Everything you ever wanted to know about Kybella, the fat-dissolving wonder treatment for under-chin fat
By Laura Jane Brougher, R.N., Aesthetic Nurse and Owner at Gig Harbor Aesthetics
If you are one of the people who have stubborn under-chin fat, regardless of how lean you get, you may be the perfect candidate for a Kybella treatment. Kybella provides a treatment option for patients who are interested in addressing the fat underneath their chin but are unwilling to consider more invasive plastic surgery procedures, such as liposuction.
What is it?
Kybella is the only FDA-approved injectable that effectively destroys fat cells in the treatment area under the chin to improve your profile. Kybella is made of deoxycholic acid, a prescription medicine. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown of fat. When precisely injected into the area of fat beneath the chin, Kybella destroys the fat cells.
Who is a good candidate for Kybella?
Kybella may be right for you if you are bothered by or self-conscious of stubborn fat under the chin. Many people complain that this extra bit of submental chin fat makes them look older or heavier than they are. Kybella is for people who want the fat reduced but do not want to have the surgery. People who have reduced their weight and exercise but still have stubborn fat are good candidates. Kybella is definitely best for people who do not want to have plastic surgery.
What can I expect?
The area under your chin is mapped out, and your injector will usually put a grid marking in the area to be treated. Each tiny dot is injected with a small amount of Kybella. There may be a sting or slight burning sensation. The injections are done in a few minutes; the whole treatment takes about 30 minutes. Your provider will have you ice the area afterward for increased comfort. You can expect swelling in the area for two to three days, and sometimes for more than a week.
How many treatments will I need? How often?
Most people will require a minimum of two treatments, spaced about four to eight weeks apart. Sometimes, two to four treatments are necessary to get to the desired result, which is dependent on how much fat is in the area. If you are planning for a special occasion, make sure you give yourself plenty of time for the results. As with any treatment, an individual’s response and results may vary.
What is the cost?
The cost of Kybella is generally $1,200 to $1,800 per treatment (two vials average), depending on where you live.
The best thing to do is to make an appointment with your trusted skin-care provider to discuss the best plan for treatment and an estimate of the cost.
At Gig Harbor Aesthetics, we like to have a comprehensive discussion on a timeline and budget that best suits your beauty needs. For a consultation on the best plan for you, book an appointment online at GigHarborAesthetics.com or call 253.514.6766.