What is Aqualyx?
Aqualyx is a brand of fat dissolving injections which has been available since 2009. Over 2 million vials have been used for patient treatments in more than 49 countries worldwide.
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Aqualyx is an aqueous micro gelatinous solution enriched with sodium deoxycholate, which liquifies fat cells and permanently destroys them. The lipids are released and eliminated through the lymphatic system.
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The solution is injected into the subcutaneous fatty layer of the skin, in areas such as the stomach, waist, hips, thighs, upper arms, back and chin. Most stubborn areas of fat are suitable for treatment, and it is also used to treat pseudo-gynaecomastia in men.
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As an alternative to liposuction or laser lipo treatments, Aqualyx is less invasive and generally well tolerated among patients.
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This treatment is not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an auto-immune disease, lipodystrophy, diabetes, liver disease or kidney disease.
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What should I expect?
A reduction in fat deposits can be seen 4 weeks after just one treatment, but a minimum of 2 treatments is usually required for each area. More treatments may be needed depending on the size of the targeted area, with between 3 and 8 sessions needed for optimal results for larger areas. The treatment is repeated every 4 weeks.
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The destruction of fat cells is permanent, however if patients gain weight in future, the treatment may need to be repeated.
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No medical procedure is without risk, and you will discuss these thoroughly with your practitioner in your consultation prior to treatment. Some swelling, redness and tenderness is to be expected in the first week - patients often describe a warm burning sensation as the fat cells are broken down. Other risks of Aqualyx include: bruising, bleeding, numbness, oedema, infection, nerve damage, necrosis and allergic reaction. To minimise these risks, choose a practitioner with suitable qualifications, training, and experience.
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Please note: this treatment is designed to tackle stubborn pockets of fat and is not an alternative to weight loss through diet and exercise; it is still important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Results are likely to be much less noticeable in patients with a high BMI.
Post-Treatment Advice
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It is normal to have red bumps and bruise after treatment. This will settle with time. The area may feel tender and firm for up to 8 weeks.
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Apply pressure for the first 48 hours to reduce pain and swelling. Swelling is more apparent if the chin is treated and can be noticeably swollen for around 5 days.
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Massage the area regularly for 2 to 3 weeks to help lymphatic drainage
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Do not apply make up to the area for the first 24 hours
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Avoid extreme heat for 1 week post-treatment (i.e. hot baths, saunas, steam rooms)
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Do not carry out heavy exercise for 1 week
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Avoid sunlight/UV radiation for 4 weeks
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Avoid laser, cryolipolysis and radiofrequency treatments for 2 weeks
