What are fat dissolving injections?

• These are non-surgical treatments sometimes called injection lipolysis — they involve injecting a solution into localized fat deposits to break down fat cells (adipocytes).
• A common active ingredient is the synthetic version of the bile-acid derivative deoxycholic acid, which ruptures fat-cell membranes so the body gradually clears the fat.
• They are typically used for small to moderate pockets of fat in defined areas — e.g., under the chin, jawline, thighs, arms — rather than large-volume fat removal.

Typical procedure & recovery

• The injection session often takes 20-60 minutes, depending on area and amount.
• After the injection, common effects include: swelling, redness, tenderness/bruising in the treated area. Recovery is minimal (no major downtime) in most cases.
• Results are gradual: you will not see the full effect immediately. The body needs time (weeks) to clear the destroyed fat cells and remodel the area.

Cost in Seoul / South Korea

• According to recent data, the approximate cost per session in Seoul is around ₩200,000 (~US $137) for a typical small-area fat-dissolving injection.
• That said, costs vary widely depending on:
• Size & number of areas treated
• Number of sessions required
• Ingredients/brand used
• Clinic’s reputation & included services (consultation, follow-up)

Who is a good candidate?

• Adults with localized fat pockets (“stubborn fat”) that haven’t responded sufficiently to diet/exercise.
• Individuals who are near their ideal weight but want contouring rather than large-scale fat removal. Seoul.clinic
• Those willing to undergo multiple sessions and maintain a stable weight/lifestyle to preserve results. Korea Clinic Guide

Pros & cons

✅ Pros

• Minimally invasive (no large incisions, general anaesthesia).
• Shorter downtime compared to surgical liposuction.
• Can improve body/face contours with focused treatment.

⚠️ Cons / Things to note

• Results are modest compared to surgical fat removal; not ideal for large volume fat.
• Several sessions may be needed (2-6 or more) for optimal results. Seoul.clinic+1
• Swelling / bruising are common immediately after; full improvements may take weeks.
• Maintenance: if you gain weight, fat in untreated areas can still increase; treatment does not guarantee no future fat accumulation.
• As with all injectables, technique and practitioner experience matter a lot for safety & outcome.

Key questions to ask during consultation

• Exactly what ingredient or product will be used? Is it FDA or MFDS approved/cleared in Korea? (Korea’s MFDS = Korean counterpart of FDA)
• Which area(s) will be treated, and how many sessions does the clinic recommend?
• What are expected side-effects, swelling timeline, downtime?
• How will results be measured / what before-and-after documentation?
• Are additional supporting treatments recommended (e.g., ultrasound, lymphatic drainage, skin tightening) for best outcome?
• What happens if you’re not satisfied — are revision sessions offered?
• What is the full cost (including consultation, injections, follow-up) and are there packages?
• What after-care instructions apply (activity restrictions, sauna/steam avoidance, etc.)?

After-care & maintenance tips

• Avoid strenuous exercise, sauna, very hot baths or heavy sweating for the first 24-48 hours (or as instructed) post-treatment.
• Cold-compressing the treated area may help reduce swelling/bruising.
• Maintain a stable healthy weight and lifestyle — fat in untreated areas can still grow.
• Continue good skincare & possibly combine with other contouring/skin-tightening treatments if needed (especially if you have skin laxity).