A First-Time Guide to Kybella

The presence of a double chin, or excess fat under the chin, can make us appear and feel older than we really are. Thanks to Kybella treatment, permanently removing stubborn fat has become simpler than ever. Kybella is the first and only FDA-approved injectable for reducing unwanted fat cells beneath the chin. Kybella is composed of deoxycholic acid, which permanently removes the fat cells in the injected area. After a brief series of treatments, patients can expect a permanent reduction of fat in the treated area, provided they do not gain weight afterward. Kybella has been proven to be a very safe and effective option for fat reduction. When trying Kybella injections for the first time, it is always best to consult with an experienced board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City.

The first step for Kybella treatment is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Green. She will review your medical history, previous cosmetic procedures, facial structure, and aesthetic goals to determine if you’re a good candidate for Kybella. She will also explain the treatment process, including how to prepare, what to expect during your injections, and how to care for the area afterward. She will help you understand how many sessions you might need to achieve your desired results. Dr. Green has extensive experience with non-invasive cosmetic injectables and will ensure your Kybella treatment is smooth, pain-free, and straightforward.

Dr. Michele Green is a world-renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over twenty-five years of experience offering some of the most discerning individuals in the world the best non-invasive procedures for jawline contouring, including Kybella treatment to eliminate a double chin permanently. Dr. Green adopts a holistic approach and upholds a less-is-more philosophy, tailoring each patient’s cosmetic treatment plan to their unique needs and aesthetic goals. She is consistently recognized as one of New York City’s top dermatologists by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, The New York Times, and New York Magazine for her dedication and expertise. During your consultation with Dr. Green at her private office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that helps you look and feel like the best version of yourself.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment designed to reduce submental fat, also known as a double chin. Kybella uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid to break down fat cells in the treated area. Kybella treatment is non-invasive, meaning it removes unwanted, stubborn fat with minimal downtime or side effects. Kybella is an excellent alternative to invasive plastic surgery procedures like liposuction, which involve anesthesia, long recovery times, incisions, and a higher risk of side effects. With just a few Kybella treatments, patients can achieve permanent fat reduction results, as long as they don’t gain excess weight afterward. Dr. Green often includes Kybella in her patients’ treatment plans to help them achieve a more defined jawline. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will review your medical history and facial structure to create a personalized Kybella treatment plan to help you look and feel your best.

How does Kybella work?

Kybella is made from a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring enzyme in the body that breaks down dietary fats. Once injected, the deoxycholic acid immediately starts destroying the excess fat cells in the area. The broken-down fat cells are then absorbed and eliminated by the body’s natural metabolic process. Results from a Kybella treatment usually become visible within four to six weeks. After just one session, patients can see up to 25% of the fat cells in the treated area.

What is Kybella treatment used for?

Kybella is a non-surgical treatment designed to eliminate small, unwanted pockets of fat in specific areas. It is currently the only FDA-approved injectable option for reducing the appearance of a double chin. Kybella injections are often used off-label to reduce fat in other parts of the body, including bra fat, upper arms, knees, and abdomen. When considering Kybella, it is important to consult with an experienced injector, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC, to minimize side effects and achieve the best results.

What are the benefits of Kybella injections?

The main advantage of Kybella treatment is that it provides a safe and effective way to reduce fat with minimal downtime and side effects. Previously, fat reduction could only be achieved through liposuction, a surgical procedure involving incisions, anesthesia, a lengthy recovery, and a higher risk of complications. In contrast, Kybella treatment is almost painless thanks to a topical numbing cream. Typical side effects include mild redness and swelling, which usually resolve shortly after the procedure. Moreover, results with Kybella are permanent as long as the patient maintains a stable weight and does not gain excess weight afterward. Thanks to Kybella injections, eliminating a double chin has never been easier.

How does Kybella compare to chin liposuction for beginners? Is it better than plastic surgery?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that uses anesthesia to remove fat cells from a specific area of the body. A small incision is made, and a blunt cannula is inserted to suction out the fat. Unlike non-surgical options like Kybella, liposuction offers immediate results and usually only requires one session. However, it involves significant downtime, surgical risks, and high costs, which can discourage some patients. Non-invasive fat reduction with Kybella has become increasingly popular for treating double chins, since it requires no downtime, naturally metabolizes and removes fat cells, and provides permanent results. Kybella is an ideal choice for first-time patients wanting to eliminate unwanted submental fat without the risk of adverse side effects.

Who is a good candidate for Kybella injections?

