The Ultimate Guide to Kybella: What You Need to Know Before Your Treatment

A double chin can be a real pain in the neck – both literally and figuratively. Despite the best diet and exercise efforts, it seems like that extra layer of chin fat just won’t budge. Thanks to modern cosmetic treatments like Kybella, which is an innovative treatment that has revolutionized the cosmetic industry, providing a safe and effective way to enhance facial contours and create a more defined jawline without surgery.

What Is Kybella?

Kybella is an injectable treatment that uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the fat underneath the chin, Kybella destroys the fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system over time.

During a Kybella treatment session, a series of small injections are made underneath the chin in the targeted area. The required number of injections will be determined by the amount of submental fat treated and the individual’s desired results. Most treatment sessions take around 15-20 minutes to complete.

What To Know Before The Treatment?

Before undergoing Kybella treatment, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some things to know before the Kybella treatment:

• Consultation. Before undergoing Kybella treatment, it is important to schedule a consultation with a qualified provider to determine if an individual is a good candidate for the treatment. The provider will review the medical history, examine the area under the chin, and discuss the goals and expectations to determine if Kybella suits an individual.
• Treatment plan. The provider will work with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan based on the patient’s needs and goals. This will include the needed number of sessions and the number of injections per session.
• Downtime. While Kybella is a minimally invasive treatment, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. It is important to schedule the treatment during downtime, as patients may experience some social downtime.
• Medications. Inform the provider of any medications taken, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, and any supplements being taken. Some medications may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
• Risks and side effects. Kybella has potential risks and side effects like any medical treatment, including swelling, bruising, numbness, and temporary nerve damage. Before treatment, the provider will discuss the potential risks and side effects.
• Cost. The cost of Kybella treatment varies depending on the number of sessions required and the number of injections per session. Discussing the cost of treatment with the provider before beginning treatment is important.

By working with a qualified provider and being aware of the above factors, patients have ensured the safest and most effective treatment experience possible.

Is Kybella Safe?

Kybella is a safe and effective treatment option for individuals who are bothered by the appearance of a double chin but do not want to undergo surgery. The treatment is typically performed in a series of sessions, with most patients requiring two to four treatments to achieve optimal results. The procedure is minimally invasive, and patients can typically resume their normal activities immediately after treatment.

Kybella has been extensively tested in clinical studies, and the treatment is safe and effective for reducing submental fat. However, choosing a qualified provider trained in performing Kybella treatments is important to ensure the safest and most effective treatment experience.

What Happens During The Actual Kybella Procedure?

During a Kybella procedure, the treatment area, typically the area under the chin, will be cleaned and sterilized. To minimize discomfort during the procedure, a topical anesthetic may be applied to the skin, or a local anesthetic may be injected. The Kybella injections will be administered using a small needle, and the number of injections required will depend on the size of the treatment area and the amount of submental fat present.

After administering the injections, the provider will monitor the patient for any immediate side effects, such as swelling or bruising. Patients will receive instructions on caring for the treatment area after the procedure, such as applying ice to minimize swelling and avoiding certain activities. The entire Kybella procedure usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. 

Patients can usually return to normal activities immediately following the procedure, although some swelling and bruising may occur. Kybella treatment typically requires multiple sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve the desired results. The provider will work with patients to develop a customized treatment plan based on their needs and goals.

Who Are Good Candidates For Kybella?

Good candidates for Kybella are individuals who:

• Have excess submental fat, commonly known as a “double chin”
• Have good skin elasticity and do not have excess skin or sagging in the area
• Are generally in good health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the treatment
• Have not had previous surgery or cosmetic treatments in the area
• Are willing to commit to multiple treatment sessions, as Kybella typically requires several treatments to achieve optimal results.

On the other hand, Kybella may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as an active infection in the treatment area or a bleeding disorder. The provider will evaluate the medical history and examine the treatment area to determine if an individual is a good candidate for Kybella. Additionally, depending on their specific needs and goals, some individuals may be better suited for alternative treatments, such as liposuction or a neck lift.

How Soon Do You See Results?

Results from Kybella injections can be seen gradually over time, typically within two to four weeks after each treatment session. However, it may take several treatment sessions to achieve optimal results, depending on the amount of submental fat present. Once the desired results are achieved, additional Kybella treatments are not usually necessary. 

The results of Kybella are typically long-lasting, as the destroyed fat cells are permanently eliminated from the body. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is critical to preventing the remaining fat cells from growing and potentially causing a recurrence of the double chin.

The Bottom Line

Kybella is a game-changing treatment that has helped many individuals achieve their desired facial contouring without invasive surgery. The Aesthetic Retreat offers Kybella, the FDA’s first and only FDA-approved injectable drug for contouring and improving the appearance of double chins and jowls. So say goodbye to that stubborn double chin and hello to a more sculpted, confident you!