Deoxycholic acid is a molecule that exists naturally within the human body. This substance is a type of bile acid, a family of molecules produced by the liver that are involved in digestion. Specifically, deoxycholic acid is a secondary bile acid, meaning the body does not create it directly. Instead, it is formed through the metabolic activity of bacteria residing in the intestines.
The Natural Function of Deoxycholic Acid
In its natural capacity, deoxycholic acid has a specific role in the digestive process. As a secondary bile acid synthesized from primary bile acids by gut bacteria, its main purpose is to assist in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats within the intestine. It accomplishes this through a process called emulsification, helping to break down large globules of fat into much smaller droplets.
This action increases the surface area of the fats, making them more accessible to digestive enzymes. These enzymes can then more effectively process the fats, allowing the body to absorb necessary fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins.
Injectable Deoxycholic Acid for Fat Reduction
A synthetic, bioidentical version of deoxycholic acid has been developed for use in aesthetic medicine. This injectable form is used for reducing localized fat deposits. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use for treating moderate to severe submental fat, the area commonly referred to as a “double chin.” This treatment is marketed under the brand name Kybella.
The mechanism behind its effectiveness involves a process known as adipocytolysis. When injected directly into subcutaneous fat tissue, the deoxycholic acid disrupts and destroys the cell membranes of adipocytes, or fat cells. This action causes the targeted fat cells to release their contents, which are then cleared away by the body’s natural metabolic pathways.
Once these fat cells are destroyed, they lose their ability to store or accumulate fat. This leads to a visible reduction in fullness in the treated area. The results are considered long-lasting because the eliminated fat cells are not expected to regenerate.
What to Expect During Treatment
The process for receiving deoxycholic acid injections begins with an initial consultation. A healthcare provider will assess the patient’s submental area to determine if they are a suitable candidate, considering factors like the amount of fat and skin laxity. This meeting is also a time to discuss aesthetic goals.
During the treatment session, the provider will first cleanse the area under the chin. To guide the injections, a grid pattern is often marked on the skin. To manage potential discomfort, a topical numbing agent or a cold pack may be applied before the injections begin.
The provider then administers a series of small injections into the fat tissue at each marked point. A session can involve 20 to 50 injections and takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Achieving the desired profile often requires multiple treatments, which are spaced at least one month apart. Many patients receive between two and six treatments.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Following treatment with injectable deoxycholic acid, patients can expect common side effects at the injection site. The most frequently reported effects include:
- Significant swelling
- Bruising
- Pain
- Numbness
- Redness
Swelling is an expected part of the body’s inflammatory response to the destruction of fat cells, and these side effects are temporary, resolving as the area heals.
While most side effects are moderate, there are less common but more serious risks. A potential complication is temporary nerve injury in the jaw, which can result in an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness. Other risks include difficulty swallowing and, in rare cases, skin tissue damage if the substance is injected improperly.
To ensure safety, the procedure must be performed by a qualified healthcare professional. It is important to seek a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with specific experience administering this injectable. Their understanding of facial anatomy is necessary to avoid complications and ensure the deoxycholic acid is placed correctly.