DCA (Deoxycholic Acid)

Summary Content

DCA (Deoxycholic Acid) injections offer a non-surgical solution for reducing localized fat deposits, particularly under the chin, making it a strong alternative to Belkyra®. Like Belkyra®, DCA injections use a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid—a naturally occurring molecule in the body that breaks down and absorbs dietary fat. When injected into targeted areas, DCA works to permanently destroy fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated through the body’s metabolic processes.

At Rejuvenation Dermatology, our experienced team uses DCA to contour and define areas such as the submental region (double chin), providing a slimmer, more sculpted appearance without the need for invasive surgery. The treatment is quick, typically lasting 15–30 minutes, and is performed in a comfortable, clinical setting.

Most patients require a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart for optimal results. Mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising may occur temporarily after each session.

DCA is ideal for those looking to reduce stubborn fat in small areas without downtime or surgical intervention. At Rejuvenation Dermatology, we tailor each DCA treatment plan to your unique facial structure and aesthetic goals, helping you achieve a refined profile with natural, lasting results.

What is DCA (Deoxycholic Acid)?

Deoxycholic Acid (DCA) is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. In aesthetic medicine, a synthetic form of DCA is used in injectable treatments to target and permanently destroy fat cells in specific areas—most commonly under the chin, to reduce the appearance of a double chin.

When injected into the subcutaneous fat, DCA disrupts the fat cell membrane, causing the cells to break down. The destroyed fat cells are then gradually metabolized and eliminated by the body, resulting in a more contoured and defined appearance.

DCA injections are a non-surgical alternative to procedures like liposuction, offering patients a minimally invasive option for targeted fat reduction with little to no downtime. Most patients require multiple sessions, spaced a few weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.

At Rejuvenation Dermatology, we use DCA as an effective alternative to Belkyra®, particularly for patients seeking a cost-effective, safe, and clinically proven method to refine facial contours and enhance their profile. Each treatment is customized to your needs and performed with precision to ensure natural-looking, long-lasting outcomes.

Benefits of DCA (Deoxycholic Acid) Injections

DCA injections offer a highly effective, non-surgical solution for targeted fat reduction. Here are the key benefits:

  • Non-Surgical Fat Reduction
    DCA provides a minimally invasive alternative to liposuction, allowing patients to reduce stubborn fat without incisions, anesthesia, or extended recovery time.
  • Permanent Results
    Once fat cells are destroyed and eliminated by the body, they do not return. With a complete treatment plan, results are long-lasting and typically do not require maintenance.
  • Improved Contouring
    DCA is ideal for enhancing the definition of the jawline and chin by reducing submental fullness (double chin), creating a more sculpted and youthful appearance.
  • Quick, In-Clinic Procedure
    Treatment sessions are typically short—about 15 to 30 minutes—and can easily fit into a busy schedule.
  • Minimal Downtime
    Most patients experience only mild swelling or tenderness, allowing them to return to normal activities soon after treatment.
  • Customizable Treatment Plans
    DCA treatments are tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals, ensuring safe, precise, and natural-looking outcomes.

What Conditions Can DCA (Deoxycholic Acid) Address?

DCA (Deoxycholic Acid) injections are primarily used to treat localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. It offers a non-surgical solution for contouring and reshaping specific areas of the body, with the following key applications:

  • Submental Fullness (Double Chin)
    DCA is most commonly used to target and reduce fat beneath the chin, helping to eliminate the appearance of a double chin and create a more defined jawline.
  • Small Pockets of Stubborn Fat
    In some cases, DCA may be used off-label to treat other small, well-defined areas of stubborn fat such as the jowls, bra bulge, or lower abdomen, under expert guidance.
  • Mild Facial Asymmetry Due to Fat Distribution
    DCA can help improve facial harmony by reducing localized fat that contributes to asymmetry, especially along the lower face and jawline.

DCA is not a weight-loss solution but is ideal for individuals near their ideal weight who want to refine and sculpt specific areas. At Rejuvenation Dermatology, we provide customized DCA treatments to safely and effectively address these concerns with natural-looking, lasting results.

Conditions

What To Expect During a DCA (Deoxycholic Acid) Treatment

When you choose DCA treatment at Rejuvenation Dermatology, you’re opting for a professional, non-surgical solution to reduce unwanted fat in areas like under the chin. Here's what you can expect throughout the process:

  1. Consultation and Assessment
    Your journey begins with a personalized consultation where our dermatology expert evaluates your facial profile, discusses your goals, and confirms if DCA is the right treatment for you. A customized treatment plan is then created.
  2. Treatment Preparation
    On the day of your session, the targeted area is cleansed, and a topical numbing agent or local anesthetic may be applied to enhance comfort during the procedure.
  3. Precise Injections
    DCA is injected into the submental fat using a fine needle, guided by a carefully marked treatment grid. The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes.
  4. Post-Treatment Sensations
    You may experience temporary swelling, tenderness, or mild bruising at the injection site. These effects are normal and usually resolve within a few days.
  5. Gradual, Lasting Results
    Fat cells are naturally broken down and eliminated over several weeks. Most patients require 2–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for optimal contouring results.

Our team at Rejuvenation Dermatology ensures every DCA treatment is performed with precision, care, and your comfort in mind.

DCA (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 4 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, tenderness, or bruising at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few days. Most patients are able to return to normal activities shortly after the procedure.

DCA (Deoxycholic Acid) | Injectables | Calgary

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