Do you have this problem: you’re not overweight, but you just can’t get rid of that double chin; from the side, your jawline seems to merge with your neck; when taking photos, you instinctively tilt your head down and tuck your chin because a “no-neck” look makes your face appear wider. Double chin has complex causes – beyond general obesity, genetics, ageing, skin laxity, and a recessed jawbone can all contribute to submental fat accumulation. Dieting won’t reduce it, and exercise can’t reach it – this stubborn layer of fat frustrates many people. Bellacholine, developed by South Korea’s LG Chem, is a prescription solution specifically designed for this “hard-to-reach” fat. Its core ingredient, deoxycholic acid, precisely destroys fat cell membranes, leading to permanent fat reduction. What exactly is Bellacholine? Can a single session dissolve a double chin? Will it cause skin laxity? Are there side effects? This article will comprehensively walk you through the principles, suitable candidates, treatment options and prices, procedure experience, duration of results, and potential risks – giving you all the key information in one place so you can make a rational choice.
The core ingredient of Bellacholine is deoxycholic acid (DCA) – a naturally occurring secondary bile acid in the human body that plays an important role in the emulsification, digestion, and absorption of fats. When Bellacholine is precisely injected into the submental fat layer, deoxycholic acid selectively destroys the cell membranes of fat cells. This destruction is irreversible – once the fat cells are ruptured, the triglycerides inside are released and gradually cleared and metabolised by the body’s immune system. At the same time, Bellacholine also promotes collagen synthesis, helping to maintain and improve skin elasticity in the treated area and, to some extent, preventing skin laxity that may occur after fat dissolution.
Bellacholine was independently developed and manufactured by South Korea’s LG Chem. In January 2024, it received approval from the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) as a prescription drug for improving moderate to severe submental fat in adults. It is in the same product class as the FDA‑approved Kybella, both using deoxycholic acid as their core ingredient. LG Chem’s differentiated manufacturing process reduces the likelihood of precipitate formation and uses a pH level similar to that of the human body, aiming to reduce post‑procedure pain.
Bellacholine is primarily indicated for submental fat accumulation (double chin), and is particularly suitable for the following groups:
However, not everyone is suitable for Bellacholine. Conditions that are absolute contraindications or require careful evaluation include: pregnancy and breastfeeding; active infection or inflammation at the injection site; allergy to deoxycholic acid or any ingredient in the formulation; severe coagulation disorders; severe liver disease or autoimmune diseases. Bellacholine is a prescription drug in South Korea and must be administered by a qualified doctor at a licensed medical institution.
Bellacholine in Korea is primarily priced by injection dose (cc per vial). Each vial is typically 2ml. Based on the thickness and area of the double chin, the doctor will recommend different volumes:
| Option | Best for | Features | Reference price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellacholine 1 vial (2cc) | Mild double chin, first‑time experience | Precise local improvement, suitable for mild fat accumulation | ~220,000 – 250,000 |
| Bellacholine 2 vials (4cc) | Moderate double chin, seeking more noticeable results | Wider coverage, more significant effects | ~350,000 – 400,000 |
| Bellacholine 3‑session course (6cc) | Moderate‑severe double chin, seeking long‑lasting results | Complete course, optimal results | ~650,000 |
Note: Prices above are reference ranges for the Korean market. Actual pricing varies by clinic, doctor qualification, and promotions – taxes are separate – please refer to your in‑person consultation.
Your choice should be made after discussing the severity of your double chin, fat thickness, and budget with a qualified doctor. For first‑timers, 1 vial (2cc) is a more conservative entry option.
Pre‑procedure preparation: On your first visit, the doctor conducts a detailed consultation, assessing your submental fat thickness, skin elasticity, and overall facial contour. The doctor will mark the injection points, typically using a grid pattern to ensure even distribution. The face is thoroughly cleansed, and some clinics apply a topical anaesthetic cream for about 20‑30 minutes to enhance comfort.
During the procedure: The doctor uses an ultra‑fine needle to precisely inject Bellacholine into the submental fat layer. You may feel mild stinging and burning sensations during the injection, but most people tolerate it well. The treatment takes about 10‑20 minutes.
Immediately after: Significant swelling, redness, and mild pain will appear after treatment. Swelling typically peaks at 24‑72 hours after the procedure. Bellacholine is a minimally invasive treatment – you can return to daily activities on the same day.
Bellacholine results are progressive, completely different from the “immediate effect” of fillers:
Weeks 1‑2 (acute reaction phase) – Swelling and inflammation are noticeable; the contents released from ruptured fat cells have not yet been fully metabolised, and the swelling may make it look “even more swollen than before.” This is normal – don’t worry.
