Fat Dissolving Injections in Korea 2025: Complete Guide to Kybella, Belkyra & Double Chin Treatment
Struggling with a stubborn double chin that won't budge despite diet and exercise? Fat dissolving injections offer a non-surgical solution to reduce localized fat deposits, particularly under the chin. This comprehensive guide covers everything about getting fat dissolving treatments in Korea.
What Are Fat Dissolving Injections?
Fat dissolving injections (also called lipolytic injections) use active ingredients to destroy fat cells in targeted areas. The most well-known ingredient is deoxycholic acid (DCA) – a naturally occurring bile acid that breaks down dietary fat.
When injected into fat deposits, DCA disrupts fat cell membranes, causing them to release their contents and die. The body then naturally eliminates the destroyed fat cells over several weeks.
FDA-Approved Option: Kybella/Belkyra
- Kybella (USA brand name)
- Belkyra (International brand name, including Korea)
- Manufacturer: Allergan (now AbbVie)
- FDA Approved: April 2015
- Approved For: Submental fat (double chin)
Belkyra/Kybella is the only FDA-approved injectable for reducing moderate-to-severe submental fat. It's approved in 24+ countries worldwide.
Fat Dissolving Injection Prices in Korea 2025
Branded Treatments (Belkyra/Kybella)
| Treatment | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Belkyra 1 vial (2ml) | ₩200,000-400,000 | $155-310 |
| Belkyra per session | ₩300,000-500,000 | $230-385 |
| Package (3 sessions) | ₩700,000-1,200,000 | $540-925 |
Korean Alternatives (Contouring Injections)
| Treatment | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| V-Line injection (basic) | ₩50,000-100,000 | $40-77 |
| Contouring injection | ₩80,000-200,000 | $60-155 |
| Premium fat dissolving | ₩150,000-300,000 | $115-230 |
| Double chin treatment | ₩100,000-250,000 | $77-190 |
By Treatment Area
| Area | Price Range (USD) | Sessions Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Double chin | $77-385 | 2-4 |
| Jowls | $60-200 | 2-3 |
| Cheeks (buccal fat area) | $100-300 | 2-4 |
| Jawline contouring | $80-250 | 2-3 |
Prices as of November 2025.
Korea vs. World Prices
| Country | Kybella (per session) | Savings vs Korea |
|---|---|---|
| Korea | $230-385 | — |
| USA | $1,200-1,800 | 75-85% |
| UK | $800-1,500 | 70-75% |
| Australia | $600-1,200 | 60-70% |
How Fat Dissolving Injections Work
The Science
- Injection: DCA solution injected into fat deposits
- Cell Disruption: DCA breaks down fat cell membranes
- Fat Release: Triglycerides released from damaged cells
- Cell Death: Fat cells undergo apoptosis (programmed death)
- Elimination: Body's lymphatic system removes debris
- Permanent Results: Destroyed fat cells don't regenerate
Active Ingredients
| Ingredient | Mechanism | Products |
|---|---|---|
| Deoxycholic Acid (DCA) | Destroys fat cell membranes | Kybella, Belkyra, V-Ollet |
| Phosphatidylcholine (PPC) | Emulsifies fat | Many Korean products |
| PPC + DCA combination | Dual action | Various formulations |
Treatment Areas
FDA-Approved Area
| Area | Approval Status | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Submental (double chin) | FDA approved | ★★★★☆ |
Off-Label Areas (Common in Korea)
| Area | Effectiveness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jowls | ★★★☆☆ | Moderate results |
| Cheeks | ★★★☆☆ | Careful dosing needed |
| Jawline | ★★★☆☆ | Contouring effect |
| Body areas | ★★☆☆☆ | Limited effectiveness |
Important: FDA approval is specifically for submental (under chin) fat. Other areas are considered off-label use.
Kybella/Belkyra vs. Korean Alternatives
Branded (Belkyra)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| FDA approved | More expensive |
| Extensive clinical trials | Same active ingredient |
| Standardized formulation | Limited to submental area |
| Proven safety profile | Requires multiple sessions |
Korean Alternatives (V-Ollet, etc.)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower cost | Less clinical data |
| KFDA approved options | Variable formulations |
| Often combined with other ingredients | Results may vary |
| Flexible treatment areas | Not FDA approved |
V-Ollet (브이올렛)
A Korean KFDA-approved double chin treatment:
- Active ingredient: Deoxycholic acid (DCA)
- Clinical trials on Korean patients
- Comparable mechanism to Belkyra
- Often more affordable
The Treatment Experience
Before Treatment
- Avoid blood thinners for 1 week
- No alcohol 24-48 hours before
- Disclose all medications
- Set realistic expectations
During Treatment
Step 1: Consultation (15-20 min)
- Assessment of fat deposits
- Treatment planning
- Photo documentation
Step 2: Marking (5 min)
- Grid pattern drawn on treatment area
- Injection points mapped
Step 3: Numbing (Optional, 10-15 min)
- Topical anesthetic
- Ice application
- Some products contain lidocaine
Step 4: Injection (15-20 min)
- Multiple small injections (12-50 per session)
- Spacing typically 1cm apart
- 0.2ml per injection point
Step 5: Massage (5 min)
- Gentle massage to distribute product
- Ice application to reduce swelling
Total time: 45-60 minutes
Pain Level
| Phase | Pain Rating | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Injection | 3-5/10 | Stinging, burning sensation |
| Post-treatment | 4-6/10 | Throbbing, tenderness |
| Days 1-3 | 3-4/10 | Soreness, tightness |
Pain is typically the most significant downside of this treatment.
