Aqualyx®
Aqualyx®
How it works
Aqualyx, also known as intralipotherapy, is a non-surgical medical treatment that consists of injecting an aqueous solution, based on acid/sodium deoxycholate, directly into subcutaneous adipose tissue. This solution destroys the membrane of fat cells (adipocytes), liquefying them, after which they are eliminated naturally by the body’s lymphatic system.
Aqualyx is not a substitute for liposuction when large volumes of fat need to be removed; in those situations, surgery or liposuction will be more appropriate. It is intended to treat small to moderate localized and resistant fat deposits for body and facial contouring, rather than as a method of weight loss. The patient should ideally have a balanced weight and realistic expectations regarding the result.
Adequate hydration before and after treatment is important, as water facilitates the elimination of destroyed fat cells and contributes to the effectiveness of the procedure.
The most common treatment areas are the jowls and chin, the abdomen and flanks, the inner thighs and knees, the back, and the upper arms.
Unlike fat aspirated during liposuction, fat destroyed by Aqualyx cannot be reused or reintroduced into other areas of the body, as it is eliminated by the body itself.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about Aqualyx treatment.
What is Aqualyx?
Aqualyx, also known as intralipotherapy, is a non-surgical medical treatment that uses an aqueous solution injected directly into subcutaneous adipose tissue.
What is Aqualyx used for?
It is used to reduce small to moderate localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise, without the need for surgery.
How does Aqualyx work?
The solution destroys the membrane of fat cells, liquefying them. These cells are then eliminated naturally by the body’s lymphatic system.
Does Aqualyx replace liposuction?
Not when large volumes of fat need to be removed. In those situations, surgery or liposuction will be more appropriate.
Is Aqualyx a weight-loss treatment?
No. It is intended for body and facial contouring of localized and resistant fat deposits, rather than for weight loss.
What characteristics are desirable before treatment?
The patient should ideally have a balanced weight and realistic expectations regarding the result.
Which areas can be treated?
The most common areas are the jowls and chin, the abdomen and flanks, the inner thighs and knees, the back, and the upper arms.
Is hydration important before and after treatment?
Yes. Adequate hydration before and after treatment facilitates the elimination of destroyed fat cells and contributes to the effectiveness of the procedure.
How long does the treatment take?
The stated treatment duration is approximately 30 minutes.
Is anaesthesia required?
The injected solution itself already includes anaesthetic.
Does Aqualyx leave scars?
No. The treatment does not leave scars.
Where is the procedure performed and what is recovery like?
The procedure is performed in the office, and daily activities can be resumed practically immediately.
What should be avoided during the first 48 hours?
Intense physical exercise, heat, including saunas and hot baths, and direct sun exposure should be avoided.
What effects and risks are described?
Swelling, redness, tenderness and bruising may occur during the first few days. Temporary hardening and numbness may occur and usually resolve within 6 to 8 weeks. Rarely, skin necrosis may occur.
How many sessions are required and are the results long-lasting?
Usually 2 to 5 sessions are required, spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. Results tend to be long-lasting when the patient maintains a stable weight because the destroyed fat cells do not regenerate.
This information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
