Where does the fat go after fat dissolving injections?

Author: Prof. Emmet Schmeler PhD  |  Last update: Friday, August 8, 2025

Fat dissolving injections work by liquefying fat cells in the treated area, destroying them permanently. The lymphatic system then naturally eliminates the fat/lipids.

Where does the fat go from fat dissolving?

Once these fat cells are broken down, the body naturally disposes of them through the lymphatic drainage system.

What happens to fat after fat dissolving injections?

Once the fat is dissolved, it's flushed from your body through your urine and lymphatic system. Aqualyx targets small pockets of fat. The main active ingredient in Aqualyx injections is deoxycholic acid, a substance that naturally occurs in the stomach and helps break down fat in the diet.

How do you know if fat dissolving injections are working?

While you won't see the results immediately, you can typically begin to see results after around 8 weeks. This is because the body needs time to drain and remove the fat cells from the body, and in general this can take around 8 weeks.

Does fat dissolving work on the stomach?

Fat dissolving injections, such as Aqualyx, offer a highly effective and minimally invasive way to target and break down fat in areas like the chin, abdomen, and thighs. These fat cells are then naturally eliminated by your body, helping you achieve a more contoured appearance.

Fat dissolving aftercare advice

How does fat dissolving leave the body?

A solution of deoxycholic acid is used in both Aqualyx (modified compound) and Kybella (synthetic form). Fat dissolving injections work by liquefying fat cells in the treated area, destroying them permanently. The lymphatic system then naturally eliminates the fat/lipids.

How many fat dissolving injections do I need for my stomach?

Most patients require two to four treatment sessions several weeks apart to achieve optimal results. The amount of fat that needs removing is another factor that can affect the number of treatments needed. Patients with more significant amounts of fat may require additional treatments to achieve their desired results.

Does drinking water help fat dissolving injections?

The amount of fat dissolved may vary depending on the area injections are administered, how many sessions you take and how your body responds to the treatment. Enhanced results can be encouraged by drinking lots of water to help with lymphatic drainage and exercising alongside treatment.

What not to do after fat dissolving injections?

Avoid excessive alcohol for 24 hours. Avoid intense exercise for the first day. Gently apply a wrapped cold pack intermittently for the first few hours after your fat dissolving injections (be careful not to apply any pressure).

How much weight do you lose from fat dissolving injections?

Do you lose weight after fat dissolving injections? Fat dissolving injection is not a weight loss treatment. Fat dissolving injections just eliminate unwanted fat that is present. To ensure the best results are achieved a healthy diet and exercise should be maintained whilst having the treatment.

How to speed up fat dissolving injections?

Massage the Area: Gentle massage of the treated area can help distribute the solution and expedite the fat dissolution process. Follow your practitioner's advice on this.

What is a hard lump after fat dissolving?

Fat necrosis is a common complication that may result in either hardened lumps or oil cysts. Oil cysts occur when fat necrosis dissolves and forms a calcified cyst over liquid fat, which feels smooth and pliable. Hardened lumps, on the other hand, may cause physical discomfort and cause the skin to bruise.

What can go wrong with fat dissolving injections?

If fat dissolving injections are administered incorrectly, or in unsafe volumes, there is a small risk of damage to the skin and surrounding structures.

Where does fat disappear first?

Mostly, losing weight is an internal process. You will first lose hard fat that surrounds your organs like liver, kidneys and then you will start to lose soft fat like waistline and thigh fat. The fat loss from around the organs makes you leaner and stronger.

At what point does fat melt?

95-130°F (35-54°C).

Animal fats start to soften and melt.

Are fat dissolving injections worth it?

Aqualyx fat dissolving injections can be an extremely effective treatment if you're struggling to achieve your desired body shape despite having made healthy lifestyle changes — for example, if you've tried exercising more often and changing your diet.

Does skin sag after fat dissolving injections?

Concern: loose/sagging skin

It is well known that loose or sagging skin can develop as a result of extreme or rapid weight loss over a short period of time which can occur with weight loss injections. Skin turgor refers to the degree of tension in your skin.

How quickly do you see results from fat dissolving injections?

Fat dissolve injections are excellent for small areas, such as the chin or knees. They may take a little longer to work—typically 4-6 weeks. CoolSculpting typically shows results within the same time period; however, additional improvements continue to arrive for up to 16 weeks.

Should you massage fat dissolving injections?

Massaging the treatment area following administration allows the product to be dispersed and evenly distributed. In addition, as the Aqualyx dissolves the fat, manual massage will aid the lymphatic system in removing the waste products.

Does your belly swell after fat dissolving injections?

Swelling is a normal result of the injections and is an indication that the treatment is working. Swelling is variable and in some cases may persist for up to 4 weeks.

Does exercise help fat dissolving injections?

Avoid heavy exercise for 48 hours after treatment, as sweating will cause you to excrete the solution from the skin, which will reduce the treatment effectiveness. Eat extra fibre to bind toxins excreted in the digestive tract.

What to eat after fat dissolving injections?

Post procedure advice

Follow a low fat diet for the period between your Aqualyx treatment and your follow up. This helps your body to respond better to the treatment. It is advised to continue a healthy,balanced lifestyle to avoid fat returning to the treatment area.

Does fat dissolving work on belly fat?

Belly fat is notoriously stubborn and for some these unwanted pockets of fat just won't seem to shift, despite a healthy lifestyle and exercise. If this sounds familiar, fat-dissolving injections might be for you.

What is the downtime for fat dissolving injections?

Downtime: 3 days – significant swelling (others can see, but if wear mask – not seen). More swelling – better results (if no swelling – please come for free top up as we need results). Then mild (noone can see except yourself) for 5-8 weeks (lumps, numbness when touch).

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