At Velvet Skin & Laser, we see many clients frustrated with stubborn fat pockets that don’t respond to diet or exercise — areas like the double chin, love handles or bra bulge. Lemon Bottle fat dissolving injections have become a popular non-surgical option in the UK for targeting these spots, using a solution to break down fat cells that the body then naturally eliminates.
As experienced aesthetic practitioners, we always stress that Lemon Bottle isn’t a weight loss solution — it’s for localised fat reduction in healthy individuals. When done correctly, it can deliver noticeable contouring, but results vary based on your body, lifestyle and number of sessions.
In this 2026 guide, we’ll cover:
- The problem of stubborn fat & how Lemon Bottle works
- Realistic before & after results
- The treatment process step-by-step
- Typical UK costs in 2026
- Recovery, aftercare & risks
- FAQs from our clients
If you’re considering Lemon Bottle injections and want an honest assessment, book a consultation in the lemon bottle treatments page — we’ll evaluate if it’s suitable for you.
The Problem: Stubborn Fat Pockets That Won’t Budge
Stubborn fat is often genetic or hormone-related — think submental fat (double chin), abdominal pouches or arm flab. Even with a healthy BMI, these areas resist traditional weight loss because fat cells there are more resistant to breakdown.
Lemon Bottle injections use a deoxycholic acid-based solution (similar to Kybella in the US) to disrupt fat cell membranes. The body then metabolises and eliminates the released fat over weeks. It’s approved for cosmetic use in the UK under MHRA guidelines for aesthetics, but it’s not a regulated medicine like Botox — so it’s only available from trained practitioners in licensed clinics.
From our clinic experience, Lemon Bottle is best for small to medium fat pockets in areas with good skin elasticity. It’s not for large volumes or loose skin (where it could worsen sagging).
How Lemon Bottle Fat Dissolving Injections Work – Step by Step
- Consultation: We assess your medical history, fat areas, skin elasticity and goals. Ultrasound or callipers may measure fat thickness. We explain risks and set realistic expectations — e.g. 20–30% fat reduction per session for suitable candidates.
- Preparation The area is cleaned and marked. No numbing is usually needed (the injections are quick), but ice can be applied.
- Injection Small amounts of Lemon Bottle solution are injected into the fat layer using a fine needle. The solution causes fat cells to rupture, releasing contents for body elimination.
- After treatment Mild swelling starts immediately (normal reaction). We provide ice packs and aftercare advice.
- Follow-up Review at 4–6 weeks. Most need 2–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for optimal results.
From NHS and BAAPS guidelines, fat dissolving injections like Lemon Bottle are minimally invasive but require a qualified medical professional to avoid complications like uneven results or skin dimpling.
Realistic Before & After Results
Results are gradual — no instant slimming. Based on clinic data and peer-reviewed studies (e.g. from Aesthetic Surgery Journal), here’s what to expect:
Common improvements
- 20–30% fat reduction in treated area after 2–4 sessions
- Smoother contours, reduced bulge (e.g. slimmer chin profile)
- Better skin tightness if combined with RF or HIFU
Timeline
- Days 1–7: Swelling & tenderness (peak day 2–3)
- Weeks 2–4: Swelling subsides, fat breakdown begins
- Month 2–3: Visible slimming, full results
- Duration: Permanent (destroyed fat cells don’t return, but weight gain can create new ones)
Before & after examples (not guaranteed — individual results vary):
- Double chin: Before: Full, soft submental area; After: Sharper jawline, 25% reduction
- Love handles: Before: Stubborn side bulges; After: Smoother waist, 20% fat loss
- Arms: Before: Bingo wings; After: Firmer upper arms, reduced flab
Important: Lemon Bottle works best for BMI <30 and localised fat. Darker skin tones may risk pigmentation changes — we always test first.
Typical Cost of Lemon Bottle Injections in the UK in 2026
Costs depend on area size, number of vials and clinic location (London higher than elsewhere).
Realistic range (Velvet Skin & Laser and similar UK clinics in 2026)
- Small area (chin): £150 per session
- Medium area (love handles/arms): £200 per session
- Large area (stomach/thighs): £275 per session
We quote exactly after consultation — no pressure sales.
Recovery & Aftercare – What to Expect
Day 1–3: Swelling, tenderness, possible bruising (normal as fat breaks down)
Week 1: Swelling peaks then reduces; avoid exercise/alcohol
Week 2+: Return to normal; final results emerge over 4–8 weeks
Aftercare tips we give every client
- Drink plenty of water (helps flush fat)
- Wear compression garment if advised (reduces swelling)
- No heat (saunas, hot baths) for 48 hours
- Avoid NSAID painkillers (increase bruising)
- Gentle massage after day 3 (if recommended)
Most clients resume work the next day, but plan for swelling in visible areas like chin.
Risks & Side Effects
Lemon Bottle is safe when administered by trained professionals, but risks include:
- Swelling, bruising, tenderness (common, resolves in 7–14 days)
- Nodules or unevenness (rare, may need massage)
- Skin discoloration in darker tones (low risk with proper screening)
- Allergic reaction or infection (very rare)
From MHRA guidelines, fat dissolving injections are cosmetic and not licensed as medicines — always choose a regulated clinic. We screen all clients for contraindications like pregnancy, bleeding disorders or active infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Lemon Bottle results last?
Permanent for treated fat cells — but maintain weight to avoid new fat.
Does Lemon Bottle hurt?
Mild discomfort during injections (like a sting). Swelling is the main post-treatment sensation.
How many sessions do I need?
2–4 for most areas, spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
Can Lemon Bottle remove large fat areas?
No — it’s for localised pockets. For significant fat, consider cryolipolysis or liposuction.
Is Lemon Bottle safe?
Yes — when done by qualified practitioners. It’s not FDA-approved but widely used in UK aesthetics.
How much does Lemon Bottle cost at Velvet Skin & Laser?
£150–£275 per session (exact quote after assessment).
Ready to Contour Your Stubborn Fat Areas?
Lemon Bottle fat dissolving injections can be an effective way to slim localised fat — but only if it’s the right fit for your body and goals.
The first step is a thorough consultation so we can measure the area, discuss expectations and create a personalised plan.
Book your Lemon Bottle consultation today — we’ll help you decide if it’s suitable, with real before & after examples from our clinic.
