Aqualyx Indications and Uses – What Is It Used For?

Last Updated On: May 7, 2025

Injectable deoxycholic acid has become an increasingly used treatment for localized adiposity, particularly in submental fullness and small fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise. These minimally invasive procedures offer a non-surgical alternative to liposuction for carefully selected patients.

One such injectable is Aqualyx, a deoxycholic acid-based solution developed specifically for aesthetic medicine. Designed to target localized fat deposits, Aqualyx helps contour areas such as the chin, abdomen, and thighs without the need for surgery. Its popularity has expanded globally, particularly in clinics specializing in non-surgical body contouring.

This article will explore Aqualyx’s approved indications, off-label uses, and key insights into its mechanism and clinical applications.

Key Takeaways

• Aqualyx targets localized fat pockets in areas like the chin, abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, back, and knees.
• It disrupts fat cell membranes, allowing the body to metabolize and naturally eliminate the released fat.
  Off-label uses, such as treating gynecomastia or lipomas, exist but require careful patient selection and thorough informed consent.
• Ideal candidates are those close to their target weight, with good skin elasticity and realistic expectations about gradual fat reduction.
• Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from autoimmune disorders, liver disease, or skin infections cannot receive Aqualyx treatments.
• Proper practitioner expertise, patient counseling, and adherence to treatment protocols are crucial for maximizing results and minimizing risks.

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Approved Indications and Treatment Areas

Aqualyx is primarily used to treat localized fat deposits that are unresponsive to conventional weight loss methods like diet and exercise. The most common treatment areas include:

• Chin and jawline
• Abdomen
• Thighs
• Hips
• Upper arms
• Back
• Knees

These areas are carefully selected based on the presence of small, well-defined fat pockets where surgical intervention is unnecessary. Treatment involves injecting the Aqualyx solution directly into the subcutaneous fat, where it disrupts fat cell membranes, enabling the body to eliminate the released fat naturally over time. Results typically appear gradually, supporting a subtle and natural-looking improvement.​

Off-Label Uses and Considerations

While Aqualyx is officially approved for specific body zones, many practitioners have expanded its use to off-label applications. These can include:

• Gynecomastia (male breast tissue reduction)
• Buffalo hump (fat accumulation on the upper back)
• Lipomas (benign fatty tumors)

Off-label applications require exceptional clinical judgment, advanced technique, and a detailed risk-benefit discussion with patients. Since off-label areas lack large-scale clinical validation, informed consent is crucial. 

For patients comparing treatments, understanding whether Aqualyx or Lemon Bottle better aligns with their body goals can also help guide an informed choice between the two options.

Patient Selection Criteria

Ideal candidates for Aqualyx are individuals who are close to their target body weight but have stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to exercise or diet. Suitable patients usually:

• Have a BMI under 25
• Possess good skin elasticity
• Are non-smokers
• Maintain a stable, healthy weight

It’s essential that patients have realistic expectations—Aqualyx is not a substitute for weight loss but a tool for refining body contours. A detailed medical history, a comprehensive aesthetic evaluation, and open discussion about achievable outcomes should precede any treatment plan.

Contraindications and Precautions

Certain populations should not undergo Aqualyx treatments. Contraindications include individuals who:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have autoimmune disorders
• Suffer from severe liver or kidney disease
• Have active skin infections at the treatment site
• Are allergic to any ingredients in the Aqualyx formulation

Precautions should also include pausing anticoagulant medications before treatment to minimize bleeding risks. Importantly, only qualified healthcare professionals familiar with anatomical structures and proper dilution protocols may administer Aqualyx injections.

Conclusion

Aqualyx provides a targeted, minimally invasive method for reducing localized fat deposits, giving patients a non-surgical alternative to traditional body contouring procedures. Success hinges on accurate patient selection, following approved treatment indications, and careful professional technique. 

While off-label applications have expanded its versatility, they must be approached cautiously. 

FAQs

1. How many Aqualyx sessions are needed?

Most patients require 2 to 4 sessions spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart, depending on the treatment area and individual response.​

2. Is Aqualyx a weight-loss treatment?

No, Aqualyx is designed for body contouring by targeting specific fat pockets, not for overall weight loss.​

3. Are the results of Aqualyx permanent?

Yes, the destroyed fat cells are permanently eliminated; however, maintaining a stable weight is essential to prevent new fat accumulation.​

4. What are the common side effects of Aqualyx?

Common side effects include swelling, redness, and tenderness at the injection site, which typically resolve within a few days.

5. Who is a good candidate for Aqualyx?

Aqualyx is best for individuals close to their ideal weight with localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. It is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with liver/kidney disease, or certain medical conditions.

6. How soon will I see results?

Results typically begin to appear within 4–6 weeks after treatment, with continued improvement as the body eliminates fat cells.

7. Is the procedure painful?

Some discomfort or stinging may occur during injections, but local anesthesia or numbing cream is often used to minimize pain.

References

Jones DH, Griffin RW, Lai V. Non-submental applications of injectable deoxycholic acid: a systematic review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(7):675-681. doi:10.36849/JDD.2019.675X.

Devies K. Aqualyx Fat Dissolving Injections: Key Insights & Benefits. New York Liposuction Center. Published July 28, 2024. https://www.newyorkliposuction.com/blog/aqualyx-fat-dissolving-injections/

AQUALYX Fat Dissolving Injections Information. https://www.consultingroom.com/treatment/aqualyx-fat-dissolving-injections