What is Kybella?

Kybella is an injectable prescription product used to treat submental chin fat, also known as a double chin. Kybella is deoxycholic acid, the same type of substance that is used to break down ingested fats in the human body. Once Kybella is injected, it causes the breakdown and destruction of the fat cells under the chin. Once this process is completed the results are permanent.

Double Chin Causes:

  • Genetics, it may be part of your genetic makeup
  • Aging causes the areas of fat in and around the face and neck to redistribute and pocket in areas that were not noticeable in youth.
  • Weight gain

What Can I Expect During and After Treatment?

Kybella is a short, non-surgical procedure that is generally completed within a 15-30 minute appointment time-frame. The skin is numbed with a topical anesthetic agent and then the product is injected in the skin just under the chin.

Ice is typically used for the injections to further provide comfort before, during and immediately after treatment. We recommend applying ice to the area intermittently throughout the day after treatment. Most patients report some degree of swelling. Significant swelling is usually reported to last approximately 24-48 hours. The skin can feel firm for a few days and patients can experience some slight burning with the distribution of the medication in the treatment area lasting for a few minutes to a few hours. Temporary numbness in the treatment area has been reported. All reported side effects completely resolve and after a few short weeks there is an improvement in the amount of visible fat under the chin.

Most people will require more than one treatment depending on the amount of initial fat in the treatment area, the amount of product used during treatment and individual response. Most people will require 2-3 treatments for their best result, but results can show as soon as 6-8 weeks after the initial treatment. Treatment sessions are at least 4 weeks apart.


*Photos Provided by Mykybella.com

Kybella FAQs

Is Kybella or Submental Liposuction Right for My Double Chin?

Kybella Double Chin Treatment Sacramento, CAKybella and submental liposuction eliminate the stubborn fat under your chin that creates a double chin appearance. These options get rid of the fat using different techniques. Liposuction surgically removes the fat cells through a cannula, while Kybella destroys the fat cells with deoxycholic acid through a series of injections.

The right double chin treatment for you depends on a few factors. Kybella is a non-surgical, in-office treatment that targets submental fat using a form of bile acid that disseminates the fat cells in the submental area. You will need at least two injection sessions of Kybella, which are typically spaced one month apart, and you can choose to have additional sessions for more dramatic results. Kybella recovery takes just a few days as the swelling from the injection subsides.

Submental liposuction is plastic surgery that requires anesthesia or sedation. Small incisions near the ear and chin are made for the cannula to suction away the fat, then closed and covered with a dressing you need to wear during recovery. Liposuction recovery for submental fat takes several weeks, and you will need to wear a dressing and take special care of the area.

Kybella offers a quick and minimally-invasive option for treating the double chin with few risks and complications. Liposuction does carry additional risks but offers more reliable results by surgically removing the fat.

Our board-certified plastic surgeons can help you determine if Kybella or submental liposuction is best for your cosmetic goals during your consultation at our Granite Bay office.

What If I Gain Weight After Kybella Treatments?

Double Chin Reduction Sacramento, CAKybella permanently destroys the fat cells in the submental area creating your double chin, and they are gone for good. However, Kybella doesn’t eliminate every fat cell in the area, and the remaining ones may expand with weight gain. The volume of fat under your chin is much lower than in other areas, and minimal weight gain may not have a visible impact on your results, but it’s best to maintain a steady weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise to avoid an uneven appearance.

How Many Kybella Treatments Do I Need?

The number of Kybella treatments needed to achieve results depends on the individual and the amount of submental fat. Most patients achieve visible results with two to four sessions of Kybella injections, but some may require up to six treatments. These sessions are spaced one to two months apart.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Kybella?

Most people who are unhappy with chin fullness or a double chin and want to avoid a surgical procedure will qualify for Kybella treatments. Candidates need good skin elasticity for Kybella to prevent loose, sagging skin. You must be at least 18 years old and in good overall health with realistic expectations for what we can accomplish with Kybella.

Schedule Your Kybella Consultation in Sacramento

If you are unhappy with your double chin, contact The Plastic Surgery Center in Granite Bay to schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons and see if Kybella is right for you.