You’re not alone—under-chin fat treatments generate more questions than almost any other cosmetic procedure. From “Does it hurt?” to “Where does the fat actually go?”, this page answers the real questions people Google before they book.
This is a purely educational guide to fat dissolving treatments for the double chin, written to help you understand safety, recovery, results, and suitability before making a decision.
The mechanics: How does fat dissolving work?
What is fat dissolving?
Fat dissolving is an injectable medical treatment that uses deoxycholic acid to permanently destroy fat cells in small, stubborn pockets—most commonly under the chin (the submental fat pad).
You may see different names online, but they all work on the same biological principle: injection lipolysis.
How does fat dissolving actually destroy fat?
Deoxycholic acid is a substance your body naturally uses to digest dietary fat. Fat dissolving uses the same mechanism.
When injected directly into fat tissue, the treatment:
- Breaks down the fat cell membrane
- Causes the fat cell to rupture
- Triggers a controlled inflammatory response
- Allows the body to clear the destroyed cells naturally
Fat cells cannot regenerate after they are broken down.
Where does the fat go after it dissolves?
This is one of the most searched questions.
After fat cells break down:
- The fatty debris is collected by the lymphatic system
- It is processed by the liver
- It is excreted naturally through waste
So yes—eventually, it leaves the body through normal metabolic pathways.
Is it permanent? Does the fat come back?
Yes, it is permanent.
Destroyed fat cells are gone for good. However remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain weight
This is why results are best maintained at a stable weight
Fat dissolving is not weight-loss treatments—they are for contouring stubborn fat pockets.
Is fat dissolving for weight loss?
No.
They are designed for:
- Localised fat under the chin
- People near their normal weight
- Fat that does not respond to diet or exercise
They are not a substitute for weight loss, and using them that way is unsafe and ineffective.
Can I do DIY fat dissolving?
Absolutely not.
DIY fat dissolving carries serious risks:
- Skin necrosis
- Infection
- Permanent nerve damage
- Facial asymmetry
- Scarring
These products must be injected at specific depths and locations by trained medical professionals.
Never attempt this at home.
Pain, Safety & Side Effects
Does fat dissolving hurt?
Most people describe almost no sensation when appropriately numbed. When done without proper numbing, expect:
- A strong stinging or burning sensation
- Lasting 10–15 minutes
Soreness for 24–48 hours is normal.
The discomfort is temporary and expected.
Why does it burn after treatment?
The burning sensation is normal, but can be easily avoided if properly numbed.
It happens because:
- The treatment is actively breaking down fat cell membranes
- This chemical reaction triggers inflammation
The sensation peaks early and fades quickly.
Are fat dissolving injections safe?
Yes—when performed by an experienced medical practitioner.
That said, all medical treatments carry risks, including:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Temporary numbness
- Temporary nerve irritation
Serious complications are rare when anatomy is respected.
Can it cause nerve damage or an uneven smile?
There is a small risk of temporary irritation to the marginal mandibular nerve, which controls part of the lower lip.
If it occurs:
- It is temporary
- It resolves on its own over weeks
- It does not cause permanent paralysis when correctly performed
Choosing an experienced injector significantly reduces this risk.
Why do I feel hard lumps under my chin?
This is called induration.
It’s part of normal healing and represents:
- Inflammation
- Fat breakdown
- Tissue repair
Lumps typically soften and disappear within 4–6 weeks.
Is trouble swallowing normal?
Significant swelling can cause a tight or full sensation in the throat. However, swallowing should not be difficult.
If you have issues swallowing, speaking, or breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
Swelling & Recovery (The “Bullfrog” Phase)
How long does swelling last?
Typical timeline:
- Days 1–3: Peak swelling
- Days 4–7: Visible but improving
- Weeks 2–4: Residual firmness
- Weeks 4+: Final contour emerges
Swelling is a sign the treatment is working.
What is the “bullfrog neck”?
This nickname describes:
- Short-term fluid expansion under the chin
- The neck appearing wider before it gets slimmer
It is temporary and expected.
How much downtime do I need?
Technically: none.
Socially: 3–5 days is ideal for swelling to fully reduce.
Most patients:
- Work from home
- Wear scarves, high collars, or a mask
- Avoid events for the first few days
How does recovery compare between products?
Recovery timelines are very similar across fat dissolving treatment methods:
- Swelling
- Firmness
- Gradual contouring over weeks
The experience depends more on dose and anatomy than the product.
Lifestyle: When can I…?
Drink alcohol?
Avoid alcohol for 24–48 hours to minimise bruising and swelling.
Exercise?
Avoid intense workouts for 48 hours.
Light walking is fine.
Fly?
The following day, but cabin pressure may slightly increase swelling.
Sleep normally?
Sleep on your back for 3 nights.
Massage the area?
After you’ve healed.
Massage can spread the medication into unintended areas.
Wear makeup?
Avoid makeup on the treated area for 24 hours to reduce infection risk.
Am I a candidate?
Am I suitable for double chin injections?
If you have a small, stubborn pocket of pinchable fat under you chin, then you may be a candidate for fat removal treatment.
Can men have double chin fat dissolved?
Yes, men often have treatment to help define their lower face, when it is obscured by extra chin fat.
Does it work for older patients or loose skin?
Fat dissolving treats fat only.
If loose skin is present, surgery may be a more appropriate option.
What if I have thyroid issues?
If under-chin fullness is caused by fat, treatment is usually fine.
If caused by thyroid enlargement (goitre) injections will not help, and a medical assessment is required.
Is there a BMI limit?
Best results are seen in patients with:
- BMI under 30
- Localised fat, not generalised fullness
Can I have treatment while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding is a contraindication to fat dissolving treatment.
Book your consultation now
Treatments, Sessions & Cost
How many sessions will I need?
Typical guide:
- Mild fat: 2-3 sessions
- Moderate fat: 3–4 sessions
- Severe fat: 4–5 sessions
Sessions are spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
How many vials do I need?
Most treatments involve 2 vials of product – however it depends on which method is used.
Can I get away with just one treatment?
Rarely.
Most patients require at least two sessions for visible, balanced results.
How much does it cost?
The cost for fat dissolving is usually based on:
- Number of sessions required
- Extent of treatment
A personalised assessment is essential for accurate pricing.
At Cosmetic Connection, we offer a flat-fee fat removal package, that covers as many treatments as you need, within a specified timeframe.
Is maintenance required?
No.
Results are permanent because the treatment destroys fat cells—as long as weight remains stable.
Want to know more about double chin fat removal?
Learn more about double chin treatments in our complete double chin treatment guide.
Searching online for “double chin fat removal near me”?
Curious about whether you’re suitable for double chin fat injections? Explore our double chin treatment and start your journey.
