Kybella®
What Is Kybella®?
This is a prescription medicine used in adults to reduce submental fullness. It is a simple, effective method that uses small injections of the product to treat the area. It is FDA-approved, minimally invasive, and only requires a few sessions to see results as the double chin “melts away”, but leaves the rest of the face and décolletage unaffected. It’s becoming more and more popular, as it’s safe, effective, and permanent.
Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired aesthetic goal.
How Does This Treatment Work?
Kybella® treatment utilizes an ingredient called deoxycholic acid. This is a molecule that is produced naturally in the body that aids in breaking down and absorbing dietary fat. It’s usually found in the gut, but in this case, it’s injected into the double chin, where it works the same way.
This treatment either destroys fat cells or shrinks them down. The fat cells that are destroyed leave the body over time through natural processes, and the cells that have shrunk release the fat they were storing. Amazingly, once fat cells are gone, they’re gone for good. That means they can no longer accumulate or store fat, so patients don’t need to worry about coming in for retreatment to maintain their new contoured chin.
Patients can rest easy knowing that deoxycholic acid is naturally produced in the body and no foreign substances are being injected into their bodies. Most bodies are incredibly tolerant of treatment, making it one of the safest ways to eliminate a double chin available.
What Should I Tell My Medical Provider Before Treatment?
Submental fullness is that pocket of fat under your chin commonly referred to as a “double chin”. It can be one of the most difficult areas to eliminate fat on the entire body, as exercise doesn’t generally target it.
- Have had or plan to have surgery on your face, neck, or chin
- Have had cosmetic treatments on your face, neck, or chin
- Have had or have medical conditions in or near the neck area
- Have had or have trouble swallowing
- Have bleeding problems
- Are taking any medications, especially blood thinners
