoxycholic acid (DCA) injections (brand names vary by country) are approved to reduce submental (under-chin) fat. Key known risks include temporary facial nerve weakness (asymmetric smile) and trouble swallowing; infection at the injection site is a contraindication. Outcomes typically require a series of treatments.
- Many other “fat-dissolving” cocktails (e.g., phosphatidylcholine/deoxycholate, mesotherapy mixtures) are not FDA-approved for fat reduction; the FDA has warned consumers about unapproved products and complications.
Who Might Be a Candidate (Submental Area)
- Stable weight; pinchable fat under the chin
- No active skin infection; no recent surgery in the area; not pregnant/breastfeeding
- Understands the risks (temporary marginal mandibular nerve paresis, dysphagia, swelling, numbness) and that multiple sessions are typical.
Risks We Will Discuss Clearly
- Common/local: swelling, pain, bruising, numbness, firmness.
- Less common but important: temporary facial nerve weakness, dysphagia, contour irregularity/ulceration, alopecia at the site (rare). A 2024 review summarizes management of serious events following DCA injections.
- Red flags: spreading redness, fever, severe/asymmetric smile weakness, or persistent trouble swallowing → urgent evaluation.
- Unapproved mixtures: higher risk of unpredictable reactions; the FDA explicitly warns against unapproved fat-dissolving injections offered in spas or online.
Visit Flow (Typical)
- Consult — goals, photos, pinch test and medical screen
- Plan — candidacy, alternatives and the estimated number of sessions
- Treatment — injections in a private treatment room
- Aftercare check-ins — swelling and discomfort plan, timelines and follow-up
Pricing & Transparency
You will receive a clear quote before treatment. Costs depend on the area treated and the number of sessions.
Questions
Is this the same as “Kybella/Belkyra”?
Yes—those are brand names for deoxycholic acid used to reduce submental fat; risks include temporary facial nerve weakness and dysphagia.
How many sessions will I need?
Often multiple sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart; the exact number depends on anatomy and dose per session.
Are “full-body” fat-dissolving shots safe?
Be cautious. The FDA warns about unapproved fat-dissolving injections from non-medical sources; complications have been reported. We’ll steer you to regulated options only.
What about mesotherapy (phosphatidylcholine mixes)?
Evidence is limited and inconsistent, and these products are not FDA-approved for fat reduction. We don’t recommend them.
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Plan your visit
3F, Beneheim City, 162 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. About a one-minute walk from Exit 5 of Apgujeong Station (Line 3).
- Mon · Thu · Fri
- 10:00 – 19:00
- Tuesday
- 10:00 – 20:00
- Saturday
- 10:00 – 16:00
- Lunch break
- 13:00 – 14:00, except Saturday
- Wed · Sun
- Closed
Bring your passport or ID, a list of medicines and allergies, and any recent results. For chest pain, severe breathing difficulty or signs of stroke, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency department.