Unwanted submental fat, colloquially known as the “double chin,” can be stubborn and hard to get rid of. Kybella is an FDA-approved, non-invasive solution that targets and eliminates this specific fat, offering a refined chin profile without the need for surgery.
Dr. Darren M. Smith, a board-certified specialist, provides top-notch Kybella treatments, guaranteeing excellent results through precise injections and personalized care, ensuring a safe, comfortable journey to a sculpted chin and jawline.
What Is Kybella?
Kybella, also known by its generic name Deoxycholic Acid, is an injectable treatment used for reducing submental fat, or fat under the chin.
It contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid as its active ingredient. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule found in the human body that plays a crucial role in breaking down and absorbing dietary fat.
In 2015, Kybella became the first FDA-approved injectable treatment for improving the appearance of submental fullness (double chin) in adults.
How Kybella Targets and Eliminates Fat
Kybella’s active ingredient is designed to mimic the body’s natural fat-absorption process. Deoxycholic acid is a bile acid naturally produced by your body to help absorb fat. Upon injection into the chin’s subcutaneous fat, it instigates the destruction of fat cells by dissolving their cell membrane.
These cells, once eradicated, are incapable of storing or accumulating fat ever again, differentiating Kybella from procedures like liposuction, which merely removes but doesn’t destroy the cells.
The body then naturally processes and clears out the cellular remnants, ensuring a targeted and lasting fat reduction in the treated areas.
Benefits of Kybella Treatment
The primary benefit of Kybella is permanently reducing fat underneath the chin area to improve your facial profile without surgery.
Some of the benefits include:
- Non-invasive procedure with no incisions or anesthesia required
- No downtime. You can return to normal activities immediately
- More affordable than surgical options
- Improves the appearance of submental fullness and chin contour
- Can treat small areas precisely
- Permanently destroys fat cells in treated areas
Kybella is best suited for patients with mild to moderate submental fat. It can help achieve a more youthful, toned appearance without the risks or extended recovery of surgery.
Where Can Kybella Be Injected?
Kybella injections are specifically designed for use in the submental area, which is the area beneath the chin. It is not intended for use in other areas of the body or for the treatment of excessive fat deposits elsewhere.
However, some practitioners also frequently use Kybella off-label to reduce small fat pockets in other areas of the face. Common off-label treatment areas include the cheeks and jowls.
The use of Kybella outside of the submental area is considered off-label and currently not approved by the FDA.
Dr. Smith will determine if you are a good candidate for Kybella based on your goals, areas of concern, and the amount of submental fat present.
The Kybella Procedure: What To Expect
Preparation and Marking the Treatment Area
Kybella treatments involve a series of injections under the chin, where Dr. Smith will mark the treatment area. A topical numbing cream or injected local anesthetic is first applied to minimize discomfort.
Administering the Kybella Injections
The Kybella itself is then injected using small needles into the fat layer beneath the skin. The injections are administered at multiple points within the treatment area. Dr. Smith will use the appropriate amount of Kybella based on the size of the area being treated.
Injection Technique
To work properly, Kybella must be injected perpendicularly and not at an angle. Injecting Kybella horizontally under the skin can cause skin ulcerations. When injected correctly into the fat layer, patients normally feel a tingling or burning sensation at the injection sites.
Post-Injection Care and Immediate Effects
After the injections, ice packs are applied to help reduce swelling. Some temporary swelling, bruising, numbness, and areas of hardness under the skin are common.
What Is the Recommended Post-Treatment Care For Kybella?
Achieving the best results with Kybella requires more than just the treatment itself. Proper aftercare is key to minimize potential side effects and maximize outcomes.
Here’s a handy guide to ensure you’re taking the right steps post-treatment:
- Handling the Treatment Area: For the initial 3-5 days post-treatment, it’s best to let the area heal. This means refraining from touching, pressing, or massaging the treated region. Also, hold off on facials, peels, and other skin treatments or procedures during this period.
- Managing Discomfort: Should you feel any pain or discomfort, opt for an over-the-counter acetaminophen, like Tylenol. Steer clear of NSAIDs, as these can increase the risk of bruising.
- Optimal Sleeping Position: Consider sleeping on your back with your head slightly raised. This posture can assist in reducing swelling during the initial days after the treatment.
- Limit Certain Activities: For about 3-5 days post-treatment, it’s wise to avoid intense physical activities and exposure to direct sun or heat to prevent added swelling.
- Mind Your Supplements: Certain supplements, such as vitamin E, fish oil, and garlic, can thin the blood. It’s best to avoid these around the treatment time.
Additional Recommendations:
- Cold Compress Application: For the first two days, intermittently apply a cold compress—20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off. This helps in alleviating swelling and discomfort.
- Dietary Precautions: A day before and after your treatment, limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine. They can cause dehydration, increasing the risk of swelling and bruising. Additionally, maintain a balanced diet and avoid high-salt foods that can exacerbate swelling.
