Excess fat beneath the chin—also known as submental fullness—can be a source of frustration for many. Whether caused by genetics, weight gain, or aging, the presence of a double chin can often feel resistant to diet and exercise.
Kybella® has emerged as a non-surgical solution for targeting and reducing this stubborn fat, offering a more defined and contoured jawline. However, before jumping into treatment, it is important to understand the process of Kybella® and what to expect at every stage of your journey.
Continue reading to find out more about how Kybella® works and the steps involved.
What is Kybella®?
Kybella® is an FDA-approved, non-surgical injectable treatment designed to eliminate fat cells under the chin. The main component of Kybella® is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
When injected into the submental area, deoxycholic acid destroys fat cells, which are then metabolized and eliminated by the body. The best part? Once these fat cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate, meaning that the results of Kybella® are long-lasting, provided that you maintain a stable weight.
Unlike traditional fat reduction surgeries like liposuction, Kybella® offers a minimally invasive option with little downtime and a natural-looking outcome.
Steps in the Kybella® Treatment Process
Before embarking on your Kybella® journey, it is helpful to understand the treatment steps so you can be prepared and confident going into your sessions:
Step 1: Consultation with a Provider
The first step in your Kybella® treatment is a consultation with a qualified provider or aesthetic specialist. During this session, our injector will assess your medical history, overall health, and the degree of submental fat you wish to treat. This is also the time to discuss your aesthetic goals, as this will determine the number of Kybella® sessions you may need.
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
Once the consultation is complete, our provider will create a tailored treatment plan based on your unique needs. The plan will take into account factors such as the amount of fat present, your skin’s elasticity, and your desired results. While some patients may only require two to three treatment sessions, others may need up to six sessions spaced at least one month apart to achieve their goals.
Step 3: Preparing for the Procedure
On the day of your Kybella® treatment, you’ll be asked to arrive with a clean face, free of makeup or lotions. Our injector will mark the injection sites beneath your chin and administer a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure. This step guarantees that you are comfortable and ready for the series of small injections to come.
Step 4: Injection Process
Once you are prepped, the injector will begin injecting Kybella® into the marked areas. Typically, each session involves multiple small injections (between 20 and 50), depending on the amount of fat in the area and the size of the treatment area. The entire process takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
While the injection process itself is relatively quick, you may experience a warm or tingling sensation as the deoxycholic acid begins to break down the fat cells.
Step 5: Post-Treatment Monitoring
After the injections are complete, our provider will monitor you for a short period to make sure you don’t experience any adverse reactions. Following this, you’ll be provided with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.
Effects of Kybella®—What to Expect
Kybella® is not a magic wand that provides instant results. Understanding the effects and the timeline is key to managing expectations and maximizing the benefits of the treatment:
- Gradual Reduction of Fat. One of the most important aspects of Kybella® is that the reduction in fat occurs gradually. While some patients may notice changes as early as four weeks after their first treatment, the full effects usually become visible two to three months after the last session. This gradual fat loss allows for a natural-looking transformation, with results that mimic a gradual weight loss rather than sudden changes.
- Tightening and Contouring. In addition to eliminating fat, Kybella® can subtly tighten the skin under the chin, leading to a more youthful and contoured appearance. Although Kybella® is not specifically a skin-tightening treatment, many patients report an improvement in the skin’s firmness in the treated area.
- Long-Lasting Results. Once Kybella® has destroyed the fat cells, they do not regenerate. This means the results of your Kybella® treatment are permanent, provided you maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. However, significant weight fluctuations could lead to the development of new fat cells in the area.
- Possible Side Effects. While Kybella® is generally well-tolerated, you may experience temporary side effects such as swelling, bruising, or numbness around the injection site. These effects typically subside within a few days to weeks following the injectable treatment. Our provider will discuss these possibilities with you before your first session.
Aftercare Tips for Optimal Results
Proper aftercare is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome from your Kybella® treatment. Following these guidelines can enhance your results and guarantee a smooth recovery process:
- Apply Ice Packs. Swelling is a common side effect after Kybella® injections, but applying ice packs to the treated area can help reduce this swelling. Be sure to wrap the ice in a cloth or towel to prevent direct contact with the skin and avoid frostbite.
- Stay Hydrated. Drinking plenty of water after your treatment can aid the body’s natural healing process and help with the elimination of the fat cells broken down by the Kybella® injections. Hydration is key to optimal recovery.
- Avoid Vigorous Exercise. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 48 hours post-treatment, as it can exacerbate swelling and discomfort. Light activities like walking are fine, but be sure to take it easy during the initial recovery period.
- Sleep Elevated. To minimize swelling, it is best to sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights following your treatment. Use extra pillows to prop yourself up, which can also help reduce any discomfort.
- Avoid Touching or Massaging the Treated Area. Refrain from touching, massaging, or applying pressure to the treated area in the days following your injections. This can disrupt the healing process and potentially affect your results.
- Follow Up with Our Provider. Our provider will likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and determine if additional treatment sessions are necessary. Be sure to attend these appointments and communicate any concerns or questions you may have.
Skipping aftercare instructions or failing to follow them properly can result in complications or suboptimal results. Neglecting aftercare could lead to increased swelling, prolonged discomfort, or uneven fat reduction. To get the most out of your Kybella® treatment, it’s essential to prioritize post-treatment care.
Discover a More Defined You with Kybella®
At For A New You in Holliston, MA, we are dedicated to helping you achieve the aesthetic results you desire through personalized, effective treatments like Kybella®. If you are ready to say goodbye to stubborn chin fat and discover a more defined jawline, book a consultation with our experienced team today.
We’ll guide you through the process and ensure you receive the best care, from consultation to aftercare, for optimal results!
