Chin Fat Dissolving Injections

Unwanted chin fat, or submental fullness, is a common concern among many of our patients. The submental area under the chin often accumulates fat cells, resulting in a double chin and a weak jawline. Despite weight loss, a balanced diet, and regular exercise, stubborn chin fat can persist, leaving patients wondering whether there is a better solution to eliminate excess fat. In the past, patients underwent liposuction, an invasive procedure with significant downtime and a risk of serious side effects and complications. Today, patients can look forward to Kybella injections, a noninvasive treatment for eliminating chin fat with minimal downtime and side effects. Dr. Michele Green in New York City was one of the first physicians in the United States to use Kybella injections to dissolve chin fat for facial rejuvenation. As a world-renowned cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Green is an expert in Kybella, Botox, and other dermal fillers and injectable treatments.

Approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015, Kybella is an injectable treatment that dissolves unwanted fat in the chin area. With a series of injections spaced about one month apart, Kybella works by using the active ingredient deoxycholic acid to break down fat cell membranes, slimming and contouring the treated area. The number of treatments depends on the amount of fat in the chin area, and Kybella can be used to “debulk” areas with mild to severe fat deposits. Unlike plastic surgery procedures such as liposuction, Kybella is noninvasive and requires no downtime after treatment. If you want to contour the jawline and eliminate stubborn chin fat without surgery, you might be a good candidate for Kybella fat-dissolving injections. To find out whether Kybella is right for you, schedule your appointment with Dr. Michele Green.

Experienced board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has been expertly treating patients at her Upper East Side, New York, dermatology office for more than 25 years. Dr. Green specializes in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, including Botox, Juvederm, laser treatments, dermal fillers, and Kybella injections, which she performs daily in her New York City cosmetic dermatology practice. Dr. Green ensures that all patients receive quality care and full-body rejuvenation and has been consistently voted one of the best doctors in New York City by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, The New York Times, and New York Magazine.

How to get rid of chin fat non-surgically

In a survey by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, researchers found that 67% of participants were dissatisfied with excess fat under the chin and on the neck, also known as submental fullness. Even with a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and regular exercise, stubborn fat can persist under the chin, leading to a double chin and making patients look heavier than they are. While a plastic surgeon can perform liposuction to remove chin fat, plastic surgery is expensive, requires significant downtime, and carries a higher risk of serious side effects, including infection, bleeding, pain, and scarring. Instead, patients can use non-surgical treatment options, such as Kybella injections, to dissolve chin fat.

What are Kybella fat-dissolving injections?

Kybella is the only injectable treatment FDA-approved to dissolve stubborn fat under the chin, helping patients improve their facial profile and contour the neck and jawline. FDA-approved in 2015, Kybella injections have been shown to be safe and effective in numerous clinical trials. They are an excellent alternative to surgical treatments for fat reduction and facial contouring. With the active ingredient deoxycholic acid, Kybella injections help remove stubborn pockets of fat without serious side effects or downtime. Kybella works best with multiple treatment sessions and provides a permanent reduction in fat in the treated area, provided there is no additional weight gain after the procedure.

What does fat dissolving do?

Kybella injections are a cosmetic treatment designed to reduce localized fat deposits, particularly in the double chin area. The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into targeted areas, Kybella dissolves fat cells, leading to a noticeable reduction in volume over time. As the Kybella injections destroy fat cells in targeted areas, the body’s metabolism naturally flushes out the destroyed cells, making the treated area slimmer and more defined. Patients typically require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, and the effects can be permanent because destroyed fat cells don’t regenerate. It’s crucial for individuals considering Kybella to consult a board-certified dermatologist to discuss potential side effects and determine whether the treatment is suitable for their specific cosmetic goals.

Does fat dissolving work on a double chin?

Patients often ask, “Do fat–dissolving injections work on the chin?” A double chin can form when fat accumulates in the submental area due to weight gain, genetics, or the natural aging process. Many patients feel bothered by submental fullness, causing them to seek out treatment options for reducing fat in the chin area. Kybella injections are specifically FDA-approved for dissolving stubborn pockets of fat under the chin. When injected into submental fat pockets, Kybella destroys the fat cells, “debulking” the treated area for a slimmer, more contoured look to the chin and jawline. When a double chin is partly caused by loose skin, fat-dissolving injections can be paired with skin-tightening treatments, such as Thermage radiofrequency laser treatment, for the best results.

