Submental Lipolysis Injection

Injectable lipolysis for the submental (under-chin) region uses a fat-dissolving solution to permanently reduce localised fat deposits causing the appearance of a double chin. The deoxycholic acid-based injection disrupts adipocyte cell membranes, triggering permanent fat cell destruction and gradual volume reduction over six to eight weeks.

Submental lipolysis is a non-surgical fat reduction procedure specifically targeting the accumulation of submental adipose tissue — the fat pad beneath the chin that creates the appearance of a double chin or reduced jawline definition. The active agent used is deoxycholic acid, a secondary bile acid that occurs naturally in the human body, or a synthetic equivalent formulated for injection use. When introduced into the submental fat layer, deoxycholic acid disrupts the phospholipid bilayer of adipocyte cell membranes, causing them to lyse. The released fat is then cleared by the body's inflammatory and lymphatic systems over the subsequent six to eight weeks. The procedure begins with a precise mapping of the submental treatment zone — the injector marks a grid across the area using a template to ensure systematic coverage. A series of small-volume injections is placed into the submental fat layer approximately one centimetre apart across the mapped grid. Local anaesthetic (often combined in the injection solution) minimises discomfort during the procedure. The total number of injection points per session depends on the size of the fat deposit, typically ranging from 20 to 50 points. Patients should expect significant swelling in the submental area for three to ten days after each session — this is a direct result of the inflammatory process that drives fat clearance and is expected, not a complication. Firmness and temporary numbness in the treated area are also common for several weeks. Because the fat cell destruction is permanent, cells that are eliminated do not regenerate; however, existing cells in adjacent or untreated areas can still enlarge with significant weight gain, so maintaining a stable body weight helps preserve results. Most patients require two to four sessions spaced at least four weeks apart to achieve their desired reduction. The degree of improvement per session depends on the initial fat volume and individual clearance rate. Final results — once all treated fat has been cleared — are typically visible at three to four months from the start of treatment.