HIFU Versus Fat Dissolving Injections such as Lemon Bottle Fat Dissolving & Aqualyx

Fat dissolving injections have received a lot of interest over recent months. Lemon Bottle has gone viral (The Guardian) with bold claims of instant results. Aqualyx is another popular option seen in the UK. But how do they compare to HIFU for the treatment of stubborn fat and cellulite that can not be easily shifted with exercise?

While fat-dissolving injections, such as Lemon Bottle and Aqualyx, are widely available in the UK, neither is approved by the FDA or NICE. Fat-dissolving injections should not be confused with weight-loss injections. NICE has recently approved the weight-loss injection Wegovy (semaglutide) for NHS use in certain situations for the treatment of obesity. This works by a very different mechanism to help with overall weight loss. Semaglutide suppresses appetite by mimicking the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is released after eating. It makes people who use it feel full, thereby reducing their overall calorie intake.

Fat Dissolving Injections compared to HIFU

Fat-dissolving injections, such as Lemon Bottle and Aqualux, involve injecting a solution into the body to break down fat in the desired area. Whereas HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) uses high-intensity sound waves to painlessly break down unwanted fat whilst also tightening skin. Traditional HIFU is known to be painful, but Fiji Skin Clinic has invested in the latest technology that delivers energy to the precise area, making it not only more effective but also pain-free. As seen in the before & after photo, HIFU contours the face by creating an eyelift and tightening the skin around the jowls and chin. The skin-tightening effects of HIFU are superior to those of fat-dissolving injections for the following reasons.

In HIFU, there are 4 cartridges to choose from, providing more control over the treatment than fat-dissolving injections. The HIFU practitioner will select 2 of the 4 cartridges to target different skin layers for specific client concerns. During each treatment, 2 passes are made over the skin, each using a different cartridge. For example, the first pass uses a 4.5mm cartridge around the jowls to break down excess fat before a second pass with a 3mm cartridge targets collagen & elastin to tighten the skin. Each cartridge has its own benefit, which is explained below.

The Benefits of Each of the 4 HIFU Cartridges

In Fiji, we have 4 HIFU (13mm, 4.5mm, 3mm & 1.5mm) cartridges to choose from, depending on the area we are treating. Here are the depths and advantages each cartridge provides

13mm Cartridge – For Targeting Deep Stubborn Fat on the Body

The 13mm HIFU cartridge is one of the deepest penetrating cartridges used in HIFU treatments. It is only used on the body, not for facial rejuvenation. Here are 3 benefits the 13mm HIFU cartridge provides:

• Body Contouring: It is primarily used for fat reduction and body contouring. The depth allows the ultrasound energy to target and break down stubborn fat cells in specific areas.

• Targeting Larger, Deeper Fat Deposits: The 13mm cartridge is suitable for areas with larger fat deposits, such as the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.

• Skin Tightening: While its primary focus is fat reduction, it can also contribute to a degree of skin tightening in the treated areas.

 4.5mm Cartridge – For Targeting Fat Under the Chin & Jawline

The 4.5mm HIFU cartridge is specifically designed for reaching the deeper layers of the skin and the Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS) layer. Here are 5 benefits the 4.5mm HIFU cartridge provides:

• SMAS Layer Targeting: The SMAS layer is the area often addressed in facelift surgeries. The 4.5mm cartridge targets this layer, providing a significant lifting and tightening effect.

• Non-Surgical Facelift: By targeting the SMAS layer, the 4.5mm HIFU cartridge is effective for a non-invasive facelift, offering an alternative to traditional surgical facelifts. HIFU is also an excellent option for preventing and slowing down the ageing process.

• Improving Skin Elasticity and Firmness: Deep penetration helps stimulate collagen production at a deeper level, enhancing skin elasticity and firmness.

• Contouring and Lifting: It is particularly beneficial for lifting and contouring the lower face and neck areas, where sagging skin can be more pronounced.

• Reducing Deep Wrinkles: The depth of penetration makes it suitable for addressing deeper wrinkles and more pronounced signs of ageing.

3mm Cartridge – For Targeting the Lower Dermis

The 3mm HIFU cartridge is designed to target deeper layers of the skin, typically for facial rejuvenation and tightening. Here are 6 benefits the 3mm HIFU cartridge provides:

• Deeper Skin Penetration: Unlike the 1.5mm cartridge, the 3mm cartridge penetrates deeper into the dermal layer of the skin.

• Collagen Production: This depth is effective for stimulating collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity and firmness. 

• Reducing Wrinkles and Sagging: It is particularly effective for addressing moderate signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and mild sagging, by tightening the skin.

• Facial Contouring: The 3mm depth is used for contouring and lifting, especially around the lower face and neck areas 

• Non-Surgical Facelift: It’s often part of a non-surgical facelift regimen, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods.

1.5mm Cartridge – For Targeting the Superficial Dermis

This specific cartridge targets superficial layers of the skin. Here are 3 benefits the 1.5mm HIFU cartridge provides:

• Facial Rejuvenation: It’s commonly used for facial treatments that focus on the uppermost layers of the skin. This can help reduce fine lines, open pores, improve skin texture, and provide a mild lifting effect.

• Targeting Sensitive Areas: The 1.5mm depth is ideal for treating sensitive areas, such as the eyes and forehead, where the skin is thinner and requires a more delicate approach.

• Stimulating Collagen Production: Delivering ultrasound energy to the skin’s superficial layer stimulates collagen production, leading to tighter, more youthful-looking skin.

Pain Free

Traditional HIFU is known to be painful; however, Fiji Skin Clinic invested in the latest technology, which is now pain-free because it targets specific layers, such as fat or collagen. This also means that there is no downtime, and treatments can easily be carried out during your lunch hour.

Many clients prefer HIFU over having fat dissolving injections, especially if they are not a fan of needles or have a low pain threshold. After fat dissolves, swelling may also occur, which can be uncomfortable. After fat dissolving, you may not always be able to return to work immediately or reapply makeup as you can after HIFU.

HIFU Summary

1. Non-Invasive: HIFU is a non-invasive treatment, meaning it does not require incisions or injections.
2. Safety: Generally considered safe with fewer risks of complications compared to invasive procedures.
3. Recovery Time: Little to no downtime is required. Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately.
4. Number of Sessions: May require multiple sessions for optimal results.
5. Versatility: It can be used for both fat reduction and skin tightening, offering a dual benefit.
6. Pain and Discomfort: Usually, there is minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
7. Results develop over time as the body naturally processes and removes the targeted fat cells and stimulates the production of more collagen to tighten skin.

Fat-Dissolving Injection Summary  (e.g. Kybella, Lipolysis, Lemon Bottle, Aqualyx)

1. Minimally Invasive: Involves several injections with a substance like deoxycholic acid that dissolves fat.
2. Targeted Treatment: Can be very effective for small, localised areas, such as under the chin.
3. Recovery Time: Minimal to moderate downtime. Swelling and bruising are common after treatment.
4. Number of Sessions: May require multiple sessions for optimal results.
5. Pain and Discomfort: Can be more intense during and after the procedure than with HIFU.
6. Results develop over time as the body naturally processes and removes the targeted fat cells.

Both treatments can be used on the face and body, and they are suitable for all skin tones.

The ultimate benefit of HIFU over lemon-bottle/fat-dissolving injections is that HIFU not only breaks down unwanted fat but also tightens the skin simultaneously. The biggest concern with any fat loss is the risk of loose, crepey skin. Loose skin can cause as much dissatisfaction as the unwanted fat.

Book your initial skin consultation here to discuss your concerns and have your skin scanned using our state-of-the-art Skin imaging device.