Does Kybella have any side effects?

Kybella injectable treatment is safe and effective for reducing the appearance of submental fat, with no downtime. Patients may experience common, mild side effects five to seven days after the procedure, including swelling, bruising, soreness, or redness around the injection site. These symptoms will resolve over time without additional intervention. More serious side effects are very rare and may include hair loss at or near the injection site, nerve injury, or infection. It is essential to seek treatment from an experienced injector and healthcare provider. Less experienced injectors are more likely to cause temporary submandibular nerve damage if injections are performed improperly.

Kybella injections should not be performed in patients with a history of bleeding disorders and should be avoided if there is an active infection in the treatment area. Patients who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should also avoid Kybella injections.

What is the best skincare routine before and after Kybella injections?

The treatment begins with a consultation with Dr. Michele Green at her Upper East Side, New York City office to discuss your aesthetic and physical goals for the procedure. Dr. Green will also assess the treatment area to create a personalized treatment plan. Kybella injections can be paired with other treatments, such as Thermage and CoolSculpting, to enhance the results.

An hour before your treatment session, apply a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort during the procedure. After washing the cream off, Dr. Green will mark the treatment area and inject Kybella directly into the fat cells with a fine needle. The procedure usually takes about 15 minutes. To minimize the risk of bruising at the injection site, Dr. Green advises patients to discontinue blood-thinning medications for at least 1 week before the procedure.

Kybella is a noninvasive treatment, so downtime is minimal after the procedure, and discomfort during the treatment is very low—especially with the addition of the topical numbing cream. After the injections, Dr. Green’s office will apply an ice pack to the injection site to minimize the risk of bruising and swelling. You can return to your daily activities immediately after your treatment, but Dr. Green advises against intense exercise for 48 hours post-treatment.

Will chin filler help double chin?

Chin filler is a cosmetic procedure that enhances the shape and contour of the chin by adding volume, definition, and projection. This treatment can create a more sculpted lower face, potentially resulting in a more defined jawline and improved overall facial harmony. However, while chin fillers can significantly enhance the aesthetic profile of the chin, they do not target or reduce stubborn fat deposits beneath the chin, also known as submental fullness. As a result, outcomes can vary based on factors such as facial anatomy and the amount of filler used. For the best results, consulting with a board-certified dermatologist with years of experience in injections and dermal fillers can help tailor the treatment to one’s specific goals and address any concerns about underlying fat in the area.

What actually works for a double chin?

Lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, along with a consistent exercise routine that includes both cardio and strength training, can contribute to overall fat loss, including in the chin area. For those seeking more immediate or pronounced results, several medical treatments are available. Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment containing deoxycholic acid that targets and dissolves fat cells beneath the chin. This treatment requires multiple injections over time to achieve optimal results, but it offers a permanent reduction in fat cells, thereby diminishing the appearance of a double chin. Another noninvasive procedure is CoolSculpting, which uses a fat-freezing technique to eliminate stubborn fat without surgery. This method is effective for those who prefer minimal downtime and can provide noticeable results over a few weeks as the body naturally processes and eliminates the treated fat cells. For those considering a more traditional approach, surgical liposuction offers a more permanent solution by physically removing fat from the chin area. While this option typically involves more recovery time and higher costs, it can deliver significant fat reduction and more immediate results. Ultimately, the best approach to reducing a double chin will depend on your individual goals. It is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist to navigate these options and tailor a plan that aligns with your specific needs and lifestyle.

How to remove chin fat naturally?

Eliminating chin fat naturally primarily involves maintaining a healthy diet and following a consistent exercise regimen. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help reduce overall body fat, including under the chin. Alongside dietary changes, regular cardiovascular and strength-training exercises can enhance muscle tone and boost metabolism, further aiding fat loss. However, despite these efforts, stubborn fat often persists in areas like the submental region (under the chin), commonly referred to as a double chin. In such cases, individuals might consider supplementary options. Noninvasive treatments such as Kybella, which involves injections of deoxycholic acid to break down fat cells, can effectively target atuboorn chin fat. Ultimately, whether opting for natural methods or considering professional treatments, it’s crucial to consult with a board-certified dermatologist to determine the best approach tailored to individual needs and health conditions.

