Fat-Dissolving Injections Compared: Principles and Results of Belkyra and Other Lipolytic Injectables

Fat-dissolving / lipolytic injectables are an effective non-surgical fat-reduction option for improving local fat deposits. Common products include Belkyra (Kybella) and Cellucare, among others. Their principles differ, as do the people they are suitable for.

Belkyra

Produced by Allergan in the USA, it is certified by the US FDA and EU EMA. The patented ingredient deoxycholic acid (DCA) disrupts the fat-cell membrane, leading to irreversible fat-cell breakdown and permanently reducing the number of fat cells in a double chin.

• Administered by hand as dotted injections, 0.2 cc per point, 1 cm apart
• 2–3 sessions are needed, 1 month apart
• Treatment time is about 10–20 minutes
• Best results appear about 2 months after the course; clinically followed results have lasted up to 5 years

Cellucare

Produced by REVITACARE in France, CE-certified. Ingredients are hyaluronic acid, caffeine and micromolecular nutrients. Caffeine accelerates fat-cell metabolism, breaking down triglycerides; combined with hyaluronic acid, clearance is smoother, so fat-cell volume is reduced.

• Suitable for chubby cheeks, double chin, arms, back, abdomen, waist, buttocks, thighs and others
• 4–8 sessions are needed, 8–10 days apart
• Treatment time is about 5–10 minutes
• Best results appear about 2–3 weeks after the course, lasting about 2 years

Comparison of the two

Downtime and side effects

• Belkyra: swelling peaks 24–48 hours after injection; chin swelling gradually settles over an average of 7–14 days; more than 80% of adverse reactions recover within 30 days
• Cellucare: slight redness and swelling, settling in a few hours to a few days; coffee and other caffeine-containing foods are not recommended on the day
• Most patients can resume daily activities immediately after treatment

Contraindications

• Those allergic to the product ingredients, or with bleeding or coagulation disorders, are not suitable
• Those with excessive skin laxity and obvious vertical neck lines have limited results
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not suitable
• Those with a history of asymmetric smile, facial muscle weakness or paralysis, or swallowing difficulty should proceed with caution

Once fat cells are destroyed, results are usually lasting, but a healthy lifestyle is still needed to maintain them.