Kybella

WHAT IS KYBELLA?

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that targets submental fullness or a “double chin.” It provides a non-surgical solution for individuals seeking a more defined jawline and a slimmer neck profile.

The main ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a natural substance that breaks down and absorbs dietary fat. When injected into the targeted area, Kybella destroys fat cells permanently, eliminating excess fat beneath the chin.

The treatment involves precise injections tailored to each person’s anatomy, and the number of sessions required varies depending on the amount of fat and desired outcomes.

Kybella offers a safe and effective non-surgical alternative, but consulting with a qualified medical professional is essential to determine its suitability based on individual circumstances and goals.

Discover the transformative power of Kybella at White Pearl Medical Spa. Our expert team offers personalized treatments to target and reduce stubborn submental fat for a more defined and youthful-looking chin.

What Areas Can Be Treated with Kybella?

Kybella treatment is specifically approved by the FDA for targeting subcutaneous fat in the submental region, commonly referred to as the “double chin” area.

How Does Kybella Work?

Kybella works through the use of its primary ingredient, deoxycholic acid. This naturally occurring molecule in the body aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.

When Kybella is injected into the targeted area, it permanently destroys fat cells, reducing submental fullness or a “double chin.”

During the treatment, precise injections of Kybella are administered to the submental area, customized to the patient’s unique anatomy. The number of sessions required may vary depending on the individual and their desired results.

After the injections, Kybella starts to disrupt the integrity of the fat cell membranes. This triggers a process known as Adipocytolysis, causing the fat cells to break down and be naturally eliminated from the body over time.

Once the fat cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate, resulting in a permanent fat reduction in the treated area.

Over several weeks to months, patients will gradually notice a more sculpted and defined chin and neck area over several weeks to months as the body processes and remove the treated fat cells.

It is important to consult our qualified medical professionals to determine if Kybella is the right treatment option for individual circumstances and goals.

What to Expect During and After the Kybella Treatment?

To start, the area under your chin will be cleansed. The injection areas beneath the chin and along the jawline will be marked using a pen. While the injections may cause mild discomfort, a local anesthetic will ensure comfort.

It is normal to experience soreness around the injection sites. Swelling and bruising are common and should gradually improve within approximately three days, though they may persist for a few weeks.

Benefits of Kybella:

• Eliminates fat cells by injecting beneath the chin
• Non-surgical procedure completed in about 15-30 minutes at the office
• Customized treatment to achieve your specific goals
• Typically, it does not require additional treatments once desired aesthetic is achieved
• Minimal to no downtime is required
• No post-procedural compression garment needed

Who Should not Receive Kybella?

Individuals who meet the following criteria should refrain from receiving Kybella.

• If you have an infection in the treatment area
• If you have had or plan to have surgery on your face, neck, or chin
• If you have had cosmetic treatments on your face, neck, or chin
• If you have medical conditions in or near the neck area
• If you have trouble swallowing
• If you have bleeding problems
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (unknown if Kybella® will harm the unborn baby)
• If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed (unknown if Kybella® passes into breast milk)
• Inform us about all your medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• Especially inform us if you take medication that prevents blood clotting (antiplatelet or anticoagulant medicine)

What are the Potential Side Effects?

Side effects of Kybella range from mild to severe, but they are generally temporary and self-resolving.

• Common mild side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, numbness, pain, and hardness in the injected areas.
• Severe side effects are rare and can be minimized by receiving injections from trained and licensed professionals.
• Swallowing difficulties related to Kybella are usually not nerve-related but may be due to swelling or pain in the lower chin area.

Discuss any concerns about Kybella’s side effects with our healthcare provider before treatment. It is important to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions and medications, as they may impact healing and the likelihood of side effects.

Downtime and Recovery after Kybella Treatment

• After Kybella injections, you can typically resume work or daily activities immediately.
• However, expect mild to moderate swelling and tenderness, usually lasting less than 72 hours.
• Some individuals take the rest of the day off due to noticeable side effects.
• To manage these effects, you can apply ice packs to the area.
• When using ice packs, limit each session to 20 minutes and alternate with 20-minute breaks within the first 24 hours after treatment. Use as needed after that.
• Sleeping face up with a slightly elevated head can help minimize swelling.
• Avoid touching the treated area, especially with firm pressure or massage, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• For 3-5 days following the procedure, avoid sweating, including intense exercise and sun and heat exposure.
• It is advisable to schedule Kybella injections at least 2 weeks before major events to allow swelling and tenderness to subside.