Fat-dissolving injections: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to dissolve chin fat?

An effective non-surgical method for dissolving chin fat is Kybella injections. Kybella is an FDA-approved treatment that uses deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. During the procedure, a series of small injections is delivered into the submental area, the region beneath the chin. The treatment targets and destroys fat cells, reducing the appearance of a double chin over time. It typically requires multiple sessions for optimal results. Patients can expect minimal downtime and a relatively quick recovery, making Kybella a convenient option for those seeking to enhance their jawline without surgical intervention.

What is Aqualyx?

Aqualyx is a fat-dissolving injection that utilizes deoxycholic acid, a compound naturally produced by the body to help break down dietary fat. This treatment targets localized fat deposits, making it a versatile option for the abdomen, thighs, arms, and under the chin. While Aqualyx can effectively reduce fat in these areas, it often requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, as the body gradually metabolizes the broken-down fat. It’s important to note that Aqualyx is not FDA-approved in the United States, which may be a consideration for those seeking this type of treatment. As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s crucial to consult a board-certified dermatologist to discuss potential benefits, risks, and a personalized treatment plan.

Is chin fat difficult to treat?

Kybella is one of the most effective ways to target excess chin fat. Excess fat under the chin, often called “chin fat,” can persist even for those who maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. This persistence can be due to several factors, including genetics, age, and hormonal changes, making it frustrating for individuals seeking a more defined jawline. If you still have noticeable fullness under the chin despite your best efforts, it may be helpful to consult a board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Green can assess your situation and discuss a range of treatment options tailored to your needs. Potential solutions may include noninvasive procedures such as Kybella injections, which dissolve fat cells, or laser treatments that promote skin tightening. In some cases, surgical options such as liposuction or neck-lift procedures may be recommended for those seeking more dramatic results. Taking this step can provide not only a clearer path to achieving your aesthetic goals but also peace of mind, knowing you have the guidance of an experienced cosmetic dermatologist.

How many fat-dissolving injections do I need for the chin?

The number of injections and treatment sessions necessary will vary from patient to patient depending on the amount of fat in the treatment area, the size of the neck, and the patient’s aesthetic goals. To achieve the best treatment results, Dr. Green recommends that patients undergo three sessions, each spaced approximately four weeks apart. Generally, 3 to 4 treatments are needed for moderate submental fat. At each follow-up appointment, Dr. Green will assess treatment progress against the patient’s aesthetic goals to determine how many additional treatment sessions will be needed.

What not to do after chin fat dissolves

Kybella is a non-surgical option for chin fat removal that requires minimal downtime and allows patients to return to their regular activities almost immediately. After treatment, Dr. Green recommends avoiding places, activities, and supplements that can worsen swelling, a common side effect of Kybella injections. For 48 hours, patients should avoid heat-generating activities, including intense exercise, saunas, and steam rooms. Patients should also avoid blood thinners such as Ibuprofen, Advil, or Aleve, as these can contribute to swelling and worsen bruising. If discomfort occurs after the treatment session, patients should take Tylenol instead. Patients can also reduce the risk of swelling and bruising by sleeping on their backs, propped up with two pillows, for the first night.

Should I massage the chin after fat-dissolving injections

You should not massage the area after Kybella injections, as it can increase the risk of pain, swelling, or bruising. Immediately after the treatment session, Dr. Green will apply an ice pack to the treated area to reduce the risk of common, mild side effects such as bruising and swelling. Dr. Green will then provide patients with clear aftercare instructions on which activities and supplements to avoid and how to reduce the risk of bruising and swelling. Many patients experience swelling as a side effect of treatment, which can persist for several days and should fade within 1 to 2 weeks.

How long does fat dissolving last?

The cosmetic results from Kybella injections are permanent. Kybella injections destroy fat cells in the treatment area and trigger the body’s natural processes for metabolizing the ruptured cells. As a result, it can take multiple sessions and several months for the full effects of the treatment to become visible. However, after 3-4 treatments, the results are permanent, provided patients maintain their target weight.

Is chin fat dissolving permanent?

