This service is only for foreign residents in Korea. Overseas residents are not eligible.
EN

English consultation available — No language barrier

Basics & Causes
Basics & Causes

Q. How exactly do fat-dissolving injections work to help with weight loss?

A.

Simply put, it is a process of 'breaking down the walls of fat cells.' The injected medication temporarily loosens the fat cell membranes, allowing the trapped lipids to be released. These released fats are then transported out of the body through the bloodstream and lymphatic system, following a cycle of [Injection → Lipolysis → Lymphatic Drainage] to reduce the size of target areas.

📝 Detailed Answer

The core of the process lies in where the decomposed fat goes after the injection. In the human body, the lymphatic system acts as the primary waste disposal network. However, if there is an accumulation of 'Dam-eum' (痰飮)—a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) concept referring to stagnant fluids and metabolic waste—the broken-down fat cannot be effectively drained and remains stagnant, much like a traffic jam on a highway. In such cases, injections alone may lead to swelling rather than fat loss. Therefore, we first examine whether you have 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or a deficiency in the Spleen's function, which impairs overall metabolic capacity. When the Spleen fails to function optimally, fluid metabolism is disrupted, leading to the buildup of Dam-eum and a significant drop in lipolysis efficiency. Furthermore, 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血), or blood stasis, can further obstruct circulation and trigger inflammatory responses. While the injection serves as the 'trigger' to break down the fat, herbal medicine and acupuncture act as the 'cleaners' that open the pathways for that fat to be smoothly discharged. Rather than simply trying to eliminate fat, it is crucial to create an internal environment where your body can naturally and efficiently expel waste.
#cause-explanation #cause-chain
Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Expert Verified

Dr. Yeonseung Choe

Chief Director

Last reviewed 2026.05.13

← Back to Basics & Causes

읽다 보니 내 이야기 같으셨나요?

비슷한 증상이라도 사람마다 원인은 다릅니다. 지금 읽은 내용을 바탕으로 한의사에게 상담을 신청해보세요.
최연승
최연승
백록담한의원 대표원장
경희대학교 한의과대학 졸업 · 임상 17년차
환자의 이야기부터, 진료를 시작합니다