What Is Kybella? What Should I Expect from the Procedure?

Are you looking for a procedure to help with your double chin? You may have heard of Kybella, which is a nonsurgical technique that focuses on the fat in this area. It involves a sequence of deoxycholic acid injections that target fat cells located in the area under the chin. There are no incisions and downtime is minimal.

In 2015, a study by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) found that 67% of respondents were bothered with extra fat under the chin. Kybella is currently the sole injectable technique to help that has been approved by the FDA.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Kybella?

In general, the top candidate for Kybella is an individual who is at least 18 years old and has moderate or severe fat under the chin.

If you expect to have or have already had a facial surgical procedure, you may not be a great candidate. Other things that might preclude you from Kybella are nursing, being pregnant, or having a medical condition or infection near the injection site.

How to Prepare for Kybella

The first step is to speak to a medical practitioner to determine whether you are a good candidate for Kybella. You’ll talk about your medical history as well as cosmetic procedures that you have had done on the chin, neck, or face. Let the provider know if you have bleeding issues or trouble swallowing.

Since research is still ongoing about whether Kybella will affect an infant or fetus, make sure you let them know if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing a child.

Kybella requires very little preparation. It’s best to schedule the procedure before any major events. Make sure your face is washed before the procedure to prevent infection. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be used to avoid bruising.

What Is the Procedure Like?

Deoxycholic acid is created by the body to absorb fat. Kybella injections use a manmade form of the acid in the chin so it cannot store fat. Before the process begins, the provider will use a marker to note the injection sites. An ice pack or topical agent may be used to prevent discomfort and pain.

In most cases, 20 or 30 injections will be made. However, in some cases, up to 50 doses may be required. Multiple treatments will often be needed for the best results. The acid will slowly kill the fat cells and the body will metabolize them over time.

Each person is different so the quantity of treatments needed can vary. Multiple treatments could be needed depending on the situation. You can have a total of six Kybella treatments with a month between the sessions.

Wrapping Up

You may need additional treatment to reach your aesthetic goals with these injections. Based on clinical studies, many people see results within two to four treatments. About 59% of people needed six treatments. Get in touch for more info.