Dana Kang, MDKybella is a revolutionary treatment that allows people to get rid of stubborn fat without having to undergo surgery. Kybella is synthetic deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid naturally occurs in our bodies to help us breakdown fat in our foods. Using this same molecule, we can breakdown and destroy unwanted fat in other areas of our bodies.
Kybella is FDA-approved to diminish unwanted fat in the submental, or the space under the chin, area. Many people are bothered by the constant double-chin that seems resistant to exercise and good diet. Kybella is a simple, outpatient procedure that can be used to improve the contouring of the chin/neck area.
The procedure is very simple. Kybella is injected in multiple areas throughout the submental area where we want the fat to be destroyed. Generally, people will need about 2-4 treatment sessions, one month apart, to achieve optimal results. The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes. When I inject Kybella, I use some ice to help dull the needle prick sensation. As the medication is injected, there is a burning sensation that will slowly build with each injection. Ice packs are applied right after the procedure which helps to lessen this burning sensation.
Individual results may varyThere are several things to expect after the treatment. People will generally have about 1-2 weeks of swelling in the submental area. The amount of swelling will vary from person to person but in general, the more swelling there is, we expect better results. There can be temporary numbness in the area injected as well as bruising. If these side effects occur, they generally resolve within 2 weeks.
If you have other areas of stubborn fat, Kybella can be used there as well. Kybella has been administered in the sagging jowl areas of the face, love handles, stomach, inner thighs, underarms, and the upper sides of the back (bra bulge) with varying results. Each person should be evaluated by their doctor to determine whether Kybella is right for them.
Results are considered permanent. However, it’s important to understand that aging continues to happen where new fat cells can be made as well as when weight again occurs.
Studies are showing that more and more men are interested in and doing cosmetic procedures. In our office, Kybella seems to be the most popular cosmetic procedure for men after Botox. Given the simplicity of the treatment and the minimal downtime, Kybella is an attractive option that targets areas that seem to be areas of concern for men, namely the submental area as well as love handles. Even with consistent exercise and good diet, these areas can be stubborn and sometimes, treatment for these areas are the only option to improve them.