Skin & Aesthetics · Face contouring
Fat Dissolving Injections for the Chin and Face in Seoul
Fat dissolving injections are a series of small injections that break down a modest pocket of fat, most often under the chin, where deoxycholic acid is approved for this use in many countries. At Hommage Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Dr. Kim Hyunbin first confirms that the fullness is fat rather than loose skin or muscle, then explains the product, its evidence and the likely number of sessions.
Quick answer
Fat dissolving injections(injection lipolysis) use a substance such as deoxycholic acid to destroy a small pocket of fat, most often under the chin, which the body then clears over several weeks. At Hommage Women's Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Dr. Kim Hyunbin first confirms the fullness is fat, not loose skin or muscle. Most people need 2–4 sessions at least 4 weeks apart, with swelling for several days to 2 weeks after each.
Key takeaways
- Deoxycholic acid is approved for fat under the chin in the US and in Korea; other “lipolysis” mixtures have much weaker evidence.
- Injections reduce fat only. They do not tighten skin or shrink a jaw muscle.
- Swelling is expected and is usually greatest after the first session.
- Destroyed fat cells do not return, so results last if your weight stays stable.
Infographic
Fat dissolving injections in numbers
Per session
Including numbing; same-day return to normal activity.
Usual sessions
For the chin; approved use allows up to 6.
Between sessions
Results build about 4–6 weeks after each one.
Swelling
Most marked in the first 2–3 days.
Responded in trials
vs 21% with placebo, for fat under the chin.
Temporary nerve injury
Uneven smile in trials; all cases resolved.
Chin and face fat dissolving at a glance
| Key fact | Details |
|---|---|
| What it is | Injections that destroy a small amount of fat; deoxycholic acid is approved for under-chin fat |
| Treatment time | Usually 15–30 minutes, including numbing |
| Comfort | Burning or stinging for several minutes; ice or numbing cream helps |
| Sessions | Typically 2–4 for the chin, spaced at least 4 weeks apart |
| Downtime | Visible swelling for several days, sometimes up to 2 weeks |
| Results visible | Gradually, about 4–6 weeks after each session |
| Reviewed by | Dr. Kim Hyunbin, associate director for skin and aesthetic treatments |
Fat dissolving injections may suit you if you
- Have a small, soft pocket of fat under the chin or along the jawline
- Are at a stable weight and have reasonably firm skin
- Prefer a gradual change without surgery
- Can plan around a week or two of visible swelling
Wait or choose another option if you
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have an infection, acne flare or inflamed skin in the area
- Have trouble swallowing, or past surgery or radiation in the neck area
- Mainly have loose skin, a strong jaw muscle or neck fullness that may not be fat
What are fat dissolving injections and how do they work?
Fat dissolving injections deliver a substance into a small area of fat that damages the fat cell walls, and the body then clears the broken-down cells over several weeks. The most widely studied ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a synthetic form of a bile acid your body already uses to digest dietary fat.
A deoxycholic acid injection has been approved by the US FDA (as Kybella) and by regulators in several other countries for moderate to severe fat under the chin in adults. Clinical trials showed a measurable reduction in chin fullness for most patients after a course of treatments.
Many other products are marketed as “lipolysis” or contour injections, including phosphatidylcholine mixtures and multi-ingredient blends. Their evidence ranges from small studies to very little, and formulas differ between clinics. Before any injection, ask what the product contains, what it is approved for and what the evidence shows.
Which areas of the face can be treated?
The area under the chin has the strongest evidence and is the most common treatment site. Small pockets along the jawline or jowls are sometimes treated in small amounts, which is considered off-label use.
The cheeks need particular care. Facial fat supports a youthful contour, and removing too much can make the face look hollow or older over time. A wide lower face is also often caused by a strong chewing muscle rather than fat; that is treated with jawline botox for masseter reduction , not with fat dissolving. Fat in the deep buccal pad of the cheek does not respond reliably to injections; our page on buccal fat reduction explains the surgical and non-surgical options. For larger areas such as the abdomen, flanks or arms, see fat dissolving injections for the body .
