While diet and exercise work well to reduce and eliminate excess fat, it’s nearly impossible for the fat loss to be targeted, especially if you’re looking to address a full or double chin. That’s where Kybella® comes in. With a few injections, you can achieve a slimmer, more defined jawline and chin in only a matter of weeks to months, without surgery.
What is Kybella?
Kybella is a non-surgical treatment that is used to specifically address moderate to severe amounts of excess fat below the chin (also known as submental or submandibular fat). It’s made up of a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, which breaks down fat cells causing the body to absorb them. The body makes it naturally, but with injections of deoxycholic acid, we can target specific areas.
Patients often choose Kybella because it has a lower recovery time and is much less invasive than surgery.
Candidates for Kybella
Ideal candidates for Kybella should meet the following criteria:
- Be in generally good health
Have realistic expectations
Want to reduce excess fat in the area under the chin
Have good skin elasticity
How Does Kybella Work?
When injected into the fat below the skin, Kybella breaks down and destroys fat cells in that area. Once the fat is broken down, the body naturally eliminates it. And once the fat cells are completely gone, they will not grow back.
Kybella Treatment
Before the procedure, we’ll administer a topical numbing agent to the treatment area. From there, we’ll start the injection process. Typically, 20-50 injections are needed for optimal results. Multiple treatment sessions may also be needed. You can have up to six treatment sessions, spaced at least a month apart.
Recovery and Results
After Kybella treatment, you can typically go back to most of your normal routine immediately. You’ll likely notice some redness, bruising, and mild to moderate swelling, but that will diminish in the days after treatment. You can apply cool compresses and elevate your head to ease swelling and bruising. Risks of the procedure include unevenness which can be addressed with future treatment rounds, and potential nerve irritation which may lead to short to moderate term effects around the jawline and lower face.
You will want to avoid strenuous activity and extreme heat for at least 24 hours. You’ll also want to avoid alcohol for at least three days after treatment.
Results usually take 6-8 weeks to show up, but it can take as long as 12 to 16 weeks to see the maximum results. You’ll notice your skin start to tighten and the fat slowly diminish as you heal and the deoxycholic acid goes to work. Skin tightening is not the main effect of the treatment and does not happen for everyone, so be aware that your own skin laxity should be evaluated before treatment since loss of fat can leave looser skin in some people.
Schedule A Consultation
Welcome a more defined jawline with Kybella at Art of Dermatology at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center in New York City. With her years of experience, Dr. Krant can give you the beautiful results you’re looking for. Take the first step and schedule a consultation today. Call our NYC office at 212 488 5599 or fill out our online contact form.