Posted by Dr. Katarzyna Skura in Conditions on January 23, 2024
There are many reasons why a person might have a double chin. Genetics, being overweight or obese, or even losing weight and being left with excess skin are all possible causes. However, if you haven’t been able to get rid of your double chin with diet and exercise, you may be looking for other options. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about permanently reducing your double chin with Kybella.
What Is Kybella?
Kybella is one of the best options for addressing the issue of a double chin. If you are looking to reduce the excess fat in your chin but don’t want to undergo a surgical procedure, Kybella may be the right treatment for you. It’s minimally invasive and uses injections to target fat cells in the chin. This treatment is available for people 18 and over who have moderate amounts of fat under their skin. There’s minimal downtime, so you can go about your regular daily routine after your treatment.
Preparing for Your Kybella Treatment
If you choose to get Kybella to address a double chin, you must properly prepare for the procedure. You’ll first meet with your provider and discuss your overall health to determine whether the treatment is right for you. If you have any problems with breathing or difficulty swallowing, you may not be a good candidate for Kybella. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing should also avoid Kybella.
Before your treatment, your face should be thoroughly washed to prevent infection. You should also avoid taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen to minimize your risk of bruising.
How Does Kybella Work?
Kybella uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid to dissolve fat and allow it to be absorbed back into the body. The substance is injected into the chin to target fat cells and destroy them, leaving you with a sleeker look and a shapelier chin.
Before getting your treatment, your provider will make markings on your face where the injections will be administered. They may also place a numbing ointment or ice pack to reduce the pain. Typically, you receive 15 to 20 microinjections to treat a double chin. Sometimes, you may need up to 50 injections. After your treatment, you should begin to notice the effects after a few weeks.
Multiple sessions are typically necessary before you see your results. Usually, treatments are spaced out about a month apart with up to six sessions.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Kybella?
While Kybella is minimally invasive, it still comes with certain risks and side effects. Typically, these include pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the treated area. You may also experience numbness. Serious side effects that could potentially occur include weakness of the facial muscles, difficulty swallowing, and nerve damage. If you experience any of these serious side effects, you should immediately reach out to your healthcare provider.
Schedule A Consultation
If you are in or near the Chicago, Illinois area and want to learn more about Kybella treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Skura at Art Aesthetica today! Call our office at (312) 586-8961 or use our online contact form.
Katarzyna Skura, MD believes in education, prevention, and a balanced body and mind. Her role is to guide patients toward their greatest health and wellness. She takes the time to design individual treatment plans for each patient, concentrating on prevention and each patient’s unique needs.