If there is one buzzword we’ve been hearing around our office this year, Kybella is definitely it. While many patients come to us searching for a non-invasive option to melt excess submental fat (under chin fat), most of them are non familiar with this relatively new injectable called Kybella. So, what exactly is Kybella and how does it work? We’re here to bring you the facts.
Kybella, or keoxycholic acid, is a manmade form of a substance that your body actually prduces naturally to help absorb excess fats.When injected into specific areas of the body, Kybella helps to melt away extra fat, particularly under the chin area, slowly and with little to no downtime after each procedure.
When receiving a Kybella injection, your plastic surgeon will typically numb the area and place a grid under the chin where he or she plans to inject the substance. The entire procedure takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. Once the doctor is finished injecting Kybella, he or she will place an ice pack under the chin and the patient is free to go about their day. Patients may experience mild pain, swelling or bruising around the injection area, but most say it is very manageable pain. Most doctors recommend that patients refrain from any rigorous exercises for a few days. Patients should also try not to move the area very much post-procedure.
Over the course of 1-2 months, each injection slowly melts away excess fat. Many patients see results after just 2-4 sessions, but typically, they will receive a total of 5-6 Kybella treatments for maximum results.
The procedure has gained notoriety over the past year after Khloe Kardashian became a spokesperson for the product. The “Live Chin Up” Kybella campaign encourages women not to let things that bother them get in the way of living a beautiful life. We couldn’t agree more!
If you would like to discuss Kybella or other options for melting excess submental fat, give us a call to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kybella is a manmade form of deoxycholic acid, a substance naturally produced by the body to help absorb fats. When injected into targeted areas, especially under the chin, it helps to melt away excess fat gradually with minimal downtime.
During a Kybella session, the doctor numbs the treatment area and uses a grid to guide injections under the chin. The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes, followed by applying an ice pack. Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately but should avoid strenuous exercise and excessive movement of the area for a few days.
Most patients begin to see results after 2-4 sessions, but for optimal fat reduction, a total of 5-6 treatments spaced over 1-2 months is usually recommended.
Patients may experience mild pain, swelling, or bruising around the injection site, but these effects are generally manageable. The doctor will provide guidance on post-treatment care to minimize discomfort and promote healing.
Yes, Kybella offers a non-invasive option to reduce submental fat without surgery. It uses injections to dissolve fat cells gradually, avoiding the need for more invasive procedures like liposuction.
Individuals with excess fat under the chin who prefer a non-surgical approach are good candidates for Kybella. A consultation with a plastic surgeon can determine if Kybella is suitable based on individual anatomy and goals.
Kybella gained widespread attention after Khloe Kardashian became a spokesperson for the product, promoting the "Live Chin Up" campaign that encourages confidence and embracing beauty without letting concerns hold you back.
