The Skinny
Average Recovery
3 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Injected
Surgical
No
Cost
$1200 - $5400
AEDITpro
Before & After Images by Provider
Before & After Images by Provider
Kybella®
The Specifics
What is Kybella®?
Kybella® is an injectable prescription fat dissolving medication that is a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. It is only FDA approved for use in the submental area (i.e. the double chin area), however, it has been clinically used to successfully reduce fat deposits in the stomach, back, knees, and elbows. Kybella® is only indicated after diet and exercise modifications have been implemented and appropriately trialed. Kybella® contains the active ingredient deoxycholic acid which helps the body breakdown and absorb fat cells.
What cosmetic concerns does a Kybella® procedure treat?
Who is the ideal candidate for a Kybella® procedure?
The ideal candidate for a Kybella® injection has unwanted fat deposits in the neck and chin area causing undesirable fullness in the submental area. Kybella® treatments are not recommended for those with active skin infections, those under 18, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What is the average recovery associated with a Kybella® procedure?
Most patients experience minimal downtime from Kybella® injections. The main concern following an injection is to control and mitigate swelling. Swelling can persist for up to six weeks. A hoarse voice, discomfort around the injection site, and hard nodules in the treatment area typically resolve within hours to days.
What are the potential side effects of a Kybella® procedure?
Possible side effects following a Kybella® injection include prolonged swelling in the chin, neck, and chest, soreness, numbness, redness, discomfort, bruising, hoarse voice, nerve injury, or hardened tissue in the treatment area.
What can someone expect from the results of a Kybella® procedure?
The results of a Kybella® injection will require two to six initial treatments to achieve desired results. Once the final results are achieved they will last four to six weeks. The results are permanent, but will be affected by weight gain and aging.
What is the average cost of a Kybella® procedure?
A Kybella® injection can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $5,400. The actual cost of Kybella® is dependent upon location, board certified facial plastic surgeon or healthcare provider, and insurance. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of Kybella®.
Pros
- Effective Treatment
- Non-invasive
Cons
- Multiple Treatments
- Results Take Several Weeks
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Kybella is an injected, prescription medicine that is approved by the FDA for fat reduction in the submental area. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after Kybella injections.
The Takeaway
Kybella® is an injectable treatment FDA approved to reduce submental fullness (a double chin), and also used off-label for excess fat in other areas. The active ingredient deoxycholic acid breaks down fat cells through multiple treatment sessions with few side effects.
