Now more than ever before, we have a number of options to treat an unwanted aged appearing neck. There are now several minimally invasive procedures that can replace surgical correction in the right individual. One of the newest possibilities is using injections of Kybella®.
Dr. Krochmal and I are very excited about Kybella®, a new FDA-approved injectable that targets the double chin area to dissolve fat. Many of our patients (both men and women) have experienced Kybella® for themselves and the results have proven quite successful. For those who qualify and prefer a non-surgical approach to minimizing their double chin, Kybella® seems to be the perfect solution.
The active ingredient in Kybella® is something called deoxycholic acid, which is naturally found in the body and aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When Kybella® is injected into the fat under the chin, it causes the destruction of the fat cells (they actually rupture or burst). Once destroyed, the lymphatic system excretes the byproducts of the fat cells from the body, and they can never come back.
Kybella® treatments are performed in the comfort of our office suites, and patients typically see their desired results after 1-3 treatments. Once the results are achieved, repeat treatments are unnecessary as the fat will not return. Each treatment lasts a few minutes with minimal discomfort. If the patient wishes, a topical numbing cream can be used.
From our experience, Kybella® is quite effective for the double chin area, making it an excellent non-surgical option to liposuction. Patients are quite pleased with the results and many have commented that they feel younger, thinner and more attractive after Kybella®.
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Kybella®. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our office to learn more about Kybella® and to determine if it’s right for you.
Which areas of the body can be treated with Kybella®?
Currently, Kybella® has only been FDA-approved for use on double chins. Because Kybella® has shown to be most effective on small sections of fat, it’s not an option for treating larger areas of the body like love handles, muffin tops, or bra fat. However, the FDA is in the process of researching Kybella®’s benefits for these areas, as well as others where fat tends to accumulate.
Does Kybella® hurt?
This is a difficult question, as pain tolerance varies from patient to patient. Most of our patients have found the pain to be minimal. There may be some swelling and pain at the injection site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice.
How long do the results last?
Here’s the great news! Once Kybella® destroys fat cells, they are gone forever. The results from the injections are permanent. In the clinical trials used by the FDA, even patients who experienced weight gain after receiving Kybella® didn’t see the return of their double chins (although we don’t recommend testing this!)
What are the side effects of Kybella®?
The most common side effects include swelling, bruising and discomfort following the procedure. In Kybella®’s clinical trials, most people described feeling “tender” following the treatment. As mentioned previously, ice and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can be used to reduce any pain and swelling.
Who is the best candidate for Kybella®?
The best candidates for Kybella® are those who have moderate amounts of fat under the chin, good skin quality with minimal laxity, and are willing and able to follow post-treatment recommendations.
These are the individuals who will see the best results with Kybella®.
Don’t forget that treating your neck starts with an examination and that if you are not a candidate for Kybella® we have other treatments that may suit your particular neck issue more effectively. Call us today to set your appointment to see if you are a candidate.