- Reach Out with Concerns: Whenever in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Smith. He’s there to help and guide you through the recovery process.
While swelling and bruising are common post-treatment occurrences with Kybella, they’re typically short-lived. Most individuals observe noticeable improvements within 4-6 weeks of their session.
How Often Should You Schedule Kybella Treatments?
Typically, Kybella sessions are recommended every 4-6 weeks. This spacing allows your body ample time to naturally process the treated fat cells and ensures any post-treatment effects, like swelling or bruising, have time to subside.
Kybella’s effectiveness shines through with multiple sessions. A substantial 59% of patients in clinical studies underwent six treatments, each a month apart. However, based on individual needs, most patients achieve their desired outcome in 3–5 sessions.
During your consultation, Dr. Smith will provide guidance on what’s best for your individual needs.
Some factors that influence the number of Kybella sessions needed include:
- Amount of submental fat present
- Desire for mild versus moderate correction
- Extent of the treatment area, such as just under the chin versus jowls
- Gender, as men may need more due to increased fat cell size
- Metabolism and age
Follow Dr. Smith’s recommendation on how many Kybella sessions you’ll need for your desired outcome. Significant improvements are usually visible within 2 months following your final session.
What Is the Healing Timeline for Kybella?
| Time Frame | Effects |
| Days 1-3 | After treatment, it’s not uncommon to experience some swelling, bruising, or tenderness. Some patients also report temporary discomfort when swallowing or moving their jaw. |
| Days 4-7 | As the week moves on, the initial effects like swelling and bruising typically begin to lessen. There might still be a mild sensation or tenderness in the treated area. |
| Weeks 2-4 | Around this time, many patients start to notice a difference. The treated area begins to show the benefits of the Kybella sessions. |
| Weeks 6-8 | By now, most patients can see the full effects of their treatments. The chin area should look more sculpted, showcasing the results of the Kybella sessions. |
Kybella is specifically designed to address the fat under the chin and isn’t a general weight-loss solution. If you have broader health or appearance goals, we’re here to chat and provide guidance on the best steps forward.
How Much Does Kybella Cost?
The overall cost largely depends on the number of vials used in each session and the total number of treatment sessions. Please contact our office at 212-633-0627 to receive up to date pricing!
Kybella offers a more budget-friendly and non-invasive approach when compared to liposuction procedures
What Are the Factors That Affect the Cost of Kybella?
- Cost per Vial and Number of Vials per Treatment: The total cost will depend on the number of vials used in each treatment session.
- Number of treatment sessions: Most patients require 3-5 treatment sessions to achieve their desired results.
- Treatment Area: Different patients have varying amounts of submental fat. Naturally, larger areas demand more vials, driving the cost higher.
- Provider Experience: Professionals like board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons, with a wealth of experience and expertise, might have higher rates.
- Location: NYC’s diverse neighborhoods each come with their own heftier price tags. The cost can shift based on the specific location of the clinic.
Is Kybella Covered by Insurance?
Kybella is considered a cosmetic procedure, and standard health insurance policies typically don’t cover such treatments. This means the expense of Kybella treatments will be an out-of-pocket cost for the patient.
While insurance might not offer support, Dr. Smith’s practice often offers financing options or special promotions to help make the procedure more accessible.
Is Kybella Safe?
When injected correctly, Kybella is considered a very safe and effective treatment. However, it is crucial to receive Kybella only from an experienced, licensed provider rather than attempting to self-inject.
Injecting Kybella improperly can result in serious side effects like skin ulcerations, nodules, and tissue necrosis.
Potential side effects may include:
- Swelling, bruising, and sensations of numbness or tingling
- Short-lived hardness or the presence of lumps beneath the skin
- Localized redness and discomfort at the injection sites
- Occasional headaches or neck discomfort
Graver side effects, such as nerve injuries or skin ulcerations, are exceedingly rare when the treatment is overseen by an expert. Prior to the procedure, Dr. Smith will ensure you’re well-informed about all potential risks and complications of using Kybella.
Choosing the Best Kybella Injector in NYC
Kybella sets the standard for non-invasive chin fat reduction. But it’s true potential is unlocked only in the hands of a proficient injector. Choose wisely. Your chosen provider dictates the trajectory of your results.
Why Consider Dr. Darren M. Smith?
- Board Certification: Dr. Smith is not just any plastic surgeon; he’s board-certified, indicating rigorous training and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care.
- Specialized in Injectable Treatments: Beyond his extensive surgical accolades, Dr. Smith specializes in injectable treatments, ensuring precision and proficiency with each Kybella session.
- Personalized Approach: Dr. Smith understands the unique anatomy and aspirations of each patient. Dr. Smith provides individualized plans tailored to each person’s goals and facial features.
To determine if Kybella is the right treatment for you, consider booking a consultation with Dr. Smith. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your goals and receive an expert evaluation.
Get Started Today!
To schedule your consultation with Dr. Smith, you can book online or call us at +1 (212) 633-0627.
