Kybella

If you are bothered by extra fullness under your chin and want to improve your profile's appearance, Kybella® may be the perfect solution. Kybella® is an injectable treatment that permanently destroys the fat cells that cause a "double chin," therefore improving the contour of the chin and jawline. Even if this area has been resistant to diet and exercise in the past, Kybella® is an effective, non-surgical, non-invasive way to slim and define your jawline.

What is Kybella® and how do they work? 

Kybella® is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment that contours and improves the appearance of your profile by destroying submental fat. The active ingredient in Kybella® is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in our body that helps break down and absorb fat.

When injected into the fat below the chin, Kybella® begins to break down and dissolve the fat cells in this area. Once the cells are destroyed, they can no longer store or accumulate fat. Your body's lymphatic system safely removes the dead cells over several weeks. As each week passes, the volume under the chin diminishes, and the appearance of your profile improves. Depending on the amount of fat initially present, a series of treatments may be needed to reach your aesthetic goal.

Kybella® is FDA-approved to eliminate fat under the chin to improve a patient's profile, but your provider can use it to reduce fat in other areas.

Who is a good candidate for Kybella®?

You are a good candidate for Kybella® if:

  • The fat under your chin is resistant to diet, exercise, and weight loss efforts
  • You feel like the fullness under your chin makes you appear older or heavier than you are
  • A double chin runs in your family and is genetic
  • You want a non-surgical option to improve your profile
  • You are unhappy with the fat under your chin
  • You want the appearance of your jawline to appear more contoured and defined

How much does Kybella® cost?

Kybella® is purchased by the vial. The number of vials you will need for each treatment and the total treatments necessary to achieve your aesthetic goal will be discussed at your initial consultation with your provider. Some people may only need one vial while others may need two vials with two to three rounds.

Because Kybella® is part of the Allergan Aesthetics portfolio of products, you can earn points and save on Kybella® by joining the Alle rewards program.

How long until I see results with Kybella®?

Most patients begin to notice their results from Kybella® about six weeks after their last injection, but the treatment area will continue to improve for up to three months as your body continues to clear away destroyed fat cells. Most Kybella® treatments require two to four treatment sessions depending on the amount of fat initially present and the overall improvement desired. Treatments are spaced four to six weeks apart.

Although your Kybella® results are permanent, you are encouraged to stay within your ideal weight range to maintain the new contours of your profile.

How do I care for my skin before and after a Kybella® treatment?

During your appointment, we mark your chin for several tiny injections. The whole process can take as little as 15 minutes. Some patients report a burning and achy sensation during the injections, but this feeling subsides after just a few minutes.

Immediately after your Kybella® injections, your chin area will be swollen, feel full, and may become tender. Bruising and numbness may also occur at the injection site and may take several weeks to subside. To decrease your chance of bruising, your provider may advise you to avoid the use of aspirin before your treatment and other blood-thinning supplements, such as fish oil.

You can resume normal activities immediately after your Kybella® injections. We recommend using an ice pack for several nights after treatment and keeping your head elevated to reduce swelling. As Kybella® destroys fat cells over the coming weeks, you may experiences some redness, numbness, and a feeling of firmness at the injection site. These symptoms should resolve within four to five weeks as your results set in.

Schedule your Kybella® treatments several months before any special events.