Treatment Overview
Belkyra (known as Kybella in the U.S.) is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that uses deoxycholic acid (DA) to dissolve and permanently destroy fat cells. While it is most famous for treating the double chin, Korean dermatology clinics also use Belkyra off-label for small, localized fat pockets, such as upper arm fat.
Belkyra works by breaking down fat cell membranes, after which the body naturally eliminates the destroyed fat cells over several weeks. In the arms, this leads to slimmer, more contoured upper arms without the need for liposuction or invasive surgery.
Purpose & Benefits
- Arm Fat Reduction: Breaks down stubborn fat pockets in the upper arms.
- Slimmer Arm Contour: Refines arm shape for a leaner silhouette.
- Non-Surgical Alternative: Injections only, no incisions or anesthesia.
- Permanent Fat Removal: Destroyed fat cells do not regenerate.
- Quick Treatment: Sessions last about 20–30 minutes.
Ideal Candidates
Belkyra for arm fat in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with small to moderate localized fat deposits in the upper arms.
- Patients who want non-surgical fat reduction.
- Those with good skin elasticity (to avoid sagging after fat loss).
- Individuals seeking gradual, natural-looking results.
- Patients combining Belkyra with RF or HIFU for additional skin tightening.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Swelling & Redness: Common for 1–7 days post-treatment.
- Bruising or Tenderness: Temporary injection-site reaction.
- Numbness or Firmness: May last a few weeks but subsides.
- Uneven Results (rare): Usually avoided with skilled injection mapping.
- Not Suitable For: Pregnant women, severely obese patients, or those with significant skin laxity in arms.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Injection Mapping: Dermatologist marks the target fat areas on the arms.
- Deoxycholic Acid (DA): Active ingredient that emulsifies and destroys fat cells.
- Micro-Injections: Multiple small injections placed strategically into fat layer.
- Sessions Required: Typically 2–4 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Swelling, redness, or mild pain at injection site.
- 1–3 Days: Peak swelling, tenderness, and bruising.
- 1–2 Weeks: Visible improvement as swelling fades.
- Aftercare Tips:
- Apply cold packs to reduce swelling.
- Avoid heavy upper body workouts for 3–5 days.
- Stay hydrated to help metabolize fat.
- Maintain stable weight for long-term results.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Mild fat reduction, though swelling may mask results.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable slimming and contouring of arms.
- After 4 Sessions: Significant fat reduction with long-lasting results.
- Longevity: Permanent results, as destroyed fat cells do not return. Weight gain may lead to new fat accumulation.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Arm Analysis
- Dermatologist examines fat distribution and skin elasticity.
- Injection plan designed (number of points + sessions).
- Preparation
- Skin cleansed and disinfected.
- Numbing cream applied if needed.
- Injection grid marked on upper arms.
- Belkyra Injection Session
- Step 1: Series of micro-injections placed into targeted fat layer.
- Step 2: Deoxycholic acid begins dissolving fat cells.
- Step 3: Cooling packs applied to reduce swelling.
- Post-Treatment Care in Clinic
- Observation for 10–15 minutes.
- Aftercare instructions explained.
- Follow-Up
- Sessions repeated every 4–6 weeks.
- 2–4 sessions usually needed for optimal slimming.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Expert Mapping Techniques: Korean dermatologists specialize in precise injection planning.
- V-Line & Slim Aesthetics: Adapted to Korean beauty ideals of slim, defined arms.
- Combination-Oriented: Often paired with RF or HIFU for skin tightening.
- Safe & Gentle: Refined protocols reduce risk of lumpiness or irregularity.
- Affordable Packages: Multi-session discounts widely available in Seoul.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Small Arm Area (localized fat): USD 500 – 800 per session
- Full Upper Arm Treatment: USD 800 – 1,500 per session
- Multi-Session Packages (2–4 sessions): USD 2,000 – 4,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 30 – 100
- Add-ons (HIFU, RF tightening, mesotherapy): USD 300 – 900 per session
- Premium Packages (Belkyra + HIFU/RF + Skin Boosters): USD 3,500 – 6,000
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Belkyra + RF for arm fat and skin tightening.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery: Upper arm contouring with Belkyra injection packages.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Belkyra + mesotherapy boosters for firming.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Belkyra with HIFU for arm slimming.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium Belkyra programs with regenerative therapies.
