Kybella

What is Kybella?

Kybella is an injectable treatment used to reduce submental fat and eliminate the “double chin” appearance. The formulation contains a synthetic version of deoxycholic acid, a substance naturally found in the body that aids in fat absorption. When injected directly into the area below the chin and jawline, deoxycholic acid causes the destruction of fat cells in the area. The treated fat cells are eliminated by the body’s natural processes over time and the facial contour becomes firmer and more defined.

Kybella is recommended for patients with mild to moderate amounts of fat underneath the chin. If submental fullness is severe, or if there is significant skin laxity in addition to the fullness, a surgical procedure may be necessary to achieve the results desired by the patient.

What is Submental Fat?

Submental fat or fullness is the area under the chin that can expand over time and produce a double chin. The change can give the appearance of weight gain and make a person look older than they feel. This type of fat does not respond to diet and exercise, which means a person can still have the extra fullness even when they have achieved a healthy weight.

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) found that more than two-thirds of people are bothered by a double chin, which is about the same number that is concerned about fine lines and wrinkles. Submental fullness is a significant concern for many, which is why a non-surgical solution to this issue is so popular with patients. According to the Kybella website, clinical trials on Kybella have shown:

• 79 percent of patients treated with Kybella were satisfied with the results of their procedures
• Patients treated with Kybella had improved self-perception after Kybella treatments
• Kybella patients felt “happier” and “younger” after their treatment

Procedure Details

Kybella is administered in several injections placed strategically underneath the chin to produce the most natural, balanced results. Topical numbing cream is usually applied prior to treatment, to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. The procedure usually takes 30 minutes or less to complete. If a numbing cream is applied first, the treatment will take longer to allow time for the topical medication to take effect.

Results of Kybella begin to appear after the very first treatment session, usually within 3-4 weeks following the procedure. However, most patients will require 2-3 treatment sessions, spaced approximately one month apart, to see full results. Dr. Daines will discuss your treatment plan with you at your initial consultation, based on the amount of submental fullness you currently have and the results you are hoping for. Once full results are apparent, they should be permanent as fat cells are permanently destroyed during the procedure.

Recovery Facts

Kybella is a relatively quick procedure performed in our office without the need for anesthesia. Once the procedure is completed, patients are able to return to regular activities right away. However, strenuous exercise is usually discouraged for at least the first 24 hours after the procedure. Some patients experience slight discomfort or swelling immediately following the procedure. The discomfort usually subsides before you leave the office whereas the swelling lasts for 3 to 5 days in most patients. Some patients notice the swelling and discomfort improve with each subsequent Kybella treatment.

Kybella is considered a safe and effective method of reducing a double chin with few risks involved. Rarely, patients may experience redness, prolonged swelling, numbness or difficulty swallowing. Most of these potential complications will resolve on their own within a week if they do occur.

Kybella is still a relatively new method of treating submental fat, gaining FDA approval in April 2015. Dr. Daines is one of the first in the Newport Beach area to provide this innovative treatment. To learn more about Kybella or find out if it is the right treatment for you, contact Daines Plastic Surgery at 949-397-6499.

*Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Steven M Daines has written information about Kybella that has been carefully reviewed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us using our form.