Kybella

A well-defined jawline is widely regarded as an aesthetically desirable facial feature. A double chin, also known as submental fat, is a common occurrence that happens when a layer of fat forms below your chin. A double chin is not necessarily an indication that a patient is overweight. A double chin can be the result of genetics or facial bone structure. Fortunately, there is a non-surgical, non-invasive solution beyond exercise and diet. That solution is Kybella.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is the first and only FDA approved nonsurgical treatment for a double chin. Liposuction, neck lifts and laser treatments are all invasive. With Kybella, you get all the benefits without the risks of surgery, anesthesia, bleeding, blood clots, downtime, etc.

Kybella is an injection into fat below the chin (submental) to reduce moderate to severe fullness.  The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. It works by physically destroying fat cells.

What are Kybella’s benefits?

• Get rid of your double chin without surgery, recovery, or downtime
• Enhance a fatty, aging neck by removing excess fat. However, Kybella will not remove sagging skin.
• Treatments are quick, only 15-20 minutes.
• Improved chin and jawline

Your consultation

During your consultation with Dr. Zeena, she will discuss your medical history and aesthetic goals and you will be evaluated to determine if you are a good candidate for Kybella treatments.  The risks, benefits, cost, and number of treatments will be discussed. She will determine the number of treatments you need to achieve your goal. Recommended treatments will vary from individual to individual. Up to 6 treatments may be recommended, spaced no less than 1 month apart.

Many patients experience visible results in 2 to 4 treatment sessions.  Although results are noticeable, they are not immediate.  Kybella works gradually to destroy fat cells.  Once the aesthetic effect is achieved, further treatment is not necessary.

The procedure explained

Your chin and neck will be cleaned, and the area to be injected will be marked with a surgical pen to delineate the injection points. To minimize discomfort ice, topical numbing cream or injected local anesthetic may be used. Dr. Zeena may suggest you take an over-the-counter pain reliever before your appointment.

Your provider will administer small amounts of Kybella at the injection points. The entire procedure should last about 15-20 minutes. Once destroyed, those cells cannot be stored or accumulate additional fat.  Fat cleared from the treatment area is processed through your body’s natural metabolism.

After the procedure

The most common side effects of Kybella include swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness, and areas of hardness in the treatment area. Swelling and bruising may last up to a week.  Bruising can be hidden with makeup. Application of ice or a cold pack to the treatment area for 10 to 15 minutes will help reduce swelling. You should be able to resume your normal daily activities, but are likely to have swelling, so keep your social plans and work commitments in mind when scheduling your treatment. Avoid heavy exercise the day of the treatment.  Do not rub or massage the area.

You may not be a good candidate if you have a skin infection, or excessive laxity or prominent muscle bands in the neck. Children under the age of 18 are not candidates.

Are there risks?

As with any procedure there can be serious side effects. Serious side effects include nerve injury in the jaw, which can cause an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness, and trouble swallowing.  Dr. Zeena’s skill and expertise is the key factor in successful treatment and avoidance of side effects.

Should you experience any side effects that bother you or that do not go away after your treatment, contact Dr. Zeena.

At New Orleans Aesthetics we offer comprehensive dermatologic care and the latest technical advances with emphasis on safety and superior results. Contact us to schedule a consultation to learn more.