KYBELLA® is the only FDA-approved injectable treatment used in adults to improve the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below the chin (submental fat), also called “double chin.” The active ingredient in KYBELLA® is synthetic deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, KYBELLA® destroys fat cells, and once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat. This results in a noticeable reduction in fullness under the chin, revealing an improved chin profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Injection Lipolysis is a process that uses chemicals to reduce the number of fat cells around the injection site. It operates under a class of medications called cytolytic medications that work to break down cells in fatty tissue. The procedure uses deoxycholic acid, a molecule found within the gastrointestinal tract that works to metabolize fat. When performed, the injection comes as a liquid and is injected subcutaneously into the skin. Through a period of two to four treatments, the fat molecules are destroyed, leaving behind a smoother, younger-looking neck area.
As the most popular brand, Kybella is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring deoxycholic acid. Kybella is FDA-approved for treating areas underneath the chin to eliminate what is commonly known as “double chin” but is sometimes used off-label to treat other stubborn areas of the body such as the “bra-fat” and “banana roll” areas. Complications with Kybella are uncommon, Some minor side effects may include swelling, bruising, and mild pain after the injection.
People who are good candidates for Kybella include those who have excess fat under the chin and have ruled out alternative treatments such as liposuction and other plastic surgical procedures. Good candidates for Kybella are also aware of the time and commitment required for this treatment.
Fat reduction with Kybella is typically visible by eight weeks. Most patients have at least two Kybella treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to allow for the typical duration of swelling. At most, patients can have up to six treatments to the area under the chin. During the period of swelling, the area treated can look fuller than it did before. As the fat cells are removed and the inflammation lessens, most patients will see results by 6 to 8 weeks after treatment.
For more information, our provider at Youthology Medical will discuss with you whether Kybella will work for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Injection Lipolysis?
Injection Lipolysis is a process that uses chemicals to reduce the number of fat cells around the injection site. It operates under a class of medications called cytolytic medications that work to break down cells in fatty tissue. The procedure uses deoxycholic acid, a molecule found within the gastrointestinal tract that works to metabolize fat. When performed, the injection comes as a liquid and is injected subcutaneously into the skin. Through a period of two to four treatments, the fat molecules are destroyed, leaving behind a smoother, younger-looking neck area.
What is Kybella?
As the most popular brand, Kybella is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring deoxycholic acid. Kybella is FDA-approved for treating areas underneath the chin to eliminate what is commonly known as “double chin.” While only approved for the chin and neck areas, pharmacies can provide other preparations that are similar to the Kybella according to tested regulations. However, about 85 to 90 percent of patients are very satisfied with Kybella injections after double chin treatment. Complications with Kybella are uncommon, and patients require no downtime after the procedure. Some minor side effects may include swelling, bruising, and mild pain after the injection.
What Are The Risks of Kybella Treatment?
Common side effects after Kybella are swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness, and areas of hardness near or around the treatment area. In rarer cases, Kybella can cause serious side effects, including problems such as bruising, hair loss, open sores (ulcers), and damage and tissue cell death (necrosis) around the injection site. It’s essential to call your healthcare provider if you begin developing signs of open sores or drainage from the treatment area.
Am I a Candidate for Kybella Treatment?
Your plastic surgeon can develop a Kybella treatment plan that best suits your desires and needs. People who are good candidates for Kybella include those who have excess fat under the chin and have ruled out alternative treatments such as liposuction and other plastic surgeries. Good candidates for Kybella are also aware of the time and commitment required for this treatment. The best results from Kybella may require six treatments over six months to achieve.
What Results Should I Expect From Kybella Treatment?
Fat reduction with Kybella is typically visible by eight weeks. Most patients have at least two Kybella treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to allow for the typical duration of swelling. At most, patients can have up to six treatments to the area under the chin. During the period of swelling, the area treated can look fuller than it did before. As the fat cells are removed and the inflammation lessens, most patients will see results by 6 to 8 weeks after treatment.
For more information, our provider at Youthology Medical will discuss with you whether Kybella will work for you.
Kybella® is a fat dissolving, nonsurgical injectable technique often used to target the fat beneath the chin. As an FDA-approved treatment, this treatment can help remove the excessive fat in areas around the neck and chin, without the pain and complications that often come with surgery. In most patients, visible results are noticeable within 2-4 treatments.
