Aqualyx Protocol

HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK

AQUALYX FAT DISSOLVING INJECTION PROTOCOL

DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION 1st April 2025

REVIEW DATE 1st April 2026

VERSION NUMBER

INTRODUCTION

This protocol outlines the safe, effective, and evidence-based administration of Aqualyx Fat Dissolving Injections at HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK. Aqualyx is a CE-marked, non-surgical fat reduction treatment designed to permanently eliminate localised fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise. The active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, disrupts fat cell membranes, allowing the body to metabolise and remove the fat naturally through the lymphatic system. Aqualyx provides a minimally invasive alternative to liposuction, offering gradual, natural fat reduction with minimal downtime.

This protocol ensures full compliance with CQC, Save Face, NICE, GMC, NMC, MHRA, and HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK’s internal policies, including Medicines Management, Infection Control, Record Keeping, Consent, and Patient Safety Policies. Aqualyx injections may only be performed by medically trained professionals (Doctors, Dentists, and Registered Nurses) who have completed accredited Aqualyx training or have relevant NHS experience in aesthetic medicine, dermatology, or weight management.

MECHANISM OF ACTIONAqualyx works by breaking down and metabolising localised fat deposits, leading to gradual, natural fat elimination through the lymphatic system. Its unique formulation includes:

   • Deoxycholic Acid: A secondary bile acid that destroys fat cell membranes, allowing fat to be released and naturally eliminated

   • Buffering Agents: Maintain tissue integrity and reduce post-treatment inflammation

   • Water-Based Gel Solution: Ensures controlled, localised fat breakdown while minimising discomfort

Aqualyx is not a weight-loss solution but a body contouring treatment designed for individuals near their ideal body weight who struggle with isolated fat deposits.

INDICATIONS FOR TREATMENT

Aqualyx is indicated for individuals seeking targeted fat reduction in stubborn areas resistant to diet and exercise. Common treatment areas include:

   • Chin and jawline contouring

   • Arms (bingo wings)

   • Back fat (bra bulge and lower back rolls)

   • Abdomen and love handles

   • Thighs (inner and outer areas)

   • Knees and calves

BORDERS AND SAFE INJECTION ZONES

Chin and Jawline

   • Injection Depth: Superficial subcutaneous (4mm–6mm depth)

   • Borders: Avoid injection into platysmal bands or thyroid region

Abdomen and Flanks

   • Injection Depth: Mid-subcutaneous fat (6mm–12mm depth)

   • Borders: Avoid injecting directly over major blood vessels or abdominal muscles

Thighs and Arms

   • Injection Depth: Mid-subcutaneous layer (8mm–12mm depth)

   • Borders: Stay 2cm away from major veins and nerves

PRODUCT STORAGE INFORMATION

Aqualyx must be stored at 2°C–25°C in a temperature-controlled environment.

   • Do not freeze or expose to direct sunlight

   • Check expiry dates and batch numbers before each treatment

   • Use single-use syringes and aseptic techniques for preparation

STAFF REQUIREMENTS

   • Only Doctors, Dentists, and Registered Nurses with documented Aqualyx training may administer these treatments

   • Practitioners must hold valid indemnity insurance

   • Non-prescribers must work under the guidance of a prescriber

INCLUSION CRITERIA

   • Patients over 18 years old

   • Patients who maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle

   • Patients with small, localised fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise

   • Patients with realistic expectations regarding results and treatment course

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

Aqualyx is contraindicated in:

   • Patients under 18 (refer to Safeguarding Policy and Children’s Act 2021)

   • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals

   • Patients with diabetes or uncontrolled metabolic conditions

   • Active skin infections or inflammation at the treatment site

   • Autoimmune diseases or compromised immune systems

   • Severe liver or kidney dysfunction affecting fat metabolism

   • Severe obesity (BMI over 35)

PRE-TREATMENT ASSESSMENT

A comprehensive consultation must include:

   • Full medical history, medication review, and allergy history

   • Assessment of BMI and body fat distribution

   • Analysis of skin elasticity and subcutaneous fat thickness

   • Pre-treatment photographs for progress tracking

   • Informed consent covering treatment risks, benefits, and expectations

Patients must avoid alcohol, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning medications for 48 hours before treatment to minimise bruising and swelling.

TREATMENT ADMINISTRATION

Step 1: Patient Preparation and Marking

   • Cleanse and disinfect the treatment area using chlorhexidine or 70% isopropyl alcohol

   • Mark the treatment zones using a grid pattern to ensure even distribution

   • Apply topical numbing cream or local lidocaine if required

Step 2: Injection Technique

   • Use a 30G or 32G needle for superficial injections (chin and face areas)

   • Use a 27G needle for deeper injections (abdomen, thighs, arms, flanks)

   • Administer Aqualyx in a microbolus pattern, spacing injections 1cm apart

   • Massage the area post-injection to aid absorption and prevent nodules

DOSAGE GUIDELINES

Treatment Area	Volume Per Session	Injection Depth
Chin & Jawline	2–5mL	4mm–6mm (subcutaneous)
Abdomen & Flanks	10–20mL	6mm–12mm (subcutaneous)
Thighs & Arms	10–15mL	8mm–12mm (subcutaneous)

 

HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE NEEDED?

   • Mild fat deposits: Two to three sessions, spaced four weeks apart

   • Moderate fat deposits: Four to five sessions, spaced four weeks apart

   • Maintenance treatments may be required every six to twelve months

Visible results typically develop three to four weeks after the first session, with optimal results seen after the full treatment course.

POST-TREATMENT CARE

   • Avoid touching or massaging the area for 24 hours

   • Refrain from alcohol, NSAIDs, or blood-thinning medications for 48 hours

   • Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support fat metabolism

   • Avoid excessive heat exposure (saunas, hot baths, steam rooms) for one week

   • Wear compression garments if advised to support lymphatic drainage

Mild swelling, redness, and tenderness may occur but typically resolve within three to five days.

ADVERSE EVENTS MANAGEMENT

Common side effects include bruising, swelling, tenderness, and minor redness.

Severe complications requiring immediate medical intervention include:

   • Vascular compromise or accidental intravascular injection

   • Allergic reactions or excessive inflammation

   • Infection at the injection site

All severe adverse reactions must be reported to the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme and documented in the clinic’s incident log.

QUALITY ASSURANCE AND TRAINING

   • Practitioners must complete ongoing CPD in fat-dissolving techniques, injection safety, and complication management

   • Regular clinical audits and peer reviews will be conducted to maintain the highest safety and efficacy standards

CONCLUSION

The Aqualyx Fat Dissolving Protocol at HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK ensures safe, effective, and ethical administration, providing optimal patient care, safety, and regulatory compliance.