The best candidates for Kybella injections are individuals looking to reduce mild to moderate submental fullness with realistic expectations about non-invasive fat reduction. Patients should be at least 21 years old and in good physical and mental health. Kybella is not intended for weight loss, and ideal candidates should be within 15 pounds of their target weight before treatment. Patients with a history of severe allergies, bleeding disorders, difficulty swallowing, neck medical conditions, or keloid scarring are not ideal candidates. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not undergo treatment, as safety has not been established for them. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in New York City, she will review your medical history, facial anatomy, and aesthetic goals to determine if Kybella injections are suitable for you.

How do I create a Kybella treatment plan?

The first step in getting Kybella injections is to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. During your visit, she will assess if you are a good candidate for Kybella treatment. Medical photographs will also be taken at this time to track your progress. Your current weight will be recorded as well, since weight gain after starting Kybella can influence your results. She will then explain the Kybella injection process, any pre- and post-treatment instructions, and give an estimate of how many sessions might be needed to reach your desired outcome.

What should I do before my Kybella treatment?

One week before the procedure, patients should stop using blood-thinning medications and supplements, including Advil, Aleve, Aspirin, Motrin, multivitamins, fish oil, and vitamin E, to lower the risk of bruising. Patients prone to bruising can take Arnica, an over-the-counter supplement, three to four days before the procedure to help reduce the likelihood of bruising after the injections.

On the day of your procedure, a topical numbing cream will be applied to the entire submental area one hour before your appointment. The numbing cream contains lidocaine, an anesthetic, to maximize comfort during the procedure.

What should I expect during my first Kybella treatment?

Upon arrival at Dr. Green’s dermatology office, the numbing cream will be removed, and the area will be sterilized for treatment. Dr. Green will mark the area and carefully inject the Kybella into the targeted fat pockets. Patients may feel slight stinging or burning during the procedure, which is normal. After the procedure, ice packs will be applied to the area to help reduce swelling and discomfort. She will then provide you with relevant aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment for four to six weeks.

What is the aftercare post-treatment with Kybella?

After the procedure, it is crucial to avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, steam rooms, and saunas for 48 hours to reduce the risk of swelling. Patients should sleep on their backs with their heads elevated by using one or two extra pillows to decrease swelling. They should also continue to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements for an additional week to lessen the chance of bruising. Ibuprofen can be used if pain relief is needed during this period. Patients may also continue taking Arnica pills for another three to four days to help reduce bruising. If a bruise occurs, they should keep taking the Arnica pills until it heals.

What are the risks or side effects of Kybella?

Kybella injections are very safe, with few risks or side effects. The most common side effect is mild swelling around the injection sites, which usually goes away on its own within two weeks. Other typical side effects include mild redness, tenderness, bruising, and localized numbness, which also usually resolve naturally.

Less common but serious side effects can happen if Kybella injections are given improperly by an untrained or inexperienced medical provider. Injecting Kybella too close to the marginal mandibular nerve can cause temporary nerve damage, resulting in facial muscle weakness, an uneven smile, or difficulty swallowing. When considering Kybella treatments, it is important to consult with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York City. With over 25 years of experience in administering Kybella for fat reduction, she ensures that your treatment results will be both safe and effective.

How soon will I see results from my first treatment?

Kybella treatment does not produce immediate results, and patients usually see a reduction in fat four to six weeks after treatment.

Do I need more than one Kybella session?

Kybella treatment is a gradual process, and most patients will not see their desired results after just one session. The total number of treatment sessions needed depends on the amount of fat in the treatment area and how well the patient responds to treatment. Typically, patients undergo three to four sessions to fully reduce unwanted fat in the chin area and improve the contour of the jawline.

Is Kybella permanent?

Yes! The final results from Kybella are permanent because it destroys fat cells in the treated area. However, if patients gain too much weight after the procedure, the existing fat cells can expand or new ones can develop. Patients should maintain regular exercise and a healthy diet to keep their weight stable and ensure the long-lasting effects of Kybella.

Can you combine Kybella with other treatments to enhance the appearance of the jawline?

Absolutely! Kybella injections effectively reduce unwanted fat in the treated area, leading to a more contoured jawline. However, patients might also develop jowls or loose skin around the jaw and chin. Jowls are a natural part of aging caused by declining collagen levels over time. As we age, collagen production slows, resulting in skin laxity. The most effective non-invasive solution to combat loose, sagging skin is Thermage. Considered the gold standard for skin tightening, Thermage firms and tightens the skin with no downtime or side effects. It uses radiofrequency energy to target deeper skin layers, stimulating new collagen growth and remodeling existing fibers. Patients typically see noticeable results four to six months after treatment, with effects lasting up to two years. Many opt for yearly sessions to maintain their results. Dr. Green often combines Thermage and Kybella treatments to improve jawline contouring and create a more youthful look.

