Kybella®

Kybella is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment that improves the appearance of submental fullness, also known as a “double chin.” Submental fullness is a very common cosmetic condition that impacts almost all individuals.

A double chin, which is resistant to diet and exercise, can be affected by several factors, including genetics, weight gain, and aging. Many patients are self-conscious about a double chin because it can cause a heavier appearance to the face and impact the natural contours of the chin. Kybella treatment is the first cosmetic procedure of its kind and is a great alternative for individuals with moderate-to-severe submental fullness who do not wish to undergo a neck lift or other surgical procedures.

How Kybella® Works

Kybella, an FDA-approved injectable treatment made by the well-known manufacturer Allergan, is a non-surgical procedure that utilizes an active ingredient called deoxycholic acid, which is a naturally occurring molecule in the body. Deoxycholic acid helps break down and absorb unnecessary dietary fat cells. In its synthetic form, deoxycholic acid can be injected into the submental area to reduce subcutaneous fat cells and achieve a more contoured chin profile.

When Kybella is injected into the submental fat beneath the chin, it destroys the excess fat cells. Once Kybella causes the destruction of the excess fat cells, those fat cells are unable to store or accumulate future fat, offering long-lasting results. In clinical studies, Kybella and deoxycholic acid have been shown to be very effective at destroying fat cells in the treatment area.

Is Kybella® right for me?

Only a consultation with you and Dr. Capek can determine if Kybella treatment is right for you. She will examine your double chin and determine whether Kybella can achieve your desired goals. She will also discuss your medical history to determine if Kybella treatment is safe for you. Finally, she will help decide how many treatments you need based on your aesthetic desires.

Kybella injections are not for people that have an infection in the treatment area or who have certain bleeding problems, facial muscle weakness, or trouble swallowing. Kybella injections are also not indicated for severe fat or as a weight loss method. If you are 18 years or older, at a relatively stable weight, and want to eliminate your double chin, you are most likely a great candidate for Kybella.

Kybella works best on firmer skin – it cannot get rid of sagging skin under the chin region and if this is a concern, you may be a better candidate for a neck lift surgery. It also cannot correct a weak chin. Dr. Capek can help you determine the best treatment plan for your chin area.

The Kybella Treatment

You and Dr. Capek will design a treatment plan customized for your particular chin profile. During your treatment sessions, our certified injector will administer a topical numbing agent to the treatment site and then inject Kybella into the submental fat cells under your chin region at multiple injection sites. This usually follows a grid pattern to ensure the deoxycholic acid injections treat the whole chin area. After the Kybella injections, you can return home.

Kybella Recovery and Results

Over the next four to six weeks, the deoxycholic acid destroys fat cells in the submental area. The body then flushes the subcutaneous fat cells out through the metabolic system as a waste product. It’s normal to have some swelling and redness at the injection sites and treatment area but this subsides before your next treatment sessions.

You may begin to see a noticeable improvement in submental fat after two treatments. Most patients see optimal results within 2-4 treatment sessions spaced at least one month apart, but up to six treatments may be necessary to treat any remaining fat cells and achieve your desired results. With a healthy lifestyle that prevents weight gain, many patients enjoy permanent results with Kybella treatments.

What are the risks?

The most common side effects of Kybella treatment include temporary swelling, pain, bruising, redness, numbness, bleeding problems, and hard lumps of the injection sites. Generally, these side effects are not serious and resolve within a week – any discomfort can be treated with an ice pack. More serious but rare side effects may include difficulty swallowing and nerve injury to the jaw. However, if administered by our expert injector, these risks are significantly reduced. Dr. Capek will inform you about all the risks and complications of this FDA-approved treatment and develop an appropriate treatment plan before your treatment sessions.

Schedule a Consultation

Say hello to Kybella and goodbye to your double chin with just a few quick treatment sessions at Dr. Capek’s office. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.