What happens during treatment?
A session usually takes 15–30 minutes and you can return to normal activity the same day. A typical visit runs like this:
- The doctor pinches and examines the area to confirm it is fat, and checks the neck for enlarged glands or other causes of fullness.
- The area is cleaned and marked with a small grid so the product is spread evenly.
- Ice or numbing cream is applied, then a series of tiny injections is placed in the fat layer.
- Ice is applied again afterward to ease burning and swelling.
Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and alcohol for a day or two, and sleep with your head slightly raised if swelling is marked.
How many sessions do you need, and how long do results last?
Most people need 2–4 sessions for the chin, spaced at least 4 weeks apart, and results build gradually over about 4–6 weeks after each one. Approved deoxycholic acid allows up to 6 sessions, but many people stop sooner once they are happy with the contour.
Fat cells that are destroyed do not grow back, so the change is long-lasting as long as your weight stays stable. The remaining fat cells can still enlarge with weight gain, and normal aging can loosen the skin under the chin over time. Fat dissolving does not tighten skin; if laxity is part of the problem, HIFU facial lifting or another tightening treatment may be added.
Risks and possible side effects
Swelling is expected after every session, and under the chin it can be marked for several days and last up to 2 weeks, especially after the first treatment. Other common effects are bruising, pain or burning, numbness that can last several weeks, and small firm areas that soften over time.
Less common risks include:
- Nerve injury along the jaw , causing an uneven smile or lower lip weakness, which usually recovers over weeks to months.
- Difficulty swallowing , usually temporary and linked to swelling.
- Skin injury , such as ulceration, if product reaches the skin or a blood vessel.
- Hair loss in the treated area, reported rarely.
- Nodules or infection , more often reported with unapproved or mixed products.
Contact the clinic promptly if you have trouble swallowing or breathing, an uneven smile, skin that turns dark or blisters, or fever and spreading redness.
Fat dissolving injections vs other double-chin treatments
The right treatment depends on what is causing the fullness. Injections suit a small, defined pocket of fat. Our double chin reduction guide compares every option, but in short:
- Mostly fat, firm skin: fat dissolving injections or cryolipolysis.
- Mostly loose skin: ultrasound or radiofrequency lifting, or threads.
- Fat and laxity together: a combination, often injections first and lifting after.
- A larger volume of fat: surgical liposuction, which Hommage Clinic does not perform.
Fat dissolving injections at Hommage Clinic
Hommage Clinic is a walk-in-friendly women's health and skin clinic in Gangnam, a short walk from Sinnonhyeon Station. Treatment is planned by Dr. Kim Hyunbin, who checks whether fullness comes from fat, skin, muscle or a gland before recommending anything. The clinic offers3D contour injectionsand often combines them with lifting such as Ulthera Prime, which the clinic uses for the jawline and double chin. You are told which product would be used, what it contains and its approval status before treatment.
Contouring injections are cosmetic and are not covered by Korea's National Health Insurance. Cost depends on the product, the area and the number of sessions, and you receive a written quote before treatment. See allskin and aesthetic treatments.
Mechanism
How do fat dissolving injections work? Step by step
Deoxycholic acid acts like a detergent. When it is placed in the fat layer, it dissolves the thin outer wall (membrane) of fat cells, and those cells break apart. Fat cells are somewhat more resistant than other cells, and the surrounding skin is largely spared when the product is placed at the right depth, but it is not perfectly selective, which is why careful technique and dosing matter.
What follows is a controlled inflammatory reaction. That is the swelling, firmness and numbness you feel in the first days. Over the following weeks, the body's clean-up cells remove the debris, and the released fat is processed through normal metabolism; the deoxycholic acid itself is cleared like the bile acids your body already makes. Studies have found no effect on blood cholesterol levels.
