Kybella is a popular cosmetic treatment for reducing excess fat under the chin, commonly referred to as a “double chin.” If you’re considering this non-invasive injectable, understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help you prepare and feel confident in your decision.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, from the initial consultation to the recovery phase and results, so you know exactly what to expect during Kybella treatment.
TLDR – Quick Guide
- What is Kybella? A non-surgical injectable treatment designed to reduce submental fat (double chin).
- Consultation: Initial consultation with a specialist to determine candidacy and treatment goals.
- Treatment Process: Involves multiple small injections in the targeted area. Each session lasts about 15-20 minutes.
- Number of Sessions: Usually requires 2-4 sessions spaced a month apart for best results.
- Downtime and Side Effects: Minor swelling, bruising, and tenderness for a few days after treatment. No major downtime.
- Results: Noticeable reduction in chin fat after a few weeks; final results are typically seen after a few months.
What is Kybella?
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, Kybella works to dissolve fat cells, which are then gradually eliminated by the body’s natural metabolic processes. This makes Kybella an effective, non-surgical solution for individuals looking to slim their jawline and improve the appearance of their profile.
Initial Consultation: Evaluating Candidacy
Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, it’s essential to have a consultation with a qualified specialist. During this initial meeting, your provider will evaluate the area under your chin, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine whether Kybella is the right treatment for you.
Key points of the consultation:
- Medical history review: Your provider will ask about your health history, allergies, and any medications you’re currently taking.
- Assessment of chin fat: The amount and distribution of submental fat will be examined to determine how many sessions may be needed.
- Setting expectations: Your provider will give you a realistic idea of what kind of results you can expect and how many treatments might be necessary.
The Kybella Treatment Process
Once you’ve been deemed a good candidate for Kybella, the actual treatment process is straightforward and relatively quick. Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect during the procedure.
Step 1: Pre-Treatment Preparation
Before your Kybella treatment, your provider may apply a numbing cream or ice pack to the treatment area to minimize discomfort. While the injections are generally well-tolerated, this step helps ensure that the procedure is as painless as possible.
Step 2: Marking the Treatment Area
Your provider will then use a grid-like stencil to mark the areas under your chin where the Kybella injections will be administered. These marks serve as a guide for accurate placement of the injections and help ensure uniform results.
Step 3: Administering the Injections
Using a fine needle, your provider will inject Kybella into the targeted fat deposits under your chin. The number of injections can vary depending on the amount of fat and the size of the area being treated, but it generally involves 20-50 small injections.
Step 4: Post-Treatment Care
Once the injections are complete, your provider will give you instructions on post-treatment care. You may be advised to apply ice to the area to reduce swelling and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. The entire procedure typically takes only 15-20 minutes, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
How Many Kybella Sessions Will You Need?
The number of Kybella sessions required to achieve optimal results varies from person to person. Most patients need between 2-4 treatment sessions, spaced about a month apart. For those with more substantial fat deposits, up to 6 treatments may be recommended.
During each session, fat cells are broken down and gradually eliminated from the body. Once these cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate, which means that future treatments are generally not needed unless new fat accumulates in the area due to significant weight gain.
Downtime and Recovery After Kybella Treatment
One of the key advantages of Kybella is that it offers minimal downtime compared to surgical options like liposuction. However, there are some side effects and recovery details you should be aware of:
Common Side Effects:
- Swelling: This is the most common side effect and can last for a few days to a week. Swelling indicates that the treatment is working as the body breaks down and absorbs the destroyed fat cells.
- Bruising: Some patients experience mild bruising at the injection sites, which typically resolves within a few days.
- Tenderness: The treated area may feel tender or sore, but this discomfort is usually mild and subsides quickly.
- Numbness: Temporary numbness in the treated area is also common, but it should resolve on its own.
Recovery Tips:
- Apply ice packs to the area intermittently for the first 24 hours to minimize swelling and discomfort.
- Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for at least 48 hours after the treatment.
- Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your specialist to ensure a smooth recovery process.
When Will You See Results?
While Kybella starts working immediately to break down fat cells, visible results are not instantaneous. You can expect to start seeing noticeable changes in the appearance of your chin within 4-6 weeks after your first treatment. The fat-reduction process continues for several months, with the most dramatic results typically visible 2-3 months after your final session.
Since Kybella permanently destroys fat cells, the results are long-lasting. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important to prevent fat from accumulating in the treated area again.
Key Takeaways
- Kybella is a non-surgical treatment designed to reduce fat under the chin, commonly known as submental fat.
- The treatment involves multiple small injections and typically requires 2-4 sessions for optimal results.
- Recovery time is minimal, with most patients experiencing swelling, bruising, and tenderness for a few days post-treatment.
- Results appear gradually over the course of a few months, and the fat reduction is permanent for most patients.
FAQs
1. How long does a Kybella treatment session take?
A typical Kybella session lasts about 15-20 minutes. The actual injection process is quick, but you may spend some extra time discussing aftercare with your provider.
2. Is Kybella treatment painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during Kybella treatment. Numbing cream or ice is often applied to the treatment area beforehand to reduce any pain or discomfort from the injections.
3. How long does swelling last after Kybella?
Swelling is common and can last anywhere from a few days to a week. For some patients, minor swelling may persist for up to two weeks, but it usually diminishes significantly after the first few days.
4. How painful are Kybella injections?
Kybella injections can cause some discomfort, but the level of pain varies from person to person. Many patients report a sensation of burning or stinging during the injection, which typically lasts for a few minutes. To minimize discomfort, providers may apply a topical anesthetic or ice the area before treatment. Overall, while there may be some discomfort, most patients find it tolerable.
5. How long does it take to recover from Kybella?
Recovery from Kybella is relatively quick, with most patients experiencing minimal downtime. After the treatment, you may notice swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the area for about 1 to 2 weeks. These side effects usually subside on their own, and normal activities can typically be resumed immediately after the procedure, although it’s advisable to avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours. For optimal results, follow any post-treatment care instructions provided by your provider.
By understanding what to expect during Kybella treatment, you can make an informed decision and prepare for a smooth experience with long-lasting results.