Recovery & Downtime
Expected Side Effects
| Side Effect | Duration | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Swelling | 1-2 weeks | Significant |
| Bruising | 1-2 weeks | Common |
| Numbness | 1-4 weeks | Temporary |
| Tenderness | 2-4 weeks | Moderate |
| Firmness/nodules | 2-6 weeks | Temporary |
Recovery Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Maximum swelling ("bullfrog" appearance) |
| Day 4-7 | Swelling decreasing, bruising visible |
| Week 2 | Significant improvement in swelling |
| Week 3-4 | Most swelling resolved |
| Week 6-8 | Final results from session visible |
Important Note on Swelling
The swelling after fat dissolving injections is significant – often described as "bullfrog chin." This is normal and indicates the treatment is working, but plan accordingly:
- Avoid important events for 2 weeks
- Work-from-home days helpful
- Swelling is worse than most other injectables
Results & Expectations
Realistic Outcomes
| Expectation | Reality |
|---|---|
| "Dramatic transformation" | Moderate improvement (20-30% reduction) |
| "One session cure" | 2-4 sessions typically needed |
| "Permanent results" | Yes, if weight stable |
| "No downtime" | 1-2 weeks significant swelling |
Treatment Protocol
| Session | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Initial | Assess response |
| 2nd | 4-6 weeks later | Build on results |
| 3rd | 4-6 weeks after 2nd | If needed |
| 4th | 4-6 weeks after 3rd | Maximum usually |
Most patients see optimal results after 2-4 sessions.
Results Timeline
| Timeframe | Changes |
|---|---|
| Week 1-2 | Swelling (looks worse) |
| Week 3-4 | Swelling resolves |
| Week 6-8 | Results becoming visible |
| Month 3 | Full results from session |
| After series | Final outcome |
Who Should Consider Fat Dissolving Injections?
Ideal Candidates
- Moderate submental fat: Not excessive, not minimal
- Good skin elasticity: Skin will retract after fat loss
- Stable weight: Not planning significant weight changes
- Realistic expectations: Understand moderate improvement
- Willing to accept downtime: Can handle 1-2 weeks swelling
Good Candidates
- Stubborn double chin despite healthy weight
- Genetic fat deposits: Family tendency
- Non-surgical preference: Avoiding liposuction
- Younger patients: Better skin elasticity
Not Recommended For
- Excessive fat: May need liposuction
- Poor skin elasticity: Risk of sagging
- Active infections: In treatment area
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Difficulty swallowing: Pre-existing condition
- Previous neck surgery: Near treatment area
When Liposuction Might Be Better
| Consider Liposuction If | Why |
|---|---|
| Large fat deposits | More effective for significant volume |
| Poor skin quality | Can combine with skin tightening |
| Want single treatment | One procedure vs. multiple sessions |
| Body areas | Injections less effective on body |
Safety Considerations
Known Risks
| Risk | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Swelling | Very common | Expected, temporary |
| Bruising | Very common | 1-2 weeks |
| Pain | Very common | During and after |
| Numbness | Common | Usually temporary |
| Nodules | Common | Resolve over weeks |
| Nerve injury | Rare (~4%) | Can affect smile temporarily |
| Skin necrosis | Very rare | Serious complication |
| Infection | Very rare | Requires treatment |
NECA (Korea Health Technology Assessment) Findings
The Korean National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency found:
- Short-term effectiveness in some studies
- Long-term effectiveness unclear in many studies
- Serious side effects rare but documented
- Recommends informed decision-making
Minimizing Risks
- Choose experienced providers: Technique matters
- Use approved products: Kybella/Belkyra or KFDA-approved
- Proper patient selection: Not everyone is a candidate
- Realistic expectations: Moderate, not dramatic results
Top Seoul Clinics for Fat Dissolving
1. Toxnfill (톡스앤필)
- Location: Multiple Seoul branches
- Specialty: Contouring injections
- Price Range: ₩80,000-200,000
- Why Choose: Affordable packages, experienced
2. Barabom Skin Clinic (바라봄피부과)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: Fat dissolving protocols
- Price Range: ₩150,000-350,000
- Why Choose: Comprehensive approach
3. Dr. PRS Clinic
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: Belkyra treatments
- Price Range: ₩250,000-450,000
- Why Choose: Uses branded products
4. Medinoble Clinic (메디노블)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: V-Ollet treatments
- Price Range: ₩150,000-300,000
