Menopause Fat-Dissolving Injection for Double Chins and Jowls (Belkyra)

Dr. Kate Healy, MD BCh BAO, MICGP, CFPC
Medical Director & Co-Founder, Merrion Medical Aesthetics (Oakville). Family Physician with a special interest in Dermatology and women’s health.

AI Summary

• During menopause, hormonal shifts and natural aging can change where fat sits—some women notice more fullness under the chin (“submental fat” or a double chin).
• Fat dissolving injections such as Belkyra are designed to target fat under the chin (submental fat) and can help refine the jawline without surgery.
• Treatment is typically a series of sessions; results develop gradually over weeks as the body clears treated fat cells.
• Swelling is expected after treatment and is part of the process; most side effects are temporary, but choosing a qualified injector is essential.
• Belkyra is not a “weight loss injection” or “hormonal weight loss” treatment—it's a localized contouring option for under-chin fat.

Menopause is a transformative phase in a woman’s life. It brings changes physically and emotionally, and it can also change how and where your body stores fat. One common concern I hear is new or increased fullness under the chin—sometimes alongside softening around the jawline.

Fat dissolving injections, such as Belkyra treatment, offer a non-surgical way to target submental fat (fat under the chin). If your goal is a more defined jawline and a reduction in the appearance of a double chin, this can be a helpful option for the right candidate.

Dr. Kate: “When we’re treating under-chin fullness in menopause, I always start with a careful assessment. My job is to confirm it’s truly submental fat, talk you through expected swelling and timelines, and make sure the plan fits your goals—because good results come from good planning.”

Understanding Menopause and Changes in Body Fat

Menopause can coincide with changes in body composition and fat distribution. In practice, I often see a combination of influences: hormonal shifts, changes in metabolism, sleep disruption, stress, and changes in activity levels. Even when you’re doing “all the right things,” certain areas can feel stubborn—especially under the chin.

Exercise and nutrition are still the foundation of healthy menopause weight loss, but localized areas don’t always respond evenly. That’s where a targeted treatment may be considered—provided it’s appropriate for your anatomy and overall health goals.

Concern	What it usually responds to	What may need a targeted option
Overall weight changes in menopause	Nutrition, strength training, sleep, stress support	Sometimes medical support is appropriate (discussed individually)
Under-chin fullness (submental fat)	Weight management may help, but not always fully	Fat dissolving injections (e.g., Belkyra), or other contouring options
Jawline softening / “jowls” appearance	Skin quality, collagen support, facial balancing	May require a combination approach (not always a fat issue)

What Is Submental Fat and Why Does It Accumulate During Menopause?

Submental fat is the fat that sits under the chin—commonly called a “double chin.” It can be related to genetics, weight changes, and age-related shifts in facial structure and skin support.

During menopause, some women notice that fat distribution changes, and the neck/chin area can feel less “sharp” than it used to. It’s also important to remember that not all fullness under the chin is purely fat—sometimes it’s skin laxity or anatomy. That’s why a proper assessment matters before choosing any injection-based treatment.

• Hormonal shifts and aging can change fat distribution
• Genetics can strongly influence under-chin fullness
• Metabolism may slow, and weight changes can make submental fat more noticeable

Fat Dissolving Injections: An Overview

Fat dissolving injections are designed to target and break down fat cells in a localized area. The solution is injected into a defined treatment zone, and the body gradually clears the disrupted fat cells over time. This is best thought of as contouring, not general weight loss.

Key benefits many patients value include:

• Minimally invasive (no surgery)
• Targeted fat reduction for a specific area
• Gradual change that can look natural

Just to be very clear: Belkyra is not a “weight loss injection,” and it’s not a “hormonal weight loss” treatment. If your goal is broader menopause weight loss, we would discuss lifestyle and (when appropriate) medical options separately from under-chin contouring.

Introducing Belkyra: The Science Behind the Injection

Belkyra is an injectable treatment used to improve the appearance of submental fat (fat under the chin). It contains deoxycholic acid, a substance that helps break down fat. When carefully injected into the correct area, it disrupts fat cells so your body can gradually clear them.

Why many patients like the idea of Belkyra:

• Non-surgical option for double chin fat
• Treatments are relatively quick (often 15–20 minutes in-clinic)
• Results build gradually over time

Treatment Areas: Double Chin, Jowls, and Beyond

Belkyra is primarily used for the area under the chin (submental fat). If you’re concerned about “jowls,” we first clarify what you mean—sometimes it’s fat, sometimes it’s skin laxity, sometimes it’s facial structure and volume shift.

In my consultations, I’ll be specific about what Belkyra can address. For most patients, it’s best described as a treatment for double chin fat that may help the jawline appear more defined by reducing under-chin fullness. If you need support for lower-face laxity or broader jawline contouring, that may require a different or combined plan.

The Treatment Process: What to Expect Before, During, and After

The process starts with a consultation. I assess the area, confirm suitability, review your health history, and talk through realistic outcomes. I’ll also explain expected swelling and downtime considerations.

Before treatment

• Assessment of the under-chin area (amount of fat, skin quality, anatomy)
• Discussion of goals (“desired result” and how subtle or defined you want the change)
• Plan for session count and spacing

During treatment

The injections themselves are typically quick. You may feel a sting or pressure. Many clinics use measures to improve comfort (such as topical numbing and/or cold packs).

After treatment

Swelling is common and expected—often most noticeable in the first couple of days. Bruising, tenderness, numbness, or firmness can also occur temporarily. I advise planning around important events, because the swelling can be more significant than many people expect.

