Learn More About Kybella
What is Kybella®?
Kybella® is designed specifically for the “double chin” also known as the submental region that lies beneath the chin
Kybella® is an injectable medication made from deoxycholic acid
Deoxycholic acid works by dissolving fat cells where it is injected into the body
Kybella® was approved by the FDA in April 2015. Prior to its approval, there were two clinical trials that included over 1,000 participants
What area does Kybella® treat and how does it work?
Kybella® was designed for the submental region or the “double chin” area
This region is difficult to treat and has a tremendous effect on appearance
It is often resistant to exercise and diet changes, and problems in the area are usually a direct result of genetics and age
Kybella® is a non-surgical alternative to combat issues in the submental region with permanent results
Kybella’s main ingredient, deoxycholic acid, dissolves subcutaneous fat
Deoxycholic acid attacks the cell membrane (protective layer of the cell) and causes lysis (cell death)
The human body naturally produces and uses deoxycholic acid
Our bodies use deoxycholic acid in the intestines for digestion, more specifically for the breakdown and absorption of fats
Once Kybella® has dissolved specific fat cells, there is no regeneration of the cells
These subcutaneous fat cells have been permanently dissolved
The “double chin” will not reappear
This process of facial contouring is a long-term solution and alternative to surgical procedures
Treatment was previously only possible through liposuction or other surgical treatments
Who makes Kybella®?
Kybella® is made by Kythera Pharmaceuticals
Is Kybella® safe?
As with any medication, there are always risks and side effects
Since Kybella is a permanent solution, it requires careful consideration by a professional
Not all patients are good candidates.
Am I a good candidate?
A good candidate has moderate to severe subcutaneous fat in the submental region
You may NOT be a good candidate if you have a prior history of scarring, skin laxity (looseness), dysphagia, facial neuropraxia, thyromegaly, cervical lymphadenopathy, pronounced submandibular glands, or prominent platysmal bands
Please discuss these conditions prior to treatment with your health care provider
Is it painful?
Pre-treatment with oral analgesics and topical or injectable anesthetics, such as lidocaine, is highly recommended
A cold press prior to and following injections is also recommended to minimize discomfort
How much will I need?
The average dose is between 2 - 3 vials per treatment
Most patients will require 2 - 3 treatments with 6 – 8 week intervals
How long does the procedure take?
Treatment generally takes 20 to 30 minutes
What can I expect during the procedure?
A marking pencil will be used to map out the anatomy of your submental region. An adhesive marking grid will be attached to the treatment area
Dots are indicated in the grid to ensure proper distancing of injections
Most patients can expect around 20 painless injections under the chin
How long will the results last?
Kybella® results are permanent
Once a fat cell is destroyed it cannot regenerate, therefore it cannot store or accumulate fat in the area again
If you weigh the costs over time, it ends up being less expensive than Botox® or Juvéderm® treatments because you never have to repeat future injections
Once the fat cells are dissolved, they will not return
How much downtime will I need?
Patients should expect bruising and some swelling after the procedure
A week of downtime is recommended; however, some require more time than others
Do NOT have injections before a big event
Most patients only experience mild swelling however 1% of patients will experience severe swelling described as a “bull frog” appearance
How often are injections repeated?
Most patients go through a course of about 2 - 4 treatment cycles spaced around 6 - 8 weeks apart
Once the desired results are achieved, there is NO need for future injections
The cells do NOT regenerate, therefore more injections should NOT be necessary unless further treatment is desired and/or recommended for enhanced contouring
What are the side effects?
Side effects might include, but are not limited to, soreness at the injection sites, bruising, bleeding, swelling, pain, numbness, erythema, and induration
Are there any contraindicated medications?
Yes, do NOT use Kybella® while using antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications
Consult your primary physician to hold these medications at least 7 days prior to injections
Do NOT stop any medications without your physician’s consent
What can I do to reduce the risk of bruising?
Avoid fish oil, flax seed oil, multivitamins, NSAIDs (including Ibuprofen), and alcohol at least 3 days before injections
Consult with your physician about stopping aspirin, Coumadin, or other blood-thinning medications, as these medications increase the risks of bruising and should be stopped at least 7 days prior to your injections
An over-the-counter remedy that help reduce bruising is Bromelain, which is a substance found in pineapples and helps prevent bruising. Some find it beneficial to eat pineapple or drink pineapple juice 2 days before receiving injections.
What are my instructions following Kybella injections?
Following treatment, you can use cold compresses on the skin to minimize swelling
Direct skin contact with ice should be avoided
Reduce your UV exposure, and wear SPF 30 or higher sunscreen for at least a week following treatments
Report any concerns or questions immediately.
What are the concerns with using Kybella®?
Kybella is a permanent solution
Although side effects are rare, they are possible
Please discuss all concerns with your health care provider
How much does Kybella cost?
Kybella is sold by the vial approximately $700/vial
Each Kybella treatment session may require 1-3 vials, so fees may be $700-$2100 per session
Most patients will spend approximately $3000 for complete resolution of submental fat
This may seem costly, but surgery is more expensive, requires an operating room and has more downtime