KYBELLA®

What is KYBELLA®?

KYBELLA® is an injectable solution composed of deoxycholic acid, which naturally occurs in the body to break down dietary fat. The FDA-approved treatment is the first of its kind, designed to reduce substantial fatty tissue under the chin. By administering the formula into the target area, patients can achieve a slimmer, more contoured neck appearance. This treatment can offer a more desirable profile by eliminating what is commonly known as a “double chin.”

What is KYBELLA® used for?

The newly released injectable known as KYBELLA® is approved by the FDA to reduce moderate to severe submental fullness (excess fatty tissue under the chin). Patients are typically considered good candidates for the injectable solution if they are 18 years of age or older and are unhappy with a double chin caused by excess fat, as opposed to lax skin or muscles.

The common concern of a double chin was traditionally treated with surgical procedures, like liposuction or a neck lift, but with KYBELLA® patients who seek to treat excess fat in the trouble area can achieve youthful, contouring results without the need for an invasive procedure.

Am I a good candidate for KYBELLA®?

Ideal candidates for treatment with KYBELLA® struggle to eliminate accumulated fatty tissue beneath the chin despite rigorous diet and exercise. Patients who have loose or excess skin hanging from the neck or chin may not be good candidates for KYBELLA® since this treatment is not designed to address skin laxity. Candidates for KYBELLA® must be over the age of 18 and should maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Typically, the best candidates for treatment with KYBELLA® seek to improve the contours and profile of the chin and have realistic expectations for the outcome of this minimally invasive procedure.

To discover if you are a good candidate for KYBELLA®, schedule a one-on-one consultation with an experienced provider. After a thorough physical exam, carefully reviewing your medical history, and discussing your personal cosmetic goals, they can help you make an informed decision about KYBELLA®.

How long does the treatment take?

While treatment time will vary based on the patient and their specific needs, a typical KYBELLA® session takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Since it is relatively quick and is non-surgical, the procedure is performed in the office, making it a convenient solution for a double chin.

What results can I expect?

Following the injectable session, patients typically experience little downtime and should gradually see improvement over time. As the deoxycholic acid is absorbed by the targeted fat cells, a more desirable contour can be seen, especially in the facial profile.

How many treatments will I need?

According to the manufacturer, many patients require multiple treatment sessions with KYBELLA® to attain their desired results. Frequently, two to four injectable sessions are recommended, spaced about 30 days apart. Our aesthetic professionals will discuss with you how many treatment sessions will likely be needed during your initial consultation. The exact number will vary depending upon the volume of submental fullness and your personal cosmetic goals. Once you have completed your full round of treatment sessions, the results from KYBELLA® are considered long-lasting. For some individuals, the results even become permanent.

What does KYBELLA® literally do?

KYBELLA® is made with deoxycholic acid – a molecule that occurs naturally in the human body and is capable of breaking down dietary fat. When the deoxycholic acid formula is injected into the targeted neck area, fat cells are destroyed, begin to dissolve, and will gradually leave the body through metabolic processes. This method of contouring has shown to improve the often unwanted appearance of a double chin.

Is the injection painful?

Our team is committed to patient comfort and safety, which is why we utilize a very fine needle to inject the KYBELLA® solution. This allows for minimal discomfort, though patients can still opt for numbing of the area prior to treatment.

What are the common side effects of treatment?

Side effects from KYBELLA® are typically mild and can include slight swelling, bruising, and potential numbness of the area being treated. Some patients also experience mild discomfort at the injection site, though oral pain medication can easily alleviate this side effect. These potential side effects from treatment with KYBELLA® are temporary and should resolve within a few days to a week.

Is there any downtime associated with KYBELLA®?

Most patients can return to work or their normal daily activities within one to two days after the injection. As an alternative to more invasive procedures such as liposuction or a neck lift, the recovery from KYBELLA® is considered relatively easy and brief. During the consultation process, you will be given detailed recovery information and the typical experience of our patients at KMP Aesthetics.

For more information about KYBELLA® injections, or one of our other cosmetic injectable options, please contact us to schedule an appointment.