Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that targets and destroys fat cells under the chin, reducing the appearance of a double chin and other surrounding areas.

Kybella contains deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, it destroys fat cells.

Typically, 2-4 sessions spaced at least one month apart are recommended, but some may need up to six treatments.

Patients may experience swelling, bruising, or numbness under the chin after the treatment, but these side effects generally subside within a few days to a week.

Once the fat cells are destroyed, they cannot store or accumulate fat again. Maintaining a stable weight will help preserve the results.

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to reduce submental fat, commonly known as a double chin. The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the area beneath the chin, Kybella destroys fat cells, leading to a noticeable reduction in fullness and improved jawline definition. Once these fat cells are eliminated, they cannot store or accumulate fat again, providing long-lasting results.

Holly Shipley, PA-C, our Kybella specialist, has performed over 500 treatments. She offers alternative treatment areas to dissolve fat, such as facial jowls, bra fat, abdomen, and other areas that have a small area of fatty tissue, or areas of previous liposuction.

The number of Kybella treatments required varies from person to person, depending on individual goals and the amount of fat present under the chin. Most patients typically need between two to four treatment sessions to achieve optimal results. These sessions are usually spaced about one month apart to allow the body to process and eliminate the destroyed fat cells effectively. During your consultation, we will assess your needs and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The procedure itself usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Patients may experience some discomfort during the injections, which can feel like a slight burning or stinging sensation. After treatment, it is common to experience swelling, bruising, redness, or numbness in the treated area. These side effects typically resolve within a few days to weeks as the body heals.

The results from Kybella treatments are considered permanent once the desired aesthetic response is achieved. Since Kybella destroys fat cells beneath the chin, those specific cells cannot regenerate or store fat again. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent new fat accumulation in other areas of the body. Most patients begin to see visible improvements within two to four weeks after their initial treatment session, with continued enhancement over several months as swelling subsides.