Double chins are a common development as we age—and for those who have a hereditary propensity towards the development of “submental fullness”, also known as a double chin, these fatty deposits can occur even during youth. Particularly for those of us who have experienced past weight gain, the resulting double chin can be very hard to tame with diet and exercise. Fortunately, Kybella® is an innovative, non-surgical solution for addressing under-chin fat, and is performed quickly and with minimal discomfort. Kybella® is the first and only FDA-approved injectable solution to address submental fullness.
How Does Kybella® Work?
The active ingredient in Kybella® is deoxycholic acid, one of the secondary bile acids secreted by the liver to metabolize fat from food. Purified and concentrated for cosmetic use in Kybella®, this same acid first breaks down and then emulsifies fat underneath the chin, allowing for the body’s natural process of elimination to remove the deposits and restore a firm and contoured appearance.
It may take two to four treatment sessions for results from Kybella® to be fully realized. When needed, your licensed injector can administer as many as six treatments over the course of several months. How many treatments you will require depends on various factors unique to your makeup and can be discussed in detail during your initial Kybella® consultation. Once treatment is completed, your results will be permanent. Fat eliminated through Kybella® injections cannot come back.
Is Kybella® safe?
Kybella® is FDA-approved for the elimination of fat deposits underneath the chin, but may not be right for every patient. While the safety and efficacy of this nonsurgical treatment are well-documented, some side-effects are possible.
Because deoxycholic acid is naturally secreted by the body, adverse reactions to Kybella® are uncommon. However, side-effects including swelling, bruising, numbness, and pain may accompany this treatment. These and other side-effects lasting for more than a few days should be brought to the attention of your licensed injector.
What is submental fullness?
Submental fullness is a gathering of excess fat beneath the chin, commonly known as “double chin.” It can be something you’ve had your whole life due to genetics, or start to appear as you get older or if you gain weight.
How long will results last?
When injected into fat under the chin, Kybella® causes the destruction of fat cells. Once destroyed, those cells cannot store or accumulate fat. After reaching your desired aesthetic, further treatment is not expected.
Can Kybella® be used on jowls?
Kybella® is only FDA-approved for use on a double chin. Using it on jowl fat could damage, irritate or injure the marginal mandibular facial nerve. If you have questions regarding jowl fat, ask your medically licensed aesthetic injection specialist about other options. If your jowl fat is extensive, a surgical procedure may be your best and only option. Kybella® cannot be used anywhere except the double chin area.
Is Kybella® painful?
During clinical trials, patients commonly reported swelling, bruising, numbness and mild pain following the injections. This can be managed with an injectable numbing agent before treatment and topically applying ice to reduce swelling. Any discomfort associated with the treatment generally subsides within a few days.