What you may notice	Why it happens	Typical approach
Swelling	Inflammatory response as the body processes treated fat cells	Cold packs, time, avoid heat/strenuous activity short-term
Bruising / tenderness	Needle entry and local tissue response	Gentle care, avoid blood-thinning supplements unless prescribed
Numbness / tingling	Temporary nerve irritation in the area	Usually settles gradually; monitor and follow guidance

How Many Sessions Will You Need? Factors That Influence Results

The number of sessions is individualized. Many patients need a series (often two to four sessions), though some may need more depending on the amount of fat and the “before” anatomy. Sessions are usually spaced several weeks apart to allow the area to settle and for the body to process the change.

Factors that influence session count include:

• Amount and distribution of submental fat
• Skin quality (how well the skin “redrapes” as volume reduces)
• Your desired result (subtle refinement vs. more defined contour)
• Your body’s response (how quickly swelling resolves and results develop)

Safety, Side Effects, and Recovery: What You Need to Know

Safety starts with appropriate patient selection and a qualified injector. Most side effects are temporary and expected (especially swelling). That said, any injectable treatment has risks, and you should be fully informed before proceeding.

Common temporary side effects can include:

• Swelling, bruising, redness
• Tenderness or firmness
• Numbness or tingling

In your consultation, I’ll review your medical history, examine the area, and explain what would be “normal” for you—so you know what to expect and when to contact the clinic.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Menopause Fat Dissolving Injections?

In general, a good candidate is someone who is bothered by fat under the chin that persists despite healthy habits, and who has realistic expectations about swelling, timelines, and gradual improvement.

Considerations I review include:

• Overall health and medical history
• Whether fullness is truly submental fat (vs. skin laxity or other causes)
• Skin quality and expected “tightening” response
• Whether your goal is localized contouring or broader menopause weight loss

Comparing Fat Dissolving Injections to Other Menopause Weight Loss Options

It helps to separate localized contouring from overall weight management. Belkyra targets a very specific area. If you’re researching weight loss injections or “hormonal weight loss,” those are different conversations entirely and should be approached medically and individually.

Option	Best for	Not ideal for
Lifestyle (nutrition + strength training)	Overall menopause weight loss and health	Spot-reducing under-chin fat predictably
Fat dissolving injections (Belkyra)	Targeted reduction of submental fat	General weight loss or “hormonal weight loss”
Other non-surgical contouring (varies)	Selected cases depending on anatomy	One-size-fits-all solutions

Realistic Expectations: Desired Results and Optimal Outcomes

Belkyra results are gradual. You may not see your final change after the first appointment, and swelling can temporarily make the area look fuller before it looks slimmer. I set expectations carefully so you’re not discouraged in the early phase.

Optimal outcomes typically come from:

• Clear goals set at consultation
• A personalized plan (sessions and spacing)
• Appropriate aftercare and timing around events

Frequently Asked Questions About Belkyra and Fat Dissolving Treatments

What is the active ingredient in Belkyra?

Belkyra contains deoxycholic acid, which helps break down fat cells when injected into the appropriate treatment area.

How many sessions are needed for visible results?

Most people need multiple sessions. The exact number depends on the amount of submental fat and your desired result.

Are there any side effects I should be aware of?

Swelling is common and expected. Bruising, tenderness, numbness, and firmness can also happen temporarily. Your injector should review risks and aftercare with you in detail.

Can fat return after treatment?

Treated fat cells are broken down, but overall weight changes can still affect the area. Maintaining healthy habits supports longer-term contour consistency.

Self-Care, Confidence, and Wellness During Menopause

Menopause can be a time of recalibration. I encourage patients to think about self-care as a complete picture: strength, sleep, nutrition, skin health, and mental wellbeing. If you choose an aesthetic treatment, it should support confidence—not create pressure.

• Nourishing meals that support energy and satiety
• Regular strength-based movement
• Stress support (even small, consistent practices)
• Skincare tailored to mature skin

Real Stories: Women’s Experiences with Menopause Fat Dissolving Injections

In my clinic, women often tell me the “win” isn’t just the profile change—it’s feeling like their face matches how they feel inside. Many appreciate that the change is gradual and that they can plan it around work, family, and social events. The key is aligning expectations with the real timeline and normal swelling pattern.

How to Choose a Qualified Provider for Injectable Treatments

Choosing the right provider matters. Look for medical qualifications, experience with submental fat treatment, and a clear consultation process. A good provider will assess you carefully, explain risks, and never rush you.

• Medical credentials and training
• Experience with Belkyra treatment planning
• Clear, patient-first communication
• Transparent aftercare and follow-up

Next Steps: Booking Your Consultation and Planning Your Journey

Your first step is a consultation. Bring your questions, tell me what you’re noticing, and we’ll map out whether a menopause fat dissolving injection approach makes sense for you. If it’s not the right fit, I’ll tell you—and we’ll discuss other options that better match your anatomy and goals.

• Write down your top concerns (double chin, jawline definition, swelling timeline)
• Plan around social/work events (swelling can be noticeable early on)
• Discuss your broader menopause weight loss goals separately if needed

Conclusion: Embracing Change and Prioritizing Your Wellness

Menopause marks a new chapter—one where self-care can be more intentional than ever. If under-chin fullness is affecting your confidence, fat dissolving injections like Belkyra may be a practical, non-surgical way to address double chin fat in the right candidate. Most importantly, your plan should be personal, realistic, and supportive of your overall wellness.