Body, Hair & Laser
Deoxycholine
Injections that may reduce small pockets of fat, like under the chin.
At a glance
- Session
- 20–30 min
- Recovery
- Swelling often 1–2 weeks or longer
- Results
- 4–8 weeks after each session
- Sessions
- 2–6
Treatment duration, downtime, visible results and recommended sessions are approximate and vary from person to person. Your provider confirms them at your consultation.
What it is
Deoxycholine is a compounded, deoxycholic acid–based injectable for small, localized pockets of fat. It works by disrupting the membrane of fat cells in the treated area, and the body then gradually processes them over time.
It's most often used for fullness under the chin, and on selected areas of the body as determined by your provider. It isn't a weight-loss treatment, and results develop gradually as the area heals.
Concerns it treats
Treatment areas
- Under the chin
- Neck
- Selected body areas
Options
Kybella®
Synthetic deoxycholic acid, used to reduce fullness under the chin (the "double chin").
Deoxycholine
A similar lipolytic injection that breaks down fat cells, used for the chin and other small pockets of fat your provider selects.
Who it may suit
- Adults with localized fullness under the chin
- People with small, stubborn pockets of fat who are near a stable weight
- Anyone who wants a non-surgical option with good skin elasticity
Why patients choose it
- Targets fat cells in the treated area
- May improve definition of the jawline and under the chin
- Non-surgical, with no incisions or general anesthesia
- Customized to your anatomy and goals
- Results develop gradually as the area heals
- Can be part of a wider facial contouring plan
What to consider
- Swelling is common and can be significant, especially under the chin
- Bruising, redness, tenderness, numbness or firmness may occur
- More than one session may be needed, and results vary
- It's not for overall weight loss or for loose skin
- A professional evaluation determines whether you're a good candidate
- Rare but potentially significant complications can occur
Before your visit
- Unless your doctor prescribed them, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, ginkgo and St. John's wort for 10 days
- Don't stop a prescribed blood thinner without your doctor's approval
- Tell us at least a week ahead if you get cold sores
- Plan for bruising and swelling that may last about a week
After your treatment
- Protect the area from the sun and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours
- Use gentle products and skip exfoliants on the area for a week
- Don't massage or press on the area unless your provider tells you to
- Drink plenty of water
- Watch the area for unusual reactions or lasting symptoms and contact us if needed
Your provider will give you instructions for your own treatment plan.
Before and after
Mia Piel patients
Before and after: Mia Piel patients:1of1
Results vary. Individual results may differ.
Frequently asked questions
What is Deoxycholine?
An injectable treatment based on deoxycholic acid, used to reduce small, localized pockets of fat. It disrupts fat cells in the treated area, which the body then processes over time.
Is it a weight-loss treatment?
No. It's designed for localized fat reduction, not overall weight loss.
Does it hurt?
You may feel burning, stinging, pressure or discomfort during and after the injections. Comfort measures may be used as appropriate.
How much swelling should I expect?
Swelling can be significant, especially under the chin, and may last several days or longer. How much and for how long varies from person to person.
Will the fat come back?
The treated fat cells are processed by the body, but the remaining fat cells can grow with weight gain. Keeping a stable weight may help preserve your results.
Can it tighten loose skin?
No. Its purpose is reducing localized fat, not tightening skin. If loose skin is your main concern, your provider may suggest a different or complementary treatment.
Can it treat a double chin?
Yes. It may suit adults with localized fullness under the chin who are good candidates for injectable fat reduction.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on the amount of fullness, how you respond and your goals. Two to six sessions is a common range.
When will I see results?
Gradually, as the area heals and the body processes the treated fat cells, often 4–8 weeks after each session.
Is it right for everyone with a double chin?
No. Fullness under the chin can come from fat, loose skin or anatomy. A consultation finds the most appropriate treatment.
Book a consultation
Message us on WhatsApp
We usually reply the same working day.
Please don’t send medical details by message. Your health information stays protected at the clinic, as HIPAA requires.