Kybella® is an FDA-approved injectable treatment for the reduction of submental fat, also known as a double chin. Its purpose is to improve the appearance and contour of the neck and jawline. Below are frequently asked questions about Kybella® since it is a relatively new and innovative treatment, and people want to know more about its effectiveness, safety, and potential side effects.
What Is Kybella®?
Kybella® is a prescription medication used for treating submental fullness, commonly called a “double chin.” It is made of deoxycholic acid, a molecule naturally found in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the submental area, Kybella® destroys fat cells, resulting in a more contoured and defined jawline.
This non-surgical injectable treatment is the only FDA-approved injectable treatment that eliminates fat cells under the chin to improve the look of a double chin. Unlike other treatments, such as liposuction, Kybella® does not require surgery, anesthesia, or a long recovery time.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Kybella®?
The ideal candidates for KYBELLA® are those bothered by submental fullness, commonly called a double chin, but are otherwise in good health and at a stable weight. They should have good skin elasticity and no underlying medical conditions that may affect healing. Candidates should also have realistic expectations and be willing to follow post-treatment care instructions. In addition, several factors can affect a person’s candidacy for KYBELLA® treatment, including age, weight, and medical history.
- Age: Generally, adults over 18 years old can be considered for Kybella® treatment. However, older individuals may have less skin elasticity and may not see the same results as younger patients.
- Weight: Kybella® is not a weight-loss treatment best suited for individuals with moderate submental fullness. People who are significantly overweight may not be good candidates for the procedure.
- Medical History: Certain medical conditions may affect a person’s eligibility for Kybella® treatment. For example, individuals with bleeding disorders or taking blood-thinning medication may be at higher risk for complications during the procedure.
What To Expect During Kybella® Treatment?
The Kybella® treatment process often begins with a consultation with a licensed practitioner who may assess the patient’s needs and determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. During the treatment, the provider will apply a topical numbing agent to the treatment area, then administer multiple injections of Kybella® using a fine needle.
The number of injections needed will vary depending on the patient’s individual needs but typically range from 20-30 injections per treatment session. The entire treatment process usually takes around 15-20 minutes to complete.
After the injections are administered, patients may experience some temporary swelling, redness, and mild discomfort in the treatment area. Typically, these side effects go away after a few days. Multiple treatment sessions may be recommended, spaced at least one month apart, depending on the individual’s needs.
How Many Kybella® Treatments Are Needed?
The number of Kybella® treatments required to achieve optimal results can vary depending on the individual. Most patients generally require 2-4 treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart.
However, the number of treatments needed may be influenced by the degree of submental fullness being treated, the size of the treatment area, and the individual’s response to the treatment. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight can help to prolong the results of Kybella® treatment.
What Are The Results Of Kybella®?
Kybella® treatment can significantly reduce submental fullness, often referred to as a double chin. The results are typically gradual, with most patients seeing improvement within two to four treatment sessions.
Additional treatments may be required in some circumstances to acquire the best outcomes. The final results are generally long-lasting, as the fat cells targeted by Kybella® are permanently destroyed and eliminated from the body.
What Are the Potential Kybella® Side Effects?
Kybella® is generally well-tolerated but can have side effects like any medical treatment. Swelling, bruising, discomfort, numbness, redness, and hardness in the treatment area are the most typical side effects of Kybella®.
In addition, these known side effects are often mild to moderate in severity and, in fact, resolve on their own in a matter of days to weeks. To manage these side effects, patients may be advised to apply ice to the treated area, avoid strenuous physical activity, and take over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
More serious side effects of Kybella® are rare, but they can occur. These include nerve injury that can cause facial muscle weakness or an uneven smile, difficulty swallowing, and tissue damage.
Patients who experience any of these negative effects should contact their doctor immediately. Before starting Kybella® treatment, patients should discuss their medical history and any drugs they take with their healthcare professional to ensure their safety.
How To Prepare For Kybella® Treatment?
Certain requirements must be followed prior to getting Kybella® therapy to ensure a safe and successful operation. Here are some tips to help patients to prepare:
- Schedule a consultation with a healthcare professional trained and experienced in administering Kybella®. They will evaluate the patient’s medical history, current health status, and aesthetic goals to determine if the treatment best suits the patient.
- Avoid using blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements, for at least 1-2 weeks prior to treatment not to increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Quit smoking at least two weeks prior to treatment since it can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
- No alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours prior to the treatment to minimize bruising risk.
- No physical activity or strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours prior to treatment since it can increase blood flow and increase the risk of bruising.
- Plan for downtime and avoid scheduling important events or activities for at least a few days after treatment.
Following these rules can assist in guaranteeing a safe and successful Kybella® treatment. Before beginning therapy, discuss any questions or concerns with the healthcare provider.
The Bottom Line
Kybella® is an effective and safe treatment for submental fullness, and by understanding the ideal candidates, treatment process, and post-care instructions, individuals can achieve optimal results with minimal risk. At Envi Aesthetics, we offer Kybella® as a permanent solution to eliminating small pockets of fat and is the only FDA-approved injectable treatment, improving the appearance and profile of fat under the chin. Ultimately, get all your questions answered and take the first step towards a defined jawline and more confidence with KYBELLA®.