What is Kybella?
Kybella is an FDA-approved injection procedure aimed at treating a double chin and improving your profile. The treatment involves the use of purified, synthetic deoxycholic acid to destroy fat cells located in the submental area under your chin. It is a safe and effective nonsurgical alternative to liposuction.
Indications for Kybella
To be eligible for Kybella injections, you should be 18 years of age or older and have excess fat deposition under the chin.
Contraindications for Kybella
Kybella may be contraindicated in the following instances:
- History of facial surgery in the past or planned facial surgery in the future
- Trouble swallowing
- Pregnant or nursing
- Infection or medical condition involving the submental area
- Individuals under 18 years of age
Preparation for the Kybella Injection Procedure
As the treatment is nonsurgical, there is hardly any preparation required other than the following:
- Inform your doctor of your past medical history, allergies, medications, any past surgery of the head, neck, and facial region, or if you are planning to undergo surgery in these areas.
- On the day of the procedure, wash your face with soap and water and avoid putting on any makeup to minimize risk of infection.
- You may be asked to avoid taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen-containing medication to prevent bruising after the treatment.
Kybella Injection Procedure
The Kybella injection procedure involves the following steps:
- Your doctor will use a marker to mark the injection sites under your chin.
- A topical numbing medication or ice pack may be applied to minimize discomfort.
- A series of Kybella injections are then administered into the target area.
- The injections contain synthetic deoxycholic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in the body. The deoxycholic acid destroys the fat cells preventing the storage or accumulation of fat under the chin.
- The number of treatment sessions vary from person to person, but most people require 4-6 sessions spaced about 1 month apart to achieve the best treatment outcomes.
Post-Procedure Recovery after a Kybella Injection
There will be slight discomfort and swelling at the injection sites which will resolve in a few weeks. Other possible temporary side effects include redness, numbness, itching, and a mild headache.
Risks and Complications of Kybella
Possible complications of the Kybella injection procedure include:
- Uneven smile
- Muscle weakness
- Severe bruising
- Redness
You should contact your doctor if you experience any of these signs and symptoms.
Benefits of Kybella
The benefits of Kybella include:
- The main ingredient (deoxycholic acid) is naturally present in the body
- Safe and effective alternative to surgery
- Provides a high level of patient satisfaction
- Offers lasting results as the body does not produce new fat cells once the existing fat cells are destroyed by the deoxycholic acid.