Kybella

What is Kybella?

Are you bothered by extra fullness beneath your chin, also sometimes called a double chin? If so, you are not alone. Both men and women can be affected by submental fullness, which can be caused by weight gain, aging, or genetics. Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that can actually break down fat cells under the chin for a slimmer profile! It is made up of synthetic deoxycholic acid, which is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps to break down dietary fat. Unlike surgical procedures such as liposuction or facial plastic surgery, Kybella offers a non-surgical alternative for reducing excess fat under the chin without the need for cosmetic surgery, incisions, or significant downtime.

The Kybella Treatment

During your Kybella treatment, injection sites will be marked with a marker, and multiple small injections will be administered under the chin, which usually takes about 15–20 minutes to complete. A numbing cream may be applied beforehand to help minimize discomfort, and some patients also describe a feeling of warmth during injections. The exact number of injections will be dependent on the amount of change you would like to see.

Each Kybella treatment will be given at least one month apart, and patients should not undergo more than six treatments. Dr. Erwin can help to create a personalized treatment plan with you during your consultation appointment. It is important to have realistic expectations; while Kybella is highly effective at reducing submental fat, results vary from person to person, and multiple sessions are typically required to achieve your desired outcome.

Kybella Treatment Recovery

Following Kybella injections, swelling, bruising, and numbness in the treatment area may occur. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication can be used to help eliminate any discomfort following treatment. Patients should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24–48 hours after each session to minimize swelling and bruising. There is typically no downtime required, so most patients can return to their normal daily activities as soon as they feel comfortable. Visible results are often seen after 2–4 treatments. Because Kybella injections destroy fat cells, the fat under the chin should not return.

Be sure to let Dr. Erwin know if you experience facial muscle weakness, an uneven smile, trouble swallowing, or nerve injury to the jaw. While these side effects are rare, they can be severe.

Kybella FAQS

Who is a Good Candidate for Kybella?

Adults ages 18 years and older who wish to eliminate moderate to severe fat deposits beneath the chin can often benefit from Kybella treatments. Kybella is not a skin tightening treatment or a replacement for dermal fillers, which address volume and contour in other areas of the face. It is specifically designed to target and destroy submental fat cells that cause a double chin. This non-surgical treatment may not be right for you, however, if you have had or are planning on undergoing facial plastic surgery or other surgical procedures near the chin area, are pregnant or nursing, or have an infection or medical condition near or in the targeted treatment site.

Overall, the best way to determine if you are a good candidate for Kybella and to set realistic expectations for your results is to schedule a consultation at Erwin Dermatology. During this appointment, Dr. Erwin will speak with you regarding your aesthetic goals and medical history, as well as answer any questions that you may have, to create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Contact Us Today

If you are unhappy with excess submental fat under your chin and would like to learn more about how Kybella can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, contact our office today by calling 979-543-9933. We will help you to schedule your consultation, which is your first step toward treatment.