What to Expect With Kybella Before and After
Kybella is an FDA-cleared treatment that can reduce submental fat (fat beneath the chin and along the neckline) without major surgery. While injections are required, the procedure is far less invasive than surgical chin liposuction, and the results can be stunning.
As you approach Kybella—whether you’re sure it’s right for you or you just want to learn more—it’s wise to become as informed as possible about the procedure. So, below, we’ve provided some useful information on what you can expect from Kybella before and after.
An Overview of Kybella
So, what is Kybella? The active ingredient in Kybella is called synthetic deoxycholic acid. It works by breaking down fat cells in the target area. Once these fat cells are destroyed, the body’s natural metabolic process removes them over time, leading to a slimmer profile in the chin and neck area.
Extensive research was performed before this fat-reducing product was released. Ultimately, the treatment has been found to have excellent results for many patients. It’s one of the best non-surgical options available for fat reduction and, specifically, double chin reduction available today.
What to Know Before Undergoing Kybella Treatment
It’s done in-office and doesn’t take long.
The Kybella procedure is almost always performed in-office. Each injectable treatment typically takes less than 30 minutes. Naturally, you’ll need a consultation to discuss your goals and confirm your candidacy first. The best candidates for this procedure are healthy but have excess chin fat. You should be a non-smoker and not actively undergoing any kind of anticoagulant therapy or related treatments, which could cause excessive bleeding.
Your surgeon will need to mark your chin and neck area prior to the injections.
Before injections begin, your provider will carefully mark the area to ensure precise treatment placement. This step is essential to target submental fat effectively. Small injection sites are strategically spaced across the treatment area to maximize fat cell reduction in the chin and neck area.
You may want numbing cream, but discomfort should be mild.
Although not always absolutely necessary, many patients request numbing cream be applied to minimize discomfort. Some patients report a mild stinging sensation as the solution is injected.
Don’t be worried if the treatment area swells significantly.
After the injections, expect some swelling. This is a common response as the body begins breaking down the fat cells. The swelling may feel pronounced for the first few days and can last up to a week. Some professionals say that more swelling means more fat reduction, so embrace this side effect!
What to Know After Undergoing Kybella Treatment
You should be able to return to your normal activities directly after treatment.
Most patients can resume their daily routines immediately after their Kybella injections. While swelling or minor tenderness at the injection site may occur, these symptoms don’t usually interfere with regular activities. In fact, the minimal downtime is one reason Kybella is popular.
Ice packs can help with pain and swelling.
During Kybella recovery, applying ice packs to the treatment area can help alleviate swelling and reduce any lingering discomfort. Never apply an ice pack directly to the skin, and always follow your surgeon’s directions.
It will take some time to see your full results.
Kybella works gradually, and it may take several weeks or even months to see the final outcome. Results depend on how quickly your body processes the fat cells destroyed by the injections. Although initial changes might be noticeable sooner, many patients find that their full results develop over two to three months.
You may need more than one treatment.
While some people see satisfactory results after one session, often, patients require multiple treatments to achieve their desired outcome. Most providers recommend two treatments spaced several weeks apart, though some people require more to completely reduce their chin fat.
FAQs: Before and After Kybella
How soon will I see my desired results after Kybella?
Initial changes may be noticeable after just a few days or weeks, but patience is key. Kybella works progressively to reduce submental fat. Overall, it could take several months to see your full results.
What is Kybella recovery like?
During Kybella recovery, you may have some swelling and bruising. But overall, you should feel fine and be able to return to work and everyday activities. For example, for most patients who receive 1 vial Kybella before and after periods are much the same. You won’t need to totally relax and rest unless you feel like it, and for the most part, you should be free to live your life as usual.
How much does Kybella cost?
Kybella cost varies, so we recommend booking an appointment. We’ll need to take a look at your submental area and learn more about your aesthetic goals.
How many Kybella treatments are usually needed?
Most patients require two to four sessions for optimal results, though this varies based on the individual’s submental fullness and desired outcome. Treatment sessions are typically scheduled one to two months apart to allow for healing and maximize fat reduction.
Will Kybella help with skin laxity under the chin?
Kybella is designed to target fat, not loose skin, so it may not address skin laxity. Patients with concerns about skin firmness might want to discuss options with their provider for additional treatments that specifically target skin tightening and would offer maximum results.
Learn More at a Personal Consultation
If you do decide to get Kybella before and after chin reduction you are of course always free to ask questions. Double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sieber and his team are here to support you as you learn more about plastic surgery and what procedures will work best for you.
We always want to ensure that our patients experience the best visits when they come to see us for the aesthetic treatments. Please take a moment to read our reviews from actual patients and to look at our Kybella chin before and after photos.
You deserve to achieve your aesthetic goals, and we can help you get there! Contact us today to book a consultation.