KYBELLA is a prescription medicine used to improve the appearance of moderate to severe fat below the chin.
The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
When injected into the fat beneath the chin, Kybella destroys fat cells, resulting in a noticeable reduction in fullness under the chin.
Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired aesthetic goal.
When injected into the fat beneath your chin, KYBELLA destroys fat cells. Once destroyed, those cells cannot store or accumulate fat. The active ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. Fat debris produced from the treatment area is cleared away through your body’s own immune system.
You must be over 18 to receive injections. We cannot treat patients who are pregnant or nursing. You also cannot be treated within 30 days of major dental surgery. We recommend you do not take any blood thinners prior to treatment as this can promote bruising. Icing the area under the chin before treatment can help ease any discomfort.
A series of injections will be administered into the fat under your chin. Once prepped, the process may take 15 to 20 minutes. Usually 2 to 3 treatments spaced at least 60 days apart are recommended for the full results. You may experience tenderness to the area for a couple days and notable swelling for up to one week after treatment.
Do NOT use the following products 2 days prior or 2 days after your treatment: RetinA, retinoids, or similar vitamin A compounds, harsh scrubs or exfoliating products, or bleaching creams.
Gentlemen: Shave the treatment area one day before your scheduled treatment
Do not apply any creams, lotions, perfume or makeup etc. to the treatment areas prior a to be treated, prior to treatment.
Schedule your Kybella® appointment at least 4 weeks prior to a special event which you may be attending, such as a wedding or a vacation (due to bruising and prolonged swelling).
Reschedule your appointment at least 48 hours in advance if you have a severe rash, cold sore, or blemish in the treatment area.
Avoid anti-inflammatory/blood thinning medications 10-14 days prior and 3-4 days post treatment. Medications such as: Aspirin, Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Omega 3/Fish Oil Supplements, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, Aleve, and other NSAIDS have a blood thinning effect and can increase the risk of bruising and swelling after injections.
Do NOT consume alcoholic beverages 1 week prior to treatment (alcohol may thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising).
Consider taking Arnica tablets beginning 1 week prior to injections to prevent bruising.
Use a gentle cleanser with tepid water to cleanse the face for the 48 hours. Gently dry the treated area.
Try to sleep on your back and with your head elevated for 2-3 days after treatment to help minimize swelling.
You may take acetaminophen/Tylenol for pain. It is best to avoid aspirin or NSAIDS such as Ibuprofen because they may increase your potential to bruise.
Taking an over-the-counter antihistamine (Zyrtec, Claritin) daily may help with swelling.
Avoid strenuous exercise or activity for at least 48 hours after treatment.
Avoid drinking alcohol for a minimum of 24 hours as this may contribute to bruising and/or swelling.
Avoid salty foods as this can increase swelling to the areas even more than what is to be expected.
We recommend waiting a minimum of 2 weeks before receiving any facial, facial massage, skin care, or laser treatments to the face or neck.
If you experience any redness, itching, or welts, please call our office. Benadryl is an over-the-counter medication that can help.
Additional treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired level of correction.