Steroid vs Non-Steroid Fat Dissolving Injections: What’s the Difference?

Understanding Fat Dissolving Injections

Fat dissolving injections are a non-surgical way to reduce stubborn fat in specific areas such as the chin, cheeks, jawline, arms, or thighs. These injections break down fat cells so that the body can naturally flush them out through metabolism.
In Korea, clinics offer two main types: steroid-based and non-steroid fat dissolving injections. Though both aim to slim and sculpt, the way they work—and how long results last—are quite different.

Steroid-Based Fat Dissolving Injections

Steroid-based formulas are often mixed by individual clinics, typically including ingredients like dexamethasone or other corticosteroids. These components help reduce inflammation and swelling while giving the treated area a temporarily slimmer look.

How They Work:

• Steroids shrink the fat cells and reduce local inflammation.
• The result is a quick visible slimming effect, but it’s largely temporary since the fat cells are not destroyed.
• Once the steroid effect wears off, the fat cells can gradually return to their normal size.

Pros:

• Fast results (often visible within a few days).
• Reduced swelling or puffiness post-injection.
• Affordable and common in many aesthetic clinics.

Cons:

• Results are temporary, typically lasting only a few weeks to months.
• Overuse can lead to side effects such as thinning skin, uneven texture, or tissue atrophy.
• Not ideal for patients seeking permanent fat reduction.

Best For:
Patients who want a quick facial slimming effect for an event or photoshoot and are okay with short-term improvement.

Non-Steroid Fat Dissolving Injections

Non-steroid formulas, on the other hand, use lipolytic agents—substances that break down fat cells. Popular ingredients include Deoxycholic Acid (DCA) or Phosphatidylcholine (PPC). These substances directly target and destroy fat cell membranes, allowing the body to permanently eliminate them through natural metabolism.

How They Work:

• The solution breaks down the fat cell wall (a process called adipocytolysis).
• The destroyed fat is metabolized and removed from the body over several weeks.
• This leads to a gradual and longer-lasting contouring effect.

Pros:

• Permanent fat reduction in treated areas (as long as weight is maintained).
• Suitable for both face and body areas.
• Produces more natural and consistent results over time.

Cons:

• Results take longer to appear (2–4 weeks).
• Mild swelling, redness, or tenderness may occur temporarily.
• Multiple sessions are usually needed for optimal contouring.

Best For:
Patients seeking long-lasting contour improvement and natural fat reduction without surgery.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Main Ingredient:
• Steroid: Corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory)
• Non-Steroid: Lipolytic agents (fat cell–destroying substances)
• Mechanism:
• Steroid: Shrinks fat cells temporarily
• Non-Steroid: Permanently destroys fat cells
• Longevity:
• Steroid: Short-term (weeks to months)
• Non-Steroid: Long-term (fat cells don’t return)
• Results Speed:
• Steroid: Fast but temporary
• Non-Steroid: Gradual but lasting
• Safety:
• Steroid: Higher risk with repeated use
• Non-Steroid: Safe when performed correctly by licensed practitioners

How to Choose the Right Type

Choosing between steroid and non-steroid injections depends on your goals:

• Choose steroid injections if you want quick, temporary slimming with minimal downtime.
• Choose non-steroid injections if you prefer a slower, more permanent fat reduction.
  Before treatment, it’s important to discuss your expectations, treatment area, and duration of results with your doctor.

Final Thoughts

Both steroid and non-steroid fat dissolving injections can enhance your facial or body contour—but their purpose differs.

• Steroid injections deliver a temporary cosmetic fix, ideal for short-term goals.
• Non-steroid injections offer a real, lasting solution by permanently removing fat cells.

For safe and effective results, make sure your treatment is performed by a qualified professional who uses properly formulated products.