CoolSculpting vs Kybella

Excess fat can be extremely stubborn and hard to get rid of, even after regularly exercising and maintaining a healthy diet. The area under the chin is highly susceptible to holding excess fat. Submental fullness, or a double chin, can make an individual look heavier or older and can worsen the appearance of the jawline and neck. A recent survey by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) found that nearly two-thirds of patients are bothered by submental fullness. Most patients experience great difficulty getting rid of chin fat without cosmetic treatment – luckily, Dr. Michele Green employs both CoolSculpting and Kybella, two non-invasive cosmetic procedures, in her private NYC office for permanent fat removal.

CoolSculpting is a fat-freezing procedure that uses patented cooling technology to freeze and destroy fat cells while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed. Kybella is an injectable treatment that uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid to dissolve and eliminate fat cells. With both treatments, the dead fat cells are absorbed and excreted through the body’s natural metabolic processes. CoolSculpting and Kybella can permanently destroy about 20-25% of fat cells in the treated area after one session, with no downtime and few side effects. CoolSculpting and Kybella are both excellent options for fat reduction, but it can be hard to determine which procedure is best suited for you. If you are interested in getting rid of your double chin or treating other areas of stubborn fat on your body, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is a world-renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience using non-surgical cosmetic procedures to give her patients ideal body contouring results. Dr. Green has been using CoolSculpting for over 12 years and was among the first healthcare providers in NYC to offer Kybella injections for fat reduction in her private Upper East Side dermatology office. She is consistently recognized as one of NYC’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times due to her dedication and expertise. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach to body rejuvenation, embracing a “less-is-more” philosophy and customizing each patient’s treatment plan to suit their particular anatomy and aesthetic goals best. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to develop a CoolSculpting or Kybella plan that leaves you feeling and looking like your best self.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved, non-invasive procedure that utilizes cryolipolysis, or the freezing of fat, to destroy and eliminate fat cells. The cooling technology used only affects the fat cells in the area while leaving the surrounding area unharmed. After just one session of CoolSculpting, a 25% reduction of stubborn fat can be seen in the treated area. CoolSculpting is FDA-approved to treat a multitude of areas, including under the chin (“double chin”), under the jawline, abdomen, back fat, bra fat, flanks (“love handles”), thighs, under the buttocks (“banana rolls”), back fat, and upper arms.

What is Kybella?

Kybella was the first and only FDA-approved injectable cosmetic procedure to eliminate excess fat cells in the submental area or underneath the chin. Kybella is made of synthetic deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the human body that breaks down and absorbs dietary fat. Once injected into the treatment area, fat cells are permanently destroyed and removed from the body. While Kybella is most popularly used in the submental area to reduce submental fullness (“double chin”), it can also be used to remove excess fat from other areas of the body, such as the jowls, knees, abdomen, bra area, arms, buttocks (“banana rolls”), and flanks (“love handles”).

How does Kybella works vs how does CoolSculpting work?

Kybella is a non-invasive, injectable treatment that permanently destroys excess fat cells. Kybella is made of a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, which assists in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat in the body. Once Kybella is injected into subcutaneous fat, the fat cells are dissolved and quickly destroyed through a process known as injectable lipolysis. Once destroyed, these fat cells are unable to accumulate excess fat. After 4-6 weeks following treatment, the dead cells are absorbed and cleared through the body’s natural metabolic processes. Kybella is a gradual fat reduction treatment, and depending on the initial severity of submental fat or excess fat in the treatment area, multiple treatment sessions may be required. Individuals with a small amount of initial submental fat may be able to achieve their desired results with one treatment session, while individuals with larger initial amounts of submental fat may require additional treatment sessions. Once the series of injections is complete, fat cell reduction in the area is permanent. Apart from some mild initial swelling around the injection site, there are little to no side effects associated with Kybella injections, making it an excellent alternative to liposuction or other surgical procedures for eliminating excess fat cells.

CoolSculpting is a fat-freezing cosmetic treatment that is FDA-approved for fat reduction and body contouring. CoolSculpting uses cold temperatures to induce cryolipolysis, or the destruction of fat cells through freezing. The patented cooling technology is delivered by fitting CoolSculpting applicators, such as the CoolMini, CoolAdvantage, and CoolSmooth, to the treatment area. Each CoolScultping applicator is uniquely designed, with differences in size and suction power, for fat removal in different body areas. Since fat cells freeze at higher temperatures than the surrounding tissue, CoolSculpting treatment can freeze and destroy the fat cells while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed. Once the fat cells are eliminated, the body can excrete it through natural metabolic processes. Typically, full results from a CoolSculpting session can be seen after 90 days, though some individuals have seen visible results as early as 45 days following treatment. One treatment session can permanently reduce unwanted fat cells in the treatment area by up to 25%, and repeating treatment in the same area can result in a 40% reduction of fat cells. CoolSculpting revolutionized cosmetic dermatology, allowing individuals to reduce unwanted, stubborn fat without any downtime or discomfort.

