Deoxycholic Acid

Summary Content

Deoxycholic Acid (DCA) injections provide a non-surgical way to target and reduce stubborn fat deposits—most commonly under the chin—offering an effective alternative to Belkyra®. This injectable treatment uses deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring compound in the body that helps break down dietary fat. When injected into specific areas, DCA permanently destroys fat cells, which are then processed and eliminated by the body over time.

At Rejuvenation Dermatology, our expert team administers DCA injections to sculpt and refine the submental area (double chin), delivering a more contoured jawline without the need for surgery. Each treatment session is quick, typically 15–30 minutes, and performed in a comfortable, clinical environment.

For best results, a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart may be recommended. Some temporary swelling, tenderness, or bruising is common following the procedure.

DCA is ideal for patients seeking a safe, non-invasive option to reduce localized fat and improve facial definition. Every treatment plan is customized to your facial structure and goals, helping you achieve a natural-looking, sculpted appearance with long-lasting results.

What is Deoxycholic Acid?

Deoxycholic Acid (DCA) is a naturally occurring compound in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. In cosmetic treatments, a synthetic version of DCA is injected to target areas and permanently destroy fat cells —most commonly under the chin—to reduce the appearance of submental fullness, or a double chin.

When administered into the fatty layer beneath the skin, DCA works by disrupting the fat cell membrane, allowing the body to naturally metabolize and eliminate the damaged cells. This results in gradual fat reduction and improved contour in the treated area.

DCA injections provide a minimally invasive alternative to surgical options like liposuction, with little to no downtime. Most patients benefit from a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart to achieve the most noticeable and refined results.

At Rejuvenation Dermatology Edmonton South, we offer DCA as a safe and effective alternative to Belkyra®, especially for those seeking a cost-conscious, clinically supported solution for facial sculpting. Treatments are tailored to your anatomy and goals, delivering natural, lasting results through expert, customized care.

Benefits of Deoxycholic Acid Injections

DCA injections offer an effective, non-surgical approach to reducing localized fat. Here are the main benefits:

Non-Invasive Fat Reduction
DCA provides a minimally invasive alternative to procedures like liposuction—no incisions, anesthesia, or extended recovery required.

Permanent Results
Once treated, fat cells are permanently destroyed and naturally eliminated by the body. With a full treatment series, results are long-lasting and typically maintenance-free.

Enhanced Facial Contour
DCA is particularly effective at reducing double chin fat, refining the jawline and chin for a more defined, youthful appearance.

Quick Appointments
Each session takes just 15 to 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into your schedule without disrupting your day.

Minimal Downtime
Most patients experience mild swelling or tenderness that may last for a couple of weeks, allowing a fast return to daily activities.

Personalized Treatment Plans
Treatments are customized to your unique goals and facial structure to ensure natural-looking, precise results.

What Conditions Can Deoxycholic Acid Address?

Deoxycholic Acid (DCA) injections are designed to target small, localized fat deposits that don’t respond to traditional weight loss methods. This injectable treatment offers a non-surgical approach to body and facial contouring, with key applications including:

Submental Fullness (Double Chin)
DCA is most commonly used to reduce fat under the chin, improving jawline definition and eliminating the appearance of a double chin.

Stubborn Fat Deposits in Small Areas
Off-label, DCA may be used to treat small pockets of fat in areas such as the jowls, bra bulge, or lower abdomen—under the care of an experienced provider.

Mild Facial Asymmetry from Uneven Fat Distribution
For individuals with fat-related imbalance in the lower face, DCA can help sculpt a more symmetrical, contoured appearance.

DCA is best suited for those close to their ideal weight who want to fine-tune their shape—not as a substitute for weight loss. At Rejuvenation Dermatology, each treatment is tailored to ensure safe, effective fat reduction with natural, lasting results.

Conditions

What To Expect During a Deoxycholic Acid Treatment

When you proceed with a DCA treatment at Rejuvenation Dermatology, you're selecting a professional, non-surgical approach to reducing stubborn fat. Here’s what to expect from start to finish:

  • Consultation and Personalized Plan
    Your treatment begins with a one-on-one consultation. A dermatology expert will assess your facial structure, review your aesthetic goals, and determine if DCA is the right fit. From there, a tailored treatment plan is created to meet your needs.
  • Preparation Before Treatment
    On the day of your session, the area to be treated is thoroughly cleansed. Ice may be applied to ensure a comfortable experience.
  • Targeted Injections
    Using a fine needle and a precise treatment grid, your provider will carefully inject DCA into the submental fat. The procedure typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
  • What to Expect After Treatment
    You may notice some swelling, tenderness/numbness, or mild bruising at the injection site. These are normal, temporary effects that usually subside within a few days. Swelling may persist for a couple of weeks. Numbness resolves within 6 weeks.
  • Visible, Lasting Results Over Time
    As the treated fat cells are gradually broken down and flushed out by the body, you’ll begin to see a more defined profile. Most patients need 2–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for the best results.

At Rejuvenation Dermatology, your comfort, safety, and results are our top priority—we’re here to guide you every step of the way with expert care and precision.

Deoxycholic Acid FAQ:

DCA (Deoxycholic Acid) is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring molecule in the body that breaks down dietary fat. When injected into targeted areas, it destroys fat cells by breaking down their membranes. The body then naturally eliminates these cells, resulting in a more contoured and sculpted appearance.

The number of treatments varies depending on the amount of fat and your desired results. Most patients require 2 to 6 sessions, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart. Your dermatologist at Rejuvenation Dermatology will assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan for optimal results.

DCA treatments involve minimal downtime. You may experience mild swelling, numbness, tenderness, or bruising at the injection site. Swelling may persist for a couple of weeks and numbness resolves within 6 weeks. Most patients are able to return to normal activities shortly after the procedure.

Deoxycholic Acid (DCA) | Injectables | Edmonton

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