Kybella injectable treatment is a permanent procedure that eliminates fat cells in the treatment area. The injection’s active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, destroys fat cells in the area, eliminating the double chin and permanently contouring the jawline. The treatment is best for patients at or near their target weight, and the best way to achieve long-lasting results is to maintain a healthy lifestyle of balanced meals and regular physical activity. Kybella will not prevent the accumulation of fat cells if patients gain weight following the treatment. If weight gain occurs and excess fat accumulates in the submental region, patients can receive Kybella treatment again.

Is chin fat dissolving dangerous?

When patients seek treatment from an expert, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green, chin fat-dissolving treatment is a safe and effective option for contouring the neck and jawline. Dr. Green uses Kybella, an FDA-approved treatment for submental fat, based on clinical trials demonstrating its safety and efficacy. The risk of serious side effects is extremely low when you seek treatment from an expert injector like Dr. Green. Less-experienced injectors, such as those at a MedSpa, may be more likely to place the Kybella too close to the mandibular nerve, which can lead to nerve injury, muscle weakness, and an uneven smile. Unapproved off-brand fat-dissolving treatments can also be purchased online and are potentially dangerous to patients. Non-FDA-approved treatments have been found to lead to serious adverse events, such as infection, scarring, deep cysts, skin deformities, and pain. Therefore, seeking a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who uses safe, effective products and injection practices is essential.

How much would it cost to remove my double chin?

The cost of Kybella treatments depends on several factors, including the geographic region where you receive treatment, the type of institution where you receive the procedure, and your specific physical and aesthetic needs. Each patient differs in the buildup of fatty tissue in the treatment area and in neck size. As such, the number of injections and treatment sessions necessary to achieve optimal results may vary from patient to patient. Additionally, the treatment price will change depending on whether you require additional cosmetic treatments to debulk the treatment area or tighten the skin. During your consultation with expert dermatologist Dr. Green, she will determine your treatment schedule, and her office can provide you with a more accurate cost estimate.

Does chin fat dissolving work?

Yes! When performed by an expert dermatologist like Dr. Green, chin fat dissolving is a safe and highly effective treatment for patients seeking to eliminate submental fat and achieve a slimmer, more contoured neck and jawline. Dr. Green uses Kybella, the only FDA-approved injectable treatment for reducing stubborn fat under the chin. After more than 20 clinical trials involving more than 2,600 patients, Kybella was shown to permanently eliminate moderate-to-severe submental fat in 3 to 4 treatment sessions. Schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Green today to determine whether you are a good candidate for Kybella fat-dissolving injectable treatment.

Where to get fat-dissolving injections

Fat-dissolving injections, such as Kybella, should be performed only by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in a medical setting to ensure safety, efficacy, and optimal results while limiting the risk of serious side effects. Serious side effects can occur if Kybella is injected by an inexperienced or unqualified injector, including difficulty swallowing, nerve injury resulting in an uneven smile, and facial muscle weakness. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist and expert injector with over two and a half decades of experience, providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-surgical procedures for body contouring and skin rejuvenation, including Kybella treatment to eliminate excess fat cells permanently. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side about Kybella, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns and aesthetic goals, helping you look and feel your best.

How to get started with Kybella injections for chin fat-dissolving today

Submental fullness, also known as the “double chin,” is characterized by stubborn pockets of fat in the chin area and can make many patients self-conscious. According to the American Society for Dermatological Surgery (ASDS), a recent study found that 67% of patients felt uncomfortable with fat accumulation under the chin. A double chin and sagging jowls can be nuisances, as even with a healthy diet and a steady exercise regimen, submental fat is difficult to eliminate without the help of a cosmetic procedure. Fortunately, a safe and effective non-surgical treatment option is available to reduce stubborn pockets of fat under the chin: Kybella, a fat-dissolving injectable. With deoxycholic acid as its active ingredient, Kybella injections destroy fat cells in the treated area, contouring the neck and jawline for a slimmer, more contoured appearance. The best first step in eliminating your double chin is to schedule a consultation with expert dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over 2.5 decades of experience providing her patients with the best noninvasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, creating customized skincare routines and treatment plans that address her patients’ unique concerns and aesthetic goals. She is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, The New York Times, and Super Doctors as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Please call us at 212-535-3088 or email our New York City-based office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green to determine whether Kybella fat-dissolving injections are right for you.