+ What is it?
Kybella is an FDA approved injectable treatment used to reduce “submental fullness” or the fat pad under the chin. The active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, occurs naturally in our bodies and works by breaking down fat cells. Once these fat cells are broken down, they can no longer store or accumulate fat. Your body’s metabolism gradually clears the fat from the treatment area. It is important to note that kybella is good for excess fat, but does nothing for excess skin. It is common to need 6 treatments, scheduled 6-8 weeks apart for a more defined jawline.
+ Before
Avoid alcohol and caffeine before and after your treatment. This will help minimize any bruising or swelling.
If approved by your health care provider, do not take any blood-thinning medications such as Ibuprofen, Advil, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Excedrin, Aleve, etc.
Stay hydrated and avoid coming in on an empty stomach. This will also provide comfort during your appointment.
Starting an Arnica supplement at least 2 days prior to injections may help with bruising.
+ While you're here
A brief consultation will reveal what approach is appropriate based on your needs and goals. After agreeing on the best treatment plan, you will sign a consent form and we will discuss risks and benefits. We will apply numbing cream to treatment areas. We will apply a temporary tattoo template. The site will be injected with a numbing agent. The kybella will then be injected in rows of tiny injection points. You may experience slight stinging and burning that is tolerable for most.
+ After
Avoid extreme temperatures of heat for 24 hours post treatment (i.e. Jacuzzi, hot showers etc.).
Do NOT consume alcohol or sodium for 3 days post treatment to avoid excess swelling.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours post treatment.
Sleep on your back with your head elevated to decrease swelling. You will experience swelling and bruising for 3-5 days post treatment, which will begin decreasing over a period of a few weeks. Swelling can last 4-6 weeks.
Many patients need 2-3 treatments for desired results, please schedule a follow-up appointment 4-6 weeks after your first treatment.
Ice packs may be used to the treated area during the first 12 hours. Ice for 15 minutes every hour. However, icing can be discontinued if uncomfortable.
Do NOT massage the injection site. Swelling, tenderness, bruising, numbness, and areas of firm nodules may occur and will resolve over time without intervention.
Results are not immediate. Results may be seen as early as 4-6 weeks post-treatment, but full results will not be noticed until 12 weeks post-treatment.
Numbness can last up to 12 weeks.
Do not wrap the treated area, and do not take anything to prohibit swelling the day of the treatment or for the days following treatment.
You may feel a sense of heaviness following the treatment, especially when laying on your back. This sensation may make you feel short of breath. However, Kybella® does not compromise your airway. Notify our office if any significant swelling, bleeding, pain, dusky discoloration, difficulty swallowing or smiling, or if fever occurs.