Treatment areas
Fat dissolving for the chin, jawline and cheeks: where it is used
Not every part of the face is a good target. The strongest evidence is for fat under the chin. Small amounts along the jawline are used off-label with more caution, and the cheeks are usually left alone because facial fat there supports a youthful shape. The map below summarizes how Dr. Kim approaches each area.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
The profile view shows whether fullness sits under the chin or along the jaw. Illustrative photo.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Products differ in ingredients and evidence; ask which one will be used. Illustrative photo.
Products
Deoxycholic acid vs PPC and contour blends: which fat dissolving injection?
In Seoul you will see many names for fat dissolving injections. They fall into three broad groups with very different levels of evidence. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons does not recommend routine use of injection lipolysis apart from approved deoxycholic acid for fat under the chin, and notes that the safety of other solutions remains unclear.
Deoxycholic acid
- Approved for fat under the chin (US FDA, Korea MFDS)
- Large placebo-controlled trials
- More swelling and numbness, but predictable
PPC mixtures
- Phosphatidylcholine with deoxycholate
- Older “lipodissolve” formulas; mostly small studies
- The deoxycholate appears to do most of the work
Contour blends
- Multi-ingredient or herbal “V-line” mixes
- Formulas vary between clinics
- Often milder, with little published data
Sessions
Fat dissolving injection sessions and swelling timeline
A course of chin fat dissolving usually runs over two to four months. In the approval trials, about 59% of people received all six allowed sessions, but in everyday practice many stop after two to four once they are happy with the contour. Swelling is typically largest after the first session and smaller after later ones.
Aftercare
Aftercare after fat dissolving injections: do's and don'ts
Most of the discomfort after chin fat dissolving comes from the expected inflammation. Good aftercare will not stop swelling completely, but it keeps you comfortable and helps you notice the uncommon problems that need a check.
Do
- Use a wrapped cold pack for short periods in the first 1–2 days
- Sleep with your head slightly raised while swollen
- Wear a scarf or high collar if you want to hide swelling
- Take simple pain relief if the clinic advised it
- Keep your weight stable to protect the result
Don't
- Massage or press hard on lumps; they soften on their own
- Use saunas, hot baths or do strenuous exercise for a day or two
- Drink alcohol on the day of treatment
- Ignore trouble swallowing or an uneven smile; contact the clinic
- Book the next session before 4 weeks have passed
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Plan a few quieter days after the first session, when swelling is usually greatest. Illustrative photo.
Evidence
Do fat dissolving injections work? What the research says
For fat under the chin, the answer is yes for most people, by a modest amount. Two identical placebo-controlled trials with over 1,000 adults led to the US approval of deoxycholic acid in 2015, and Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety approved the same ingredient for under-chin fat in 2017. A bigger change, of two grades or more, happened in a minority. For other areas and other products, the evidence is much thinner.
One-grade improvement
Deoxycholic acid vs placebo, pooled from two phase 3 trials, 12 weeks after the last session.
US prescribing information, Kybella, 2015Two-grade improvement
A larger change happened in a minority of treated patients.
Allergan clinical results, pooled trialsMRI-confirmed fat loss
At least 10% less under-chin fat on MRI in a trial subgroup.
US prescribing information, Kybella, 2015Had numbness
Along with swelling (87%) and pain (70%), numbness was very common but temporary.
US prescribing information, Kybella, 2015Realistic expectations
Fat dissolving injections are not a weight-loss treatment
Injection lipolysis is designed for a small, stubborn pocket of fat that stays even when your weight is stable. The amount of fat removed is small in absolute terms, so the scale will not change. If you are still losing or gaining weight, it is usually better to wait until your weight settles, because a double chin often shrinks with general weight loss and the plan may change.
Keeping the result
- The fat cells destroyed in the treated area do not grow back.
- Remaining fat cells can still enlarge if you gain weight, including under the chin.
- Skin under the chin naturally loosens with age; injections do not prevent this.
- Lifting treatments such as HIFU facial lifting or jawline tightening RF can be added for laxity.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Results last best when your weight stays stable. Illustrative photo.
