When it comes to stubborn pockets of fat that just won’t budge, even with a healthy lifestyle, many people are turning to fat dissolving injections for a non-invasive solution. At Viva Well, this treatment is part of our personalised approach to aesthetic care, offering subtle, natural-looking results with minimal downtime.

So if you’ve been wondering what they are, how they work, and whether they’re right for you, here’s everything you need to know.

What are fat dissolving injections?

Fat dissolving injections (also known as lipolytic injections) are cosmetic treatments that break down and eliminate small, stubborn fat deposits under the skin.

The most common active ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a synthetic version of a molecule your body naturally uses to absorb fat. When injected into targeted areas, this acid disrupts the fat cell membrane, causing the cells to break down. Over time, your body naturally processes and eliminates these fat cells through the lymphatic system.

Once removed, these fat cells do not regenerate, which makes the results long-lasting, especially when combined with healthy habits.

What areas can be treated?

Fat dissolving injections are best for localised fat – areas where the skin still has good elasticity and where fat sits above the muscle layer. The most commonly treated zones include:

• Submental area (double chin)
  
• Upper and lower abdomen
  
• Flanks (love handles)
  
• Inner or outer thighs
  
• Bra bulges
  
• Upper arms
  
• Hips or “banana rolls” beneath the buttocks
  
• Knees
  

It’s important to note that this is not a weight-loss treatment. Instead, it’s ideal for those near their goal weight who wish to refine and contour specific areas.

What happens during the procedure?

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, where we assess your body composition, discuss your goals and ensure you’re a suitable candidate. We’ll also determine the number of sessions you may need – usually between 2 and 4 treatments per area.

On the day of treatment:

• The area is cleaned and marked.
  
• A numbing agent is applied to ensure comfort.
  
• The solution is injected using fine needles, strategically placed across the treatment area.
  
• The session typically takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the area.
  

Afterwards, you may experience swelling, bruising, tenderness or mild redness, which is entirely normal and usually resolves in a few days.

When will I see results?

Because the body gradually processes and removes the broken-down fat cells, results appear progressively.

Most clients begin to notice a difference 3 to 4 weeks after the first session, with more visible improvement after 2–3 sessions. Maximum results are typically achieved around 8 weeks after your final treatment.

The treated fat cells are gone for good, but new fat can develop if there’s significant weight gain, which is why we always encourage healthy, sustainable habits.

Are fat dissolving injections safe?

Yes, when administered by qualified professionals. At Viva Well, all injectable treatments are performed by trained Nurse Prescribers in a CQC-regulated clinic, ensuring high standards of safety and medical care.

We use clinically approved products that have been rigorously tested for both safety and efficacy. During your consultation, we’ll go through your medical history to ensure the treatment is right for you.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

Fat dissolving injections are suitable for men and women who:
✅ Are within 10–15% of their ideal body weight
✅ Have localised fat resistant to diet and exercise
✅ Want a non-surgical, low-downtime treatment
✅ Prefer subtle, natural-looking contouring

This treatment is not suitable if you:
❌ Are pregnant or breastfeeding
❌ Have certain metabolic or autoimmune conditions
❌ Have poor skin elasticity (in which case alternative treatments may be advised)

Is there any downtime?

Downtime is minimal, but swelling is common, especially in areas like under the chin. Mild bruising, tenderness, or firmness in the treated area may occur and typically subsides within 3 to 7 days.

For best results, we advise avoiding intense exercise, saunas, or alcohol for 48 hours after treatment, and staying well-hydrated to support your body’s detox process.

How does Viva Well approach fat dissolving?

At Viva Well, we don’t believe in quick fixes or one-size-fits-all treatments.

We take time to understand your body, lifestyle, and goals, and guide you through a plan that fits, not just physically, but emotionally too. For some, that means combining fat dissolving injections with IV drips to support metabolism, skin tightening treatments, or lymphatic drainage. For others, it may be a stand-alone treatment for one area of concern.

We’re here to ensure you feel informed, empowered and comfortable every step of the way.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

If you’ve been doing all the right things and still feel frustrated with specific areas of fat, this treatment could be the missing piece. It’s discreet, customisable and designed to work with (not against) your natural body.

Let’s talk body confidence your way.

Book your consultation at Viva Well to explore how fat dissolving injections can help you feel more in control of your shape, with subtle yet meaningful results.