Facial Plastic Surgery
KYBELLA® is a wonderful non-surgical option for those patients bothered by a double chin – or excess fat under the chin. Some plastic surgeons refer to this as excess submental (‘below the chin’) fat. Studies have shown that upwards of 70-80% of patients with a double chin deformity are bothered enough by the appearance to seek out treatment. Traditionally, this area of excess fat under the chin has been treated surgically using liposuction technique to remove the fat. In 2015, the FDA-approved KYBELLA® as a great non-surgical, office-based, injectable treatment to correct the double chin deformity from excess submental fat. Since that time, it has become a widely popular option for many patients looking to have a more defined neckline.
KYBELLA® is a solution of deoxycholic acid that essentially disrupts or destroys fat cells, or adipocytes, after it is injected into the tissue. The deoxycholic acid within the KYBELLA® solution is very similar to the native deoxycholic acid already in our bodies – which is one of the reasons why KYBELLA® is considered so safe.
KYBELLA® Candidates
The best way to determine whether or not you are considered a good candidate for KYBELLA® treatment is to undergo a personalized examination by Dr. Hilinski, who is considered an expert in this particular treatment. This would include close inspection of the fatty tissue under the chin to make sure that KYBELLA® is a good choice to help provide a nice cosmetic improvement. Dr. Hilinski offers complimentary consultations for those patients considering KYBELLA® treatment for a double chin deformity. If Dr. Hilinski decides you are a good candidate for KYBELLA®, your first treatment can actually be done that same day!
KYBELLA® Summary Video
The KYBELA® Treatment
KYBELLA® treatment of submental fullness, or a double chin, is typically done during a 15 minute office-based procedure. After confirming the exact location of where KYBELLA® is going to be placed under your chin, the actual injection is performed.
In most patients, a series of KYBELLA® injections are recommended in order to achieve optimal cosmetic improvement. Although some patients see a notable difference after the first KYBELLA® injection, most patients need 2-4 KYBELLA® treatments to see more significant change. Treatment sessions are spaced apart 6-8 weeks to allow your body an opportunity to fully respond to the prior KYBELLA® injection.
KYBELLA® Side Effects
Essentially all patients undergoing KYBELLA® treatment for submental fat excess will experience some type of reaction to the injection. In fact, these reactions are a direct result of the deoxycholic acid beginning to work on breaking down the fat cells.
Common side effects include:
- Injection site pain and/or a burning sensation
- Swelling and inflammation
- Bruising and discoloration
- Induration (a feeling of hardness)
In nearly all cases, these side effects will resolve on their own within 4-6 weeks of a KYBELLA® injection.
There are some side effects of KYBELLA® that are less common. These include injury to the nerve that provides movement around the mouth (paresis or paralysis) and trouble swallowing (dysphagia). Fortunately, these reactions are quite rare and have also been shown to resolve over a period of time.
Are KYBELLA® Results Permanent?
Results achieved from KYBELLA® are, indeed, considered permanent. That is because everyone is born with as many fat cells as they are going to have in a lifetime. When a fat cell is disrupted, for instance, by KYBELLA®, it is not capable of regenerating. The remaining fat cells in the adjacent area may enlarge if one gains weight after the KYBELLA® treatments are completed. But the submental fat cells destroyed by KYBELLA® are gone for good.
KYBELLA® Photo Examples
If you are concerned about excess fat under the chin, or a double chin deformity, and looking for a non-surgical treatment option – contact Dr. Hilinski’s office today to schedule a personalized appointment for KYBELLA®.
Do you have additional questions?
Visit our frequently asked questions or contact our office to schedule a consultation.
FAQs Contact Us
Dr. John Hilinski has either authored or reviewed and approved this content.