Traveling to Seoul
Fat dissolving injections in Seoul for international patients
Because sessions must be at least 4 weeks apart, a full course rarely fits into one trip. Many visitors have one session in Seoul and continue with a qualified doctor at home, or plan two trips. Hommage Women's Clinic is in Gangnam, a short walk from Sinnonhyeon Station (Line 9 and Shinbundang Line).
Planning tips
- Book the session early in your stay, so you can be seen again if swelling worries you.
- Allow 2–3 quieter days afterward; swelling under the chin is most visible then.
- Ask for the product name and dose in writing, so a doctor at home can continue safely.
- Bring your passport and a list of medicines, especially blood thinners.
- Message the clinic by WhatsApp, KakaoTalk or the contact form before your visit to arrange language support.
Hommage · Seoul
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Seoul: the clinic is in Gangnam, a short walk from Sinnonhyeon Station. Illustrative photo.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
You should know the product, number of sessions and cost before you start. Illustrative photo.
Choosing well
How to choose a clinic for fat dissolving injections in Seoul
Fat dissolving injections are widely advertised in Gangnam, often under brand names that do not reveal the ingredients. These questions help you compare clinics, including ours:
- What exactly is in the product? Ask for the ingredient list and whether it is approved for this area.
- Is it fat, or something else? The doctor should check for loose skin, muscle and glands before treating.
- Who injects, and how deep? A licensed physician should inject into the fat layer, away from the jaw nerve.
- How many sessions, how far apart? At least 4 weeks between sessions, with a review each time.
- What happens if there is a problem? You should have a way to reach the clinic and a plan for follow-up.
What affects the cost of fat dissolving injections?
The cost depends on the product, the size of the area and amount used per session, and how many sessions you need. Adding lifting, jawline Botox or other contour treatments changes the total. Treatment is cosmetic and not covered by Korea's National Health Insurance; you receive a written quote before treatment.
Your visit
What to expect at your first appointment
01
Assessment
Dr. Kim examines the chin and jawline, checks skin firmness and muscle bulk, and asks about your weight history, medicines and health conditions.
02
Product and plan
You hear which product is recommended, its approval status, how many sessions are likely and how much swelling to expect.
03
Treatment
After numbing, a series of small injections is placed in the fat layer. Ice is applied afterward and you can go home the same day.
04
Review
Results are checked about 4–6 weeks later, before deciding whether another session is needed.
Your doctor
Dr. Kim Hyunbin
Associate Director · Skin & Aesthetic Treatments
Dr. Kim first checks whether fullness under the chin or along the jaw is fat, loose skin, muscle or a gland, because only fat responds to these injections. Dr. Kim then explains the product, its approval status and the expected swelling before any treatment is booked.
Associate director dedicated to skin and aesthetic procedures, with extensive experience in lifting, botulinum toxin, fillers and laser treatments.
Fat dissolving injections: frequently asked questions
Do fat dissolving injections really work?
For fat under the chin, deoxycholic acid injections have good clinical-trial evidence, and most patients see a measurable reduction after a course of treatments. Evidence for other lipolysis blends is weaker and varies by product. Results also depend on choosing the right patient: injections reduce fat but do not tighten loose skin or shrink muscle.
How long does swelling last after chin fat dissolving injections?
Swelling under the chin is usually most noticeable for the first 2–3 days and settles over about 1–2 weeks. It is often greatest after the first session and milder after later ones. Plan treatment at least two weeks before an important event, and use ice and a slightly raised pillow to ease it.
How many fat dissolving sessions will I need?
Most people need 2–4 sessions for the chin, spaced at least 4 weeks apart. A small pocket may need fewer. Your doctor reviews the result about 4–6 weeks after each session before deciding whether another is worthwhile.
Are fat dissolving injection results permanent?
The fat cells that are destroyed do not come back, so results are long-lasting if your weight stays stable. Remaining fat cells can still grow with weight gain, and the skin under the chin naturally loosens with age. Some people choose occasional lifting treatments later to maintain the jawline.
Can fat dissolving injections make my face look older?
