Deoxycholic acid is an injectable substance indicated for reducing submental fat in adults, also known as double chin or double chin, being a non-invasive and safer solution than surgery, with visible results from the first applications.
This treatment can be carried out in beauty clinics by a doctor or in a dental clinic by a dentist, and the price of each application varies from person to person, depending on the amount of fat or the region to be treated, for example, Therefore, it is advisable to first carry out an evaluation with a doctor.
Discover other treatments to eliminate a double chin.
What is it for
Deoxycholic acid is a molecule that is present in the human body, in bile salts, and serves to metabolize fats. When applied to the jowl region, this substance destroys fat cells, also known as adipocytes, stimulating an inflammatory response in the body, which will help eliminate cellular waste and pieces of fat in the region.
As adipocytes are destroyed, less fat will accumulate in this location and results may be visible approximately 30 days after the procedure.
How the application is made
Deoxycholic acid must be administered by a healthcare professional, and a topical anesthetic may be applied beforehand to reduce the pain of the injection. The recommended dose is around 6 applications of 10 mL, spaced at least one month apart, however the number of applications will also depend on the amount of fat the person has.
Deoxycholic acid is injected into the subcutaneous adipose tissue, in the jowl region, using a dose of 2 mg/cm2, divided into 50 injections, maximum of 0.2 mL each, up to a total of 10 mL, spaced 1 cm apart. .
The region close to the marginal mandibular nerve should be avoided, in order to avoid injuries to this nerve, which can cause asymmetry in the smile.
When it is not indicated
Injectable deoxycholic acid is contraindicated in the presence of infection at the injection site and in people under 18 years of age. Furthermore, it should not be used by pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding, as there are not enough studies to prove its safety.
Possible side effects
Side effects that may occur with the use of deoxycholic acid are swelling, hematoma, pain, numbness, erythema, hardness at the injection site and, more rarely, difficulty swallowing. Additionally, although rare, there is a risk of jaw nerve damage and infection.
