About Aqualyx Fat-Dissolving Injections

Sometimes, despite rigorous exercise and strict dieting, fat in certain regions—such as beneath the chin or around the hips—refuses to budge. While liposuction is a long-established choice, injectable therapies have emerged as another method to dissolve localized fat. One such option is Aqualyx solution.

Aqualyx has not received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so it’s primarily available in countries outside the United States, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Italy. That said, it bears resemblance to another product that is accessible in the United States, so we’ll compare both where relevant.

What is Aqualyx?

Aqualyx is an injectable formulation derived from the deoxycholate family of acids. It’s sometimes referred to as Motolese’s Solution, named after the professor who introduced the compound.

The acids in Aqualyx prompt the breakdown of fat cells. Plastic surgeons use it for body-sculpting purposes and may inject it into multiple areas, such as:

• back
• chin
• hips
• knees
• abdomen
• thighs

Clinicians may also apply Aqualyx to treat pseudo-gynecomastia in men, a condition characterized by excess fatty tissue in the chest that mimics a breast-like appearance.

When Aqualyx is injected into targeted zones, it can diminish localized fat deposits, producing a smoother, more contoured look. While some improvement can be visible after a single session, multiple treatments are typically necessary to achieve optimal outcomes.

Aqualyx ingredients

Aqualyx is composed of the following components:

• buffering agents
• a modified form of deoxycholic acid
• additional sugars
• sodium chloride
• water

Who is a suitable candidate for Aqualyx?

Aqualyx is intended for individuals who have good skin elasticity. This often (but not exclusively) applies to people aged 18 to 60. Without adequate elasticity, treated skin could look lax or saggy after the injections.

What can you expect during Aqualyx injections?

Procedures vary by clinic, but the typical steps for receiving Aqualyx injections include:

1. Your physician will review your aesthetic goals and medical history.
2. The treatment area will be cleansed.
3. A local anesthetic will be given to numb the site and minimize discomfort.
4. The Aqualyx solution will be injected into the designated region. The volume and number of injections depend on the specific area treated.
5. Your doctor may use ultrasound imaging to help ensure the Aqualyx is evenly distributed within the target zone.

The session normally lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. Patients may need up to eight sessions to attain the fullest results.

After Aqualyx dissolves the unwanted fat, the reduction is believed to be permanent. However, significant weight gain after treatment can reduce or reverse the visible benefits.

What are the possible drawbacks of Aqualyx?

Aqualyx can produce side effects, which a physician should review prior to treatment. Common adverse effects include:

• bruising
• redness
• skin irritation
• swelling

Less commonly, scarring has been reported, though it does not appear to be frequent. There is also a risk of allergic reaction to one or more ingredients within Aqualyx.

How much does Aqualyx cost?

Because Aqualyx is not sold in the United States, obtaining an exact price is challenging. The final cost varies based on the amount of Aqualyx required, the surgeon’s fees, local anesthetic expenses, and how many treatment sessions are necessary.

According to RealSelf, the typical price per Aqualyx session is roughly $1,000, although reported costs can range as high as $2,725.

Some clinics bill by vial while others charge by the treated area. If multiple sessions are needed, providers may offer package pricing or discounts.

Where can I locate a qualified provider for Aqualyx?

Because Aqualyx lacks FDA approval in the United States, it isn’t commonly available through U.S. physicians. The product is used across Europe and in several other countries, but finding an American practitioner offering it would be rare.

Some clinicians worldwide may use Aqualyx off-label for fat reduction. However, the absence of FDA approval means the treatment has not undergone the same level of testing the FDA mandates.

How does Aqualyx compare with Kybella?

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable designed to reduce submental fat (the fat beneath the chin). It provides a non-surgical alternative to procedures such as:

• liposuction
• fat excision
• neck reconstruction

Kybella contains sodium deoxycholate, which leads to fat cell destruction. The active compound is related to deoxycholic acid, a bile acid that disrupts fat cell membranes and induces cell death. Aqualyx is a derivative of deoxycholic acid but differs slightly in formulation.

Like Aqualyx, Kybella is injected subcutaneously to treat a double chin. Treatments are typically given at roughly four-week intervals until the desired contour is reached.

Common side effects of Kybella include bruising, numbness, and swelling. Proper patient selection—good skin elasticity and stable body weight—is important for optimal results.

Takeaway

Although Aqualyx is not available in the United States, you may encounter discussions about it or access the treatment when traveling abroad.

Alongside the FDA-approved option Kybella, Aqualyx offers a less invasive alternative to liposuction for people with good skin elasticity who maintain a steady weight.

Anyone considering Aqualyx injections should thoroughly review the potential risks and benefits with a qualified physician before proceeding.