Fat-Dissolving Injections – A Comparison of European and South Korean/East Asian Brands

In recent years, fat-dissolving injections have gained popularity as a non-surgical alternative to fat reduction. The global market for lipolysis injections was valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2022 and is growing at an average annual rate (CAGR) of about 8.2%. These treatments, also known as lipolysis injections, target fat cells in specific areas of the body, breaking them down and allowing the body to naturally eliminate them. However, there are significant differences between products from European and South Korean or East Asian brands. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of fat-dissolving injections, their differences, and the development of these treatments.

Who Are Fat-Dissolving Injections For?

Fat-dissolving injections are ideal for people struggling with stubborn fat deposits despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The treatment is particularly suitable for individuals with a normal to slightly elevated body mass index (BMI of 20–27) who wish to reduce small to medium-sized fat pockets in specific areas. Typical treatment areas include the double chin, inner thighs, lower abdomen, hips, and upper arms.

The ideal candidates are:

✅ Individuals with localized fat deposits that are resistant to exercise and diet.

✅ Patients with elastic skin that will retract well after the treatment.

✅ People seeking a non-invasive alternative to liposuction.

✅ Those not expecting significant weight fluctuations or major weight loss.

Not suitable for:

❌ People with obesity (BMI over 30).

❌ Individuals with poor skin elasticity, which could lead to sagging skin after treatment.

❌ Those with active infections or skin conditions in the treatment area.

❌ People with severe liver or metabolic diseases.

💡 Fat-dissolving injections are primarily designed for targeted body contouring – not general weight loss. The best results are achieved when the treatment is combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Comparison of Popular Fat-Dissolving Injections

Here’s a detailed comparison of the most widely used fat-dissolving products from Europe and Asia: (scroll sideways to see full table)

Brand	Origin	Active Ingredient	Treatment Areas	Effectiveness	Number of Sessions	Side Effects	Cost per Session	FDA Approved?
Kybella	USA (Popular in Asia)	Deoxycholic acid (10 mg/ml)	Double chin	20–25% fat reduction	2–4 sessions, 4 weeks apart	Swelling, redness, numbness (3–5 days)	€400–€600	✅
Aqualyx	Italy	Deoxycholic acid	Chin, abdomen, thighs, arms	20–30% fat reduction	3–4 sessions, 4 weeks apart	Mild swelling, redness, tenderness (24–48 hrs)	€300–€600	❌
Lipostabil	Germany	Phosphatidylcholine	Larger fat deposits (e.g., abdomen, hips)	15–25% fat reduction	2–3 sessions, 4 weeks apart	Bruising, mild pain (2–3 days)	€400–€700	❌
LipoLab	South Korea	Phosphatidylcholine + deoxycholic acid	Abdomen, thighs, arms	25–30% fat reduction	2–3 sessions, 4 weeks apart	Mild swelling, warming sensation (1–2 days)	€100–€300	❌
Lemon Bottle	South Korea	Plant extracts + enzymes	Abdomen, thighs, arms	Visible results after 2–3 sessions	2–3 sessions, 3 weeks apart	Mild swelling, redness, bruising (1–2 days)	€100–€250	❌
DesoBody	Italy	Sodium deoxycholate	Abdomen, flanks, thighs	20–25% fat reduction	2–4 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart	Swelling, redness (2–4 days)	€250–€500	❌

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While fat-dissolving injections offer a non-surgical alternative to fat reduction, they are not without risks. Some potential side effects and complications include:

Potential Risk	Description	Frequency
Swelling and Bruising	Mild swelling and bruising at the injection site, typically lasting a few days.	Common
Redness and Tenderness	Mild irritation and sensitivity in the treated area.	Common
Lumps and Nodules	Hardening or uneven texture in the treated area.	Uncommon
Nerve Damage	Temporary or permanent numbness due to damage to surrounding nerves.	Rare
Infection	Redness, heat, and pus at the injection site, requiring antibiotics.	Rare
Skin Necrosis	Tissue death due to compromised blood flow (in extreme cases).	Very Rare

💡 Unapproved or low-quality products increase the risk of complications. The FDA has warned against unregulated fat-dissolving injections, which can cause permanent scarring, cysts, or deep painful knots. Always ensure that treatments are performed by a qualified medical professional using approved products.

The Development of Fat-Dissolving Injections

The technology behind fat-dissolving injections has advanced significantly over the years. While early treatments were often painful and involved long recovery times, modern products are much gentler and more effective. European brands have set the standard for safety and precision, while Asian brands have focused on innovation and speed.

Combination Therapies

An important trend is combining fat-dissolving injections with other treatments, such as:

• Radiofrequency (RF): Enhances fat reduction and tightens skin – up to 40% greater effectiveness.

• Ultrasound: Stimulates fat cell breakdown and enhances absorption – increases fat reduction by 15–20%.

• Cryolipolysis (fat freezing): Complementary to injections for larger areas of fat – increases overall fat reduction by 20–30%.

Whether European or Asian brands – both have their pros and cons. European products offer safety and precision, while Asian brands are known for innovation and quick results. While European treatments typically achieve a 20–30% reduction in fat after several sessions, Asian products often achieve similar results faster and at a lower cost. Ultimately, choosing the right product depends on your individual needs and goals. Always consult a qualified specialist to find the best option for you.

LIVA Beauthic

Sources:

¹ Aesthetic Medicine Market Report, 2022² Aqualyx Treatment Study, 2021³ Lipostabil Efficacy Study, 2020⁴ Asian Aesthetic Market Report, 2023⁵ Kybella Clinical Study, 2019⁶ LipoLab Performance Study, 2021⁷ Combination of Lipolysis and Radiofrequency, 2022