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Guide to Kybella Procedure

Guide to Kybella Procedure

Many people are bothered by excess fat beneath the chin, which can give the appearance of a “double chin.” In the past, this issue could only be corrected with a surgical procedure — usually, a neck lift or liposuction, both of which required significant surgery and lengthy downtimes.

Today, however, a new, innovative procedure called Kybella offers a fantastic solution to double chins, and it’s even non-surgical, to boot.

Kybella treatment is the first-ever FDA-approved injectable that was specifically designed to fix double chins.

If you are struggling with this issue and are interested in how Kybella treatment may be able to help, read on. We’ve compiled an entire guide dedicated to this amazing new injectable and its myriad of benefits.

What Is Kybella?

Kybella is the brand name for an FDA-approved injectable called deoxycholic acid, which targets submental fullness (excess fat under the chin). The injectable is only available by prescription and must be administered by a qualified medical professional.

Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule that works by breaking down and absorbing dietary fat. Essentially, Kybella destroys fat cells, and the results are clearly visible. Simply take a look at some before and after photos of patients who have received Kybella injections to help with their double chins.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Kybella?

Kybella treatment may be a good solution for you if:

  • You struggle with or are bothered by submental fat (excess fat beneath the chin).
  • Excess fat under the chin has made you feel self-conscious or embarrassed; you tend to frequently wear scarves and turtlenecks or style your hair strategically in order to cover it up.
  • You’ve tried getting rid of the submental fullness on your own, but even with exercise, diet, and creams or serums, it has not gone away.
  • When you look in the mirror, you feel that you look heavier or older than you really are — all because of the excess fat beneath your chin.
  • You’re turned off by the idea of getting surgery to fix the issue.
  • You cannot have surgery for a medical reason.

Once you speak with Dr. Sieber about your reasons for getting Kybella injections, he’ll also discuss your qualifications for the surgery in a medical sense. That is, it’s important that you are in good overall physical and mental health before getting any type of cosmetic procedure, and the treatment area must be free of infection. You must be at least 18 years of age, and it’s also best if you are a non-smoker. Finally, you should have balanced and realistic expectations about the results that Kybella injections can provide.

post procedure kybella swelling

How Kybella Injections Are Administered

Once you’ve met with Dr. Sieber for your initial consultation appointment and he has deemed you a quality candidate for this procedure, you will book your appointments. Most patients who receive Kybella injections require at least two (and sometimes up to six) treatment appointments.

Upon arrival at your first appointment, Dr. Sieber will greet you, and the procedure will take place in his office. The first step involves placing a grid pattern over your chin or the treatment area. The area will then be iced, and — for those patients with a low tolerance for pain — ibuprofen may be given prior to the injections. Finally, Dr. Sieber will strategically inject the treatment area with a needle, targeting the specific issues that you would like to fix.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kybella

How long do Kybella injections take?

The administration of Kybella takes just 20 to 30 minutes. The procedure can be performed in-office, and the patient can go right home afterwards.

Is anesthesia used with Kybella?

Either ice or local anesthesia is used during Kybella administration.

Which is better, Kybella or Liposuction?

Both Kybella and liposuction effectively reduce chin fat, but Kybella is preferred by some for its simplicity. Liposuction, though still an excellent option, involves a longer time commitment, while Kybella can be completed in about 30 minutes during an office visit.

How many sessions of Kybella are needed?

The number of Kybella sessions needed varies depending on individual goals and the amount of fat being treated. Most patients typically require 2 to 4 sessions, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart, for optimal results. However, some may need up to 6 treatment sessions for more significant fat reduction. Dr. Sieber will tailor a treatment plan based on your unique needs.

What is recovery like after getting Kybella injections?

Recovery from Kybella is relatively painless. Most patients are able to return to their everyday, normal activities (including work, school, and exercise) within 24 to 72 hours.

Are there any side effects with Kybella?

Side effects from Kybella injections are usually relatively minor. The most common side effects include slight bruising, some numbness, and swelling.

kybella procedure cost

How much is a Kybella treatment?

The cost of a Kybella treatment varies based on the area being treated and the number of sessions required. On average, each session can range from $600 to $1,500.

How painful is Kybella?

The injections are quite manageable, as a very small needle is used to inject the product into soft, fatty tissue, making the process nearly painless. After a few minutes, though, a mild burning sensation may develop as the deoxycholic acid starts to work.

When can you see the results of Kybella?

Most patients need to have multiple treatments (between two and four treatments) to adequately fix submental fullness. Results should start to become apparent after the second session, which is usually scheduled for one to three months after the first session.

Who should not use Kybella?

Kybella is not recommended for individuals with active infections near the injection site, those with difficulty swallowing, or anyone with loose or sagging skin. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with certain medical conditions (those who take medications especially blood thinners), should also avoid Kybella unless cleared by their plastic surgeon.

How long do the results from Kybella last?

Kybella results should be permanent because the destroyed fat cells don’t degenerate.

Book Your Consultation Today

Want to learn more about Kybella?

Schedule your consultation appointment today to find out how this amazing FDA-approved injectable treatment can help eliminate the excess fat causing your double chin.

Dr. Sieber is one of the only double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area, and he even trains other surgeons in his techniques regarding injectables like Kybella. His patients not only receive one-of-a-kind service and the best possible care from our staff, but they also have Dr. Sieber’s undivided attention during consultations. Explain the issues that trouble you most, and rest assured that Dr. Sieber will do his utmost to help you find the best possible solutions.

Contact us today to book your Kybella consultation!

Dr. Dave Sieber and his staff are so awesome! Dr. Sieber is personable yet professional, his work is impeccable. He listens to his patient and works with them to achieve what they want. He’s like my hair dresser, a magician, you just want to do a happy dance with the results, only these results are lasting. Ok, but seriously, the procedure was very smooth, the staff and the doctors (Dr Sieber and the anesthesiologist) had great communication and made sure I was comfortable with very clear and concise pre op and post op directions. The healing process was very easy and the results are FABULOUS. Side note, Dr. Sieber has really awesome skin, I feel like this is impressive and important because really, would you trust a dentist with bad teeth? I am so elated and satisfied with the results, the size is perfect and they look and feel very natural. They are exactly what I wanted.*

SF Scientist

Dr. Sieber is a doctor who is not only extremely knowledgeable about the latest in cosmetic procedures, but a doctor who truly cares about his patients. I highly recommend him!*

christinemv

Dr. Sieber is a doctor who is not only extremely knowledgeable about the latest in cosmetic procedures, but a doctor who truly cares about his patients. I highly recommend him!*

jamiee

Dr. Sieber is attentive, responsive, and well trained. I had seen him for Botox and filler and he had done both without any pain or bruising and more importantly the results were fabulous. He has met with me on time at each appointment. He communicates what to expect, made sure I was comfortable throughout the procedure, checked on my healing every day post procedure. He couldn’t be more delightful not more talented. I had seen other plastic surgeons for in office treatments over the past decade and Dr. Sieber is at the top of the list in terms of delivering the desired outcome and high quality care.*

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