Aqualyx Fat Dissolving Protocol

HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK

AQUALYX FAT DISSOLVING INJECTION PROTOCOL

 

DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION: 1ST APRIL 2025 

REVIEW DATE: 1ST APRIL 2026

VERSION NUMBER: 1.1

 

INTRODUCTION

  • This protocol ensures that Aqualyx injections for non-surgical fat reduction are administered safely, effectively, and in accordance with UK regulations, including MHRA, Save Face, JCCP, and HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK’s internal policies such as Medicines Management, Infection Control, Record Keeping, Consent, and Patient Safety Policies.

  • Only trained medical professionals (Doctors, Dentists, and Registered Nurses) with accredited fat-dissolving injection training may administer Aqualyx.

  • A face-to-face consultation is mandatory before treatment.

 

INDICATIONS FOR TREATMENT

  • Aqualyx is an injectable fat-dissolving treatment containing deoxycholic acid, which breaks down localised fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise.

  • Suitable treatment areas:

    • Chin (double chin)

    • Jowls

    • Upper arms (bingo wings)

    • Abdomen (stubborn belly fat)

    • Flanks (love handles)

    • Inner and outer thighs

    • Knees

    • Back (bra fat)

  • Aqualyx is not a weight loss treatment but a body contouring method for patients with a BMI under 30 or those with small pockets of resistant fat.

 

PRODUCT STORAGE INFORMATION

  • Store Aqualyx at room temperature (5-25°C).

  • Once opened, it cannot be reused for other patients.

  • Batch numbers and expiry dates must be recorded in the patient’s records.

 

STAFF REQUIREMENTS

  • Only Doctors, Dentists, and Registered Nurses who have completed accredited fat-dissolving injection training may administer Aqualyx.

  • Practitioners must hold valid indemnity insurance and operate within clinical governance standards.

 

PATIENT ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

  • Patients must:

    • Be over 18 years old.

    • Have a stable weight and be committed to maintaining it post-treatment.

    • Understand that Aqualyx is not a weight loss solution.

    • Have realistic expectations regarding results and the time frame for fat breakdown.

 

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

  • Contraindications include:

    • Patients under 18 years old.

    • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

    • Those with severe liver or kidney disease.

    • Patients with autoimmune conditions or severe allergies.

    • Patients on blood thinners (unless GP-approved).

    • Those with loose skin or poor skin elasticity, as Aqualyx does not tighten skin.

 

PREPARATION OF AQUALYX FOR TREATMENT

  • Gather all required materials, including:

    • Aqualyx vials (check expiry date and batch number).

    • Syringes (3ml or 5ml), needles (25G or 27G), or a blunt-tip cannula.

    • Local anaesthetic (Lidocaine 2% with Sodium Bicarbonate if mixing for comfort).

    • Sterile alcohol wipes or Chlorhexidine solution for skin preparation.

    • Gloves, gauze, and a sharps disposal container.

  • Preparation process:

    • Draw up the required amount of Aqualyx into a syringe.

    • If using local anaesthetic, mix 1:5 ratio of Lidocaine 2% into the Aqualyx solution.

    • Ensure proper mixing by gently rolling the syringe between your hands.

    • Attach the chosen needle or cannula before administration.

 

PRE-TREATMENT ASSESSMENT

  • A full consultation must be conducted, including:

    • Medical history and BMI assessment.

    • Assessment of fat distribution, skin elasticity, and suitability for treatment.

    • Pre-treatment photographs for medical documentation.

    • Full discussion of risks, downtime, and expected results.

    • Confirmation of exclusion criteria and allergy history.

    • Informed consent must be signed before proceeding.

 

TREATMENT PROCEDURE

  • Preparation:

    • Mark the treatment area with a sterile marker.

    • Cleanse with Chlorhexidine or 70% isopropyl alcohol.

    • Local anaesthetic can be used to improve patient comfort.

  • Injection Technique:

    • Aqualyx is injected into the subcutaneous fat layer using a cannula or needle.

    • Depth: 6–13mm, depending on the area treated.

    • Dosage per session:

      • Chin/Jowls: 0.5-1.0ml per side

      • Arms/Flanks/Thighs: 3-5ml per side

      • Abdomen/Back: 4-8ml per area

      • Knees: 1-2ml per side

    • Inject slowly and fan out across the treatment area.

    • Massage the area gently for 5 minutes post-procedure.

 

SIDE EFFECTS & MANAGEMENT

  • Common Side Effects (Temporary, 5-14 days):

    • Swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness (90%)

    • Numbness in treated area (50%)

    • Itching or mild discomfort (40%)

  • Rare Side Effects:

    • Lumps & Nodules (5%) - Usually resolve with massage.

    • Skin discolouration (3%) - Avoid sun exposure post-treatment.

    • Infection (1%) - If suspected, prescribe antibiotics.

  • Serious Adverse Effects (Seek Medical Attention Immediately):

    • Allergic reaction or anaphylaxis (0.1%)

    • Necrosis (vascular occlusion risk is extremely low)

 

AFTERCARE ADVICE

  • Stay hydrated (2+ litres of water daily) to aid fat breakdown.

  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine for 24-48 hours.

  • No intense exercise for 5-7 days.

  • Lymphatic drainage massage is recommended for improved fat clearance.

  • Expect mild discomfort, warmth, or swelling for up to 2 weeks.

 

MONITORING & FOLLOW-UP

  • Review at 4-6 weeks to assess results and determine if further sessions are needed.

  • Pre- and post-treatment photographs taken for progress tracking.

  • Ensure proper documentation of batch number, dosage, and injection sites.

 

EMERGENCY CONTACT & AFTERCARE SUPPORT

  • For any concerns post-treatment, clients can contact:

    • Emergency Line: 07514 543015 (WhatsApp available for photos/videos)

    • Email: HausOfAsthetik@icloud.com

    • Clinic Address: 4 Portland Square, Water Street, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1HA, United Kingdom

  • Patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention for severe pain, infection, or signs of an allergic reaction and report any unexpected side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

 

QUALITY ASSURANCE & TRAINING

  • Practitioners must maintain ongoing CPD training in fat-dissolving injections, including:

    • Regular clinical audits for treatment safety.

    • Participation in peer reviews to ensure protocol adherence.

    • Following new clinical guidelines and regulatory updates.

 

FINAL NOTES & COMPLIANCE

  • This protocol aligns with MHRA, Save Face, JCCP, and UK aesthetic regulations to ensure Aqualyx is administered ethically and safely.

  • This protocol is reviewed annually or sooner if clinical guidelines change.