Fat reduction injections
Injections that reduce fullness under the chin, often called a double chin.
- Nurse Practitioner–led
- In Calgary since 2015
- Free 15-minute cosmetic consultationsFree consultations
- 2025 BNS Best in Business
What are fat reduction injections?
Deoxycholic acid is one of the secondary bile acids, made naturally by your body to break down fats for absorption in the intestines. Injected, it breaks up fat cell membranes, making it easier for the body to eliminate stubborn fat. It has been shown to improve moderate to severe fullness under the chin, often called a “double chin”. It has been used for over two decades to shrink lipomas (benign tumours of fat cells), and became commercially available in 2015 to reduce fat deposits under the chin.
The deoxycholic acid breaks down the membranes of the targeted fat cells, causing them to collapse and then be processed and expelled through the body’s normal metabolic processes. Once destroyed, fat cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired result. No aesthetic injection or procedure is a substitute for weight loss, or reduces the importance of a healthy diet and active exercise to maintain a stable weight and avoid new build-up.
Not sure this is the right treatment?
A free 15-minute cosmetic consultation is where every plan starts. How a consultation works
What it treats
- Double chin (fullness under the chin)
Where
- Under the chin
What patients say
Judgment-free
“The entire team is made up of genuinely caring professionals. They are so knowledgeable and skillful, and what really stood out to me was the judgment-free environment they foster.”
A decade
“DermNurse is my go-to place. I’ve been coming here for years and have always been thrilled with the services.”
Integrity
“I love the integrity of DermNurse. The consistency of professionalism and kindness from staff is what keeps me coming back.”
5 years
“Michelle is honest and will always recommend nothing but the best for you.”
What to expect
Consultation
Some clients are comfortable going ahead with treatment right after the consultation, and we allow time for it. If you are not absolutely sure, we encourage you to go home and think about it and book for a later time.
Preparation
The treatment area is marked and a numbing cream is applied.
Injections
Multiple injections with a tiny needle in the targeted area, approximately 40 to 50 depending on its size. The injecting itself takes about 15 minutes, though the appointment is longer to allow for numbing and aftercare. For most clients it is uncomfortable but not painful, and the discomfort is short-lived, around 10 minutes.
Recovery
An ice pack is applied to the injection site. A moderate amount of pain may be felt for the first 15 to 30 minutes, then an aching pain. Swelling usually peaks after a few days and injection-site bruising is common; both should subside within a few weeks, though swelling may last up to a month. The area may look worse before it looks better.
Results
Fat breakdown and removal takes 4 weeks to complete, so results are gradual and natural. A follow-up at 4 weeks assesses the improvement and whether another treatment is needed. Most clients need 2 to 3 sessions, a maximum of 6, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart; once achieved, results may last several years.
FAQ
Will it hurt?
For most clients fat-melting injections are uncomfortable but not painful. The discomfort is usually short-lived, lasting only around 10 minutes.
How long does the treatment take?
The injecting takes about 15 minutes, but appointments are longer to allow for numbing and aftercare.
What happens to the fat?
The deoxycholic acid breaks down the membranes of the targeted fat cells, causing them to collapse and then be processed and expelled through the body’s normal metabolic processes.
Will the fat come back?
Once destroyed, fat cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired result. No aesthetic injection or procedure is a substitute for weight loss, or for a healthy diet and active exercise to maintain a stable weight and avoid new build-up.
When will I see results?
Not immediately: it takes 4 weeks for the process of fat breakdown and removal to complete, and the area may look worse before it looks better. Results are gradual and natural. Book your follow-up at 4 weeks.
How many treatments will I need?
Most clients require 2 to 3 sessions, with a maximum of 6, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Once desired results are achieved they may last several years.
Can I have treatment right after the consultation?
Some clients are comfortable going ahead right after the consultation, and we allow time for this. If you are not absolutely sure, we encourage you to go home and think about it; we are happy to book the treatment at a later time.
What causes a double chin?
Genetics: double chins run in families. Posture: the way you hold your head plays a role, and looking down at a phone does not help; hold your head up straight with your chin pointed slightly down. Age: as skin loses elasticity, drooping skin under the chin can make it look more significant. Weight: excess fat cells lead to submental fullness, and losing extra pounds can make a big difference.