They can if used in the wrong place. Fat in the cheeks and mid-face supports a youthful shape, and removing too much can leave hollows. That is why injections are usually limited to the chin and lower jawline, and why a wide face caused by muscle is treated with masseter botox instead.
Can I have fat dissolving injections while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Fat dissolving injections have not been studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so treatment should wait until after you have finished breastfeeding. Changes to the face and chin during pregnancy often settle on their own after birth, so it is worth reassessing then.
Can foreigners get fat dissolving injections in Seoul?
Yes. Visitors and foreign residents can book treatment at Hommage Clinic in Gangnam. Walk-ins are welcome, or book ahead for a set time; bring your passport for registration. Because swelling peaks over the first few days and sessions are a month apart, plan your travel dates around treatment, and contact us before your visit to arrange language support.
Do fat dissolving injections hurt?
Most people feel a burning or stinging sensation for several minutes during and after the injections. Ice or numbing cream beforehand makes it more comfortable. Tenderness, numbness and firmness under the chin are common for days to a few weeks afterward and gradually fade.
Is deoxycholic acid (Kybella or Belkyra) approved in Korea?
Yes. Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety approved deoxycholic acid injection (sold as Belkyra in Korea) in 2017 for fullness caused by fat under the chin in adults. Use on other areas of the face is off-label, and other lipolysis products may not carry the same approval, so ask which product will be used.
What is the difference between PPC and deoxycholic acid injections?
PPC injections combine phosphatidylcholine with deoxycholate, while approved products contain deoxycholic acid alone. Laboratory studies suggest the deoxycholate does most of the fat-dissolving work. Deoxycholic acid has large placebo-controlled trials for the chin; PPC mixtures have mainly smaller studies, and formulas vary.
Can fat dissolving injections damage nerves?
Uncommonly. In the approval trials, about 4% of people had temporary weakness of the nerve that moves the lower lip, causing an uneven smile, and all cases resolved without treatment. Injecting only into the fat layer and staying away from the jawline nerve lowers this risk. Contact the clinic if your smile changes.
When will I see results from fat dissolving injections?
Usually about 4–6 weeks after each session, once swelling has settled and the body has cleared the treated fat. The change builds with each session, so the final result is judged 4–6 weeks after the last one. Photos at the same angle make small changes easier to see.
Can fat dissolving injections be combined with lifting?
Yes, when there is both fat and some loose skin. Fat reduction is usually done first, then lifting such as HIFU facial lifting is added once swelling has settled, so the doctor can judge how much tightening is still needed.
References
Sources used for this page, reviewed by Dr. Kim Hyunbin. Read our editorial and medical review policy.
- US Food and Drug Administration. KYBELLA (deoxycholic acid) injection: prescribing information. 2015. FDA label
- Allergan Aesthetics. KYBELLA clinical results and dosing (healthcare professional information). Manufacturer page
- Korea Biomedical Review. Allergan Korea receives MFDS approval for double-chin injection Belkyra. August 2017. Article
- Kamalpour S, LeBlanc K Jr. Injection adipolysis: mechanisms, agents, and future directions. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016;9(12):44–50. JCAD
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Mesotherapy and injection lipolysis: position statement (updated 2019). ASPS
This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. Illustrations are original works of Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul; photos marked illustrative are not of patients.
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Fat Dissolving Injections (Body)
Injection lipolysis for small body areas such as the bra line and abdomen, with honest evidence.
3D Contour Injection
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Jawline Botox
Slims a wide lower face caused by a strong chewing muscle rather than fat.
HIFU Facial Lifting
Focused ultrasound lifting for jawline and under-chin laxity.
Face Slimming Injections
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Find out if fat dissolving injections suit your chin
Book an assessment with Dr. Kim Hyunbin in Gangnam. We check whether the fullness is fat, skin or muscle before suggesting injections or another option.
Hommage Clinic · 4F, Building A, 509 Gangnam-daero, Seoul (near Sinnonhyeon Station) · Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Tue–Thu 10:00–19:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00