- Why Choose: Korean KFDA products
5. Premium Dermatology Clinics
- Location: Gangnam, Cheongdam
- Products: Belkyra, V-Ollet
- Price Range: ₩300,000-500,000
- Why Choose: Premium service, latest protocols
Alternatives to Fat Dissolving Injections
For Double Chin
| Treatment | Mechanism | Downtime | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fat dissolving injection | Chemical destruction | 1-2 weeks | ★★★☆☆ |
| Liposuction | Surgical removal | 1-2 weeks | ★★★★★ |
| CoolSculpting | Fat freezing | Minimal | ★★★☆☆ |
| HIFU (chin) | Ultrasound tightening | None | ★★☆☆☆ |
| RF treatments | Heat-based tightening | None | ★★☆☆☆ |
Comparison
| Factor | Fat Dissolving | Liposuction | CoolSculpting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Minimally | Surgical | Non-invasive |
| Sessions | 2-4 | 1 | 1-2 |
| Downtime | 1-2 weeks | 1-2 weeks | None |
| Results | Moderate | Significant | Moderate |
| Price (Korea) | $230-385/session | $800-2,000 | $300-600 |
Maximizing Results
Before Treatment
- Maintain stable weight
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid blood thinners
- Set realistic expectations
After Treatment
Days 1-3:
- Ice application (20 min on/off)
- Sleep elevated
- Avoid strenuous activity
- Take pain medication as needed
Week 1-2:
- Gentle massage if recommended
- Avoid heat (sauna, hot yoga)
- Compression may help
- Be patient with swelling
Ongoing:
- Maintain healthy weight
- Complete recommended sessions
- Follow-up appointments
Combination Approaches
| Combo | Benefit | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Fat dissolving + HIFU | Reduce + tighten | 4-6 weeks apart |
| Fat dissolving + Thread lift | Reduce + lift | 4-6 weeks apart |
| Fat dissolving + RF | Reduce + tighten skin | 2-4 weeks apart |
FAQ
Q: How many sessions do I need? A: Most patients need 2-4 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Some see satisfactory results after 2 sessions; others need the maximum 6.
Q: Does it really work? A: Results vary. Clinical trials show 70-80% of patients see improvement after multiple sessions. However, results are moderate, not dramatic. A 20-30% reduction in fat is typical.
Q: How painful is it? A: This is one of the more uncomfortable injectable treatments. Expect burning/stinging during injection and soreness for several days after. Pain medication helps.
Q: How long does swelling last? A: Significant swelling lasts 1-2 weeks. The "bullfrog chin" appearance in the first few days is normal. Plan for social downtime.
Q: Are results permanent? A: Yes, destroyed fat cells don't regenerate. However, remaining fat cells can enlarge with weight gain. Maintain stable weight for lasting results.
Q: Kybella or Korean alternatives? A: Kybella/Belkyra has more clinical data and FDA approval. Korean alternatives like V-Ollet are KFDA-approved and more affordable. Both use the same active ingredient (DCA).
Q: Can it cause nerve damage? A: Temporary nerve effects (affecting smile) occur in about 4% of patients. This typically resolves within weeks to months. Permanent damage is very rare.
Q: Is it better than liposuction? A: For mild-moderate double chin with good skin elasticity, fat dissolving injections are a reasonable non-surgical option. For significant fat or poor skin quality, liposuction typically provides better results.
Conclusion
Fat dissolving injections offer a non-surgical option for reducing stubborn double chin fat, with Korean clinics providing access to both FDA-approved Kybella/Belkyra and affordable Korean alternatives at 60-85% less than Western prices.
However, this treatment requires realistic expectations: results are moderate (not dramatic), multiple sessions are needed, and downtime from swelling is significant. It works best for patients with mild-moderate submental fat and good skin elasticity.
For the right candidate, fat dissolving injections can provide meaningful improvement without surgery. For those with significant fat deposits or skin laxity, surgical options may be more appropriate.
Considering fat dissolving treatment? Book a consultation at a Seoul dermatology clinic to assess whether you're a good candidate and discuss the best approach for your goals.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about fat dissolving injections. It is not intended as medical advice. Results vary significantly by individual. All medical procedures carry risks including rare but serious complications. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
Last Updated: November 2025 Reading Time: 12 minutes