Many patients also combine Botox with Kybella to achieve a facial slimming effect and improve the appearance of the jawline. Botox is a neuromodulator that works to block nerve signals to targeted muscles. When injected into the masseter muscles on each side of the jaw, Botox can temporarily “freeze” the muscle, reducing contractions. Over time, the masseter muscles shrink, resulting in a slimmer look to the jawline. The effects of masseter Botox typically last three to four months before another treatment session is needed. Patients often undergo regular sessions to preserve and improve their results. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will help you develop a treatment plan that includes Botox and Kybella injections. While Botox is the most popular neuromodulator on the market, Dysport, Xeomin, and other neuromodulators can also be used for masseter reduction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about First Time Kybella Treatment

Is Kybella safe?

Absolutely! Kybella gained FDA approval in 2015 after extensive clinical studies demonstrated its safety and effectiveness. Since then, thousands of people have experienced the fat-reduction benefits of this innovative injectable treatment. However, it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable medical professional about Kybella to ensure safety, achieve optimal results, and reduce the risk of unwanted or serious side effects. Dr. Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience delivering top non-surgical cosmetic procedures to some of the world’s most discerning clients, including Kybella. In fact, she was among the first healthcare providers in NYC to offer Kybella treatments for a double chin. When you see Dr. Michele Green at her private practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will review your family and medical history, examine the area to be treated, and design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

How painful is Kybella for first-timers?

Kybella is not painful at all. To enhance comfort, a topical anesthetic cream containing lidocaine is applied to the treatment area one hour before the procedure. Additionally, ice packs are immediately applied to the treated area after the injections to alleviate any initial discomfort.

How much swelling happens after the first Kybella session?

Swelling is the most common side effect of Kybella, caused by the chemical reaction as deoxycholic acid targets fat cells in the treated area. It usually peaks 24 hours after treatment and may last for several days. Although it can’t be completely avoided, patients can reduce its severity by avoiding strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, and activities that raise body temperature for 48 hours after treatment. Additionally, patients should sleep with their head elevated on the first night after injections to help decrease swelling.

How long is the downtime after Kybella?

Downtime is minimal after Kybella treatment. Patients may experience mild swelling, redness, or bruising, which typically resolves on its own within one to two weeks. These common side effects do not prevent patients from resuming their daily activities. They can return to their normal routine immediately after treatment, provided they avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, steam rooms, and saunas for 48 hours.

Can I go back to work after my first Kybella injection?

Absolutely! While some mild swelling and redness are common after the procedure, it is perfectly fine to return to work immediately. Those who feel self-conscious about any mild swelling can wear a turtleneck or loose scarf to mask its appearance.

How much does Kybella cost for a first treatment?

The cost of a first-time Kybella treatment varies based on factors like location, the amount of stubborn fat, and the injector’s skill. Typically, having Kybella at a Med Spa is more cost-effective, but consulting a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, is crucial to minimize the risk of side effects or unwanted results. Inexperienced or untrained injectors can cause serious issues such as nerve injury, trouble swallowing, an uneven smile, and facial muscle weakness. Dr. Green, with over 25 years of experience in non-invasive procedures such as Kybella, will review your medical history, facial structure, and aesthetic goals to create a personalized and effective treatment plan that targets stubborn fat. During your consultation, the cost will be discussed.

How do I get started with Kybella injections today?

Kybella injections are a safe and effective non-invasive procedure used to eliminate unwanted, stubborn fat from a treatment area. It is important to consult with an expert board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green to get the best results and ensure a smooth procedure. After reviewing your medical and cosmetic history and confirming that you are a suitable candidate for Kybella, Dr. Green will guide you through the treatment process, inform you about what to avoid before and after, and develop a plan to help you achieve ideal results. Dr. Green was among the first healthcare providers in NYC to offer Kybella injections for non-surgical fat reduction and has helped many men and women worldwide reach their contouring goals. If you’re nervous about getting Kybella injections for the first time, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green today.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over twenty-five years of experience offering some of the world’s most selective clients top non-invasive facial rejuvenation treatments, including Kybella, Botox, dermal fillers, and microneedling. Dr. Green embraces a holistic and less-is-more philosophy, tailoring each treatment plan to meet her patients’ unique needs and aesthetic goals. Recognized repeatedly for her dedication and expertise, she is consistently listed among NYC’s top dermatologists by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, The New York Times, and New York Magazine. To book a consultation with Dr. Green and learn more about Kybella, contact us online or call the NYC office at 212-535-3088 today.