Month 1 (initial effect phase) – Swelling has largely subsided, and the destroyed fat cells are gradually being cleared by the body. Clinical data shows that 68.2% of subjects in the deoxycholic acid group showed at least a one‑grade improvement in submental fat at 3 months post‑treatment. The jawline begins to look defined, and the double chin is noticeably reduced.
Months 3‑6 (stabilised effect phase) – Fat metabolism is largely complete, and the results are at their best. The fat‑reducing effect of Bellacholine is semi‑permanent or permanent – destroyed fat cells do not regenerate. Clinical literature confirms that submental fat reduction effects are sustained for up to 1 year. As long as there is no significant weight gain after treatment, the results can be maintained long‑term.
Q: Is Bellacholine painful?
A: You may feel mild stinging and burning during the injection. LG Chem developed the product with a pH level similar to the human body to reduce post‑procedure pain. Most people tolerate it easily, usually without additional pain relief.
Q: Are there side effects or long‑term risks?
A: Bellacholine is relatively safe when administered properly, but side effects do exist. Common short‑term reactions includesignificant swelling, pain, burning sensation, and localised bruising– these typically resolve within days to 2 weeks. It’s important to note that due to the fat‑cell‑destroying effect of deoxycholic acid, swelling may persist forover a week.Temporary numbnessin the treated area may occur for 3‑4 days post‑treatment. Rare but noteworthy risks include:skin hardening, tissue necrosis, smile asymmetry, infection, and others. Choosing a reputable clinic and an experienced doctor significantly reduces these risks.
Q: Will Bellacholine cause skin laxity or sagging?
A: Bellacholine promotescollagen synthesiswhile dissolving fat, helping to maintain and improve skin elasticity. However, after fat dissolution, the skin may lose some support. If your skin elasticity is poor, your doctor may recommend combining it with lifting treatments such as Thermage or Ultherapy for comprehensive management.
Q: How many sessions of Bellacholine are needed?
A: The results depend on the injection dose and fat thickness. It is generally recommended to have1 session every 4 weeks, with a total of2‑3 sessionsto achieve ideal results. The exact number of sessions will be determined by the doctor based on individual fat volume and treatment response.
Q: How much does Bellacholine cost in Korea?
A: In Korea, Bellacholine 1 vial (2cc) costs approximately220,000‑250,000 KRW; 2 vials (4cc) costs approximately350,000‑400,000 KRW; a 3‑session course costs approximately650,000 KRW. Actual pricing varies by clinic, doctor qualification, and promotions – please refer to your in‑person consultation.
Key note: Bellacholine is not a “one‑injection face‑slimming” magic trick – it is a scientific process that destroys fat cells and allows the body to naturally metabolise them. The results are progressive, and you need to be patient through the swelling phase. It is also not a “weight‑loss injection” – it is a precise treatment for localised stubborn fat (such as submental fat).
Regarding safety: Bellacholine is a prescription drug approved by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). However, this does not mean “zero risk.” Injectable deoxycholic acid is a prescription medication and must be administered by a qualified doctor at a licensed medical institution. Before treatment, you must fully disclose your health status to the doctor, including any allergies, liver disease, coagulation abnormalities, etc.
Post‑care essentials: For 3‑7 days after treatment, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, saunas/steam rooms, and hot baths; for 3‑4 days, avoid strenuous exercise; do not vigorously massage or press on the treated area; drink plenty of water during the swelling phase to help accelerate fat metabolism.
To maximise results, be sure to: choose a licensed dermatology or aesthetic clinic – confirm the use of genuine Bellacholine products; have a thorough pre‑procedure consultation – let a qualified doctor assess your fat thickness and skin condition to determine the appropriate dosage and course; prepare yourself mentally – there will be significant swelling post‑treatment (usually lasting 1‑2 weeks) – this is a normal part of the fat‑destruction and clearance process, not a sign that something went wrong; be realistic about results – Bellacholine can significantly improve your double chin and jawline, but results vary by individual, and completing the full course is necessary to achieve ideal results.
Medical disclaimer:
This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Bellacholine is a prescription drug in South Korea. Aesthetic procedures involve individual variations – results and risks differ from person to person. Prices, treatment options, and other information mentioned are for reference only – please refer to actual consultations for current details.
All medical procedures carry potential risks (including but not limited to swelling, pain, bruising, hardening, infection, unsatisfactory results, etc.). Before making any decision, please consult a qualified medical professional in person, who can assess your suitability based on your health status, constitution, and needs. The author and publisher assume no legal liability for any decisions made based on this content.
If you experience any discomfort or have concerns, please seek prompt advice from a licensed physician.