What Is Kybella and How Does It Work?

kybella by luna med spa in brokfield

Many struggle to remove submental fat, commonly known as a double chin, which can affect their confidence and facial aesthetics. Kybella offers a solution for those looking to reduce this stubborn fat without undergoing surgery. Utilizing a naturally occurring molecule in the body, Kybella focuses and breaks down fat cells in the submental area. This non-invasive treatment is gaining popularity for its effectiveness and minimal recovery time, making it a preferred choice for individuals seeking a more defined jawline and improved profile. With Kybella, achieving a slimmer, more contoured look is within reach.

What Is Kybella?

Kybella is an injectable treatment designed specifically to address submental fat, commonly known as a double chin. It is a practical, non-surgical alternative to more invasive approaches such as liposuction. Kybella’s active ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a synthetic version of a naturally occurring molecule in the body that facilitates the disintegration and absorption of dietary fat.

Approved by the FDA, Kybella has been proven safe and effective through extensive clinical trials. It offers a convenient and minimally invasive option for those who are self-conscious about their chin profile. By undergoing a series of small injections, patients can accomplish a more contoured and defined jawline. Each treatment plan is personalized, taking into account the unique needs and goals of the individual, ensuring tailored results.

Kybella’s appeal lies in its ability to provide lasting results without the need for incisions or extensive recovery time. Once the fat cells in the treated area are eradicated, they are eliminated by the body’s natural metabolic processes and do not return, provided the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle. 

How Does Kybella Work?

Kybella utilizes its active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, to target and disintegrate fat cells in the submental area, which is the region beneath the chin. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats. When synthetically replicated and injected into the submental fat, it disrupts the membrane of fat cells.

The science behind Kybella’s mechanism involves several key steps. First, the deoxycholic acid in the injection breaks down the cell membrane of the targeted fat cells. This disruption causes the fat cells to rupture, releasing their contents into the surrounding area. Once the fat cells disintegrate, the body’s natural metabolic processes begin to eliminate the cellular debris through the lymphatic system. Over time, this process results in a gradual reduction of the fat layer in the treated area.

This breakdown and removal process is thorough and effective, leading to the permanent destruction of fat cells in the treated area. The body’s lymphatic system efficiently processes and removes the remnants of these cells, ensuring that the treated fat does not return. This process typically unfolds over several weeks, during which the treated area gradually becomes more contoured and defined.

The precision of Kybella’s action is notable; it exclusively targets fat cells without affecting other types of cells or tissues in the area. This targeted approach minimizes side effects and ensures that the surrounding skin, muscles, and nerves remain intact.

The Treatment Process

The Kybella treatment process is structured to ensure both effectiveness and patient comfort, beginning with an initial consultation and assessment.

Once treatment is approved, the process begins with marking the injection sites on the submental area. This is done to ensure precision and to cover the area evenly. The healthcare provider uses a grid pattern to map out the specific locations where the Kybella injections will be administered.

To minimize discomfort, a topical anesthetic or an ice pack is often applied to numb the area before the injections. Depending on the patient’s sensitivity and preference​, some practitioners may also use local anesthesia. The numbing process helps ensure that the patient experiences minimal pain during the procedure.

Next, the healthcare professional administers the Kybella injections using a fine needle. The number of injections necessary can alter depending on the amount of submental fat and the individual’s anatomical structure. On average, a single treatment session can involve multiple small injections spread across the marked areas​.

After the injections, the treated area may be gently massaged to help distribute the Kybella solution evenly and enhance its effectiveness. This also helps to break down any remaining fat cells more efficiently. Patients might experience some swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection sites, a standard part of the recuperation process, and typically subsides within a few days​.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Kybella?

A good candidate for Kybella is typically troubled by the appearance of submental fat or a double chin and seeks a non-surgical solution to improve their chin and jawline contour. Ideal candidates are generally in good health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the treatment outcomes.

Kybella is particularly suitable for individuals with moderate to severe fat beneath the chin that persists despite diet and exercise. These candidates often find that no matter how much they adjust their lifestyle, the stubborn submental fat remains, affecting their overall facial profile and self-confidence​​.

However, Kybella is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the effects on unborn or nursing babies are not studied. Additionally, those with an infection in the treatment area should avoid Kybella until the infection is fully resolved. People with previous surgical procedures in the neck or chin area should consult their healthcare provider to ensure that Kybella is a safe option for them.​ 

Takeaway

Ready to say to put off your double chin and achieve a more defined jawline? Schedule a consultation with Luna Med Spa today to learn how Kybella can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Our team creates a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, ensuring safe and effective results. Don’t wait to enhance your confidence and look your best—contact Luna Med Spa now and take the first step towards a slimmer, more contoured profile. 

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