Which works better, Kybella or CoolSculpting?

Kybella and CoolSculpting are both extremely effective non-surgical treatment options for removing and destroying unwanted fat cells. Kybella uses deoxycholic acid to induce injectable lipolysis, while CoolSculpting uses patented cooling technology to induce cryolipolysis. Kybella and CoolSculpting both result in a permanent reduction of fat cells in the treatment area. While both procedures are effective at eliminating stubborn fat, the best procedure to use is typically based on the amount of fat in the treatment area. Kybella injections are best suited for removing small or moderate pockets of excess fat cells, such as chin fat. CoolSculpting is best suited to treat larger areas of fat with greater surface area. For individuals with large amounts of submental fat, results can be optimized by combining Kybella and CoolSculpting treatments, first by using a CoolSculpting applicator to debulk the fat, followed by Kybella injections to destroy any remaining fat cells.

Will Coolsculpting or Kybella work for me?

Absolutely! It is important to remember that CoolSculpting and Kybella are not designed to be weight loss treatments, and individuals interested in these treatments should be at or near their ideal weight. CoolSculpting is excellent for removing stubborn pockets of fat that do not respond to exercise or diet, while Kybella is effective for eliminating small or moderate pockets of fat in the treatment area. The best way to know if CoolSculpting or Kybella will work for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green. In her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will assess your anatomy and the amount of fat and skin laxity in the treatment area to create an individualized treatment plan suited to you.

Which is better for double chin, Kybella or CoolSculpting?

The amount of submental fat will determine whether Kyella or CoolSculpting is the better procedure for double chin reduction. Kybella injections are effective at treating double chins with small to moderate amounts of excess fat cells. Individuals with larger amounts of excess fat under the chin are more suited to CoolSculpting treatment, which can debulk the fat in the area. In some cases, Dr. Green may recommend combining CoolSculpting and Kybella treatments to achieve optimal results – first, the CoolMini applicator from the CoolSculpting system will be used to reduce the fat in the area, followed by Kybella injections to eliminate any stubborn, lingering fat cells. In your initial consultation, Dr. Green can assess your facial anatomy and submental fat to determine whether Kybella, CoolSculpting or a combination of the two procedures is best suited to treating and eliminating your double chin.

What are the side effects for CoolSculpting?

As CoolSculpting is non-surgical and does not require anesthesia, there are little to no side effects associated with treatment. Some common side effects of CoolSculpting treatment include tingling, temporary redness, soreness, and swelling in the treatment area. These side effects all resolve on their own several weeks following treatment.

What are the side effects for Kybella?

Similarly to CoolSculpting, there are minimal potential side effects associated with Kybella injections. With all injectable treatments, there may be mild tenderness, bruising, swelling, and redness around or near the injection site. Dr. Green advises discontinuing blood-thinning medications and supplements such as Aspiring, Motrin, and Ibuprofen one week before and after Kybella injections to reduce the risk of bruising and swelling. Patients prone to bruising can additionally take Arnika supplements or use topical Arnika gel to minimize and prevent bruising. Nerve injury is an extremely rare and serious side effect of Kybella injections, which can result in facial muscle weakness, trouble swallowing, and an uneven smile. To avoid potential side effects and guarantee the best results from treatment, it is important to have your injectable treatment performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Green.

When does Kybella swelling go away?

Swelling is the most common side effect of Kybella treatment and typically resolves independently within several days following the injections. The amount of swelling experienced after treatment is dependent on the number of fat cells treated, with the first treatment in the series generally resulting in the largest amount of swelling. Immediately following the Kybella injections, an ice pack will be applied to the treatment area to reduce swelling. On the night of your procedure, it is recommended to sleep with your head elevated to avoid placing pressure on the treatment area. Dr. Green advises patients to avoid saunas, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise for 48 hours following treatment to prevent exacerbating swelling.

Does CoolSculpting or Kybella kill fat cells forever?

Both CoolSculpting and Kybella are effective treatments for killing and eliminating fat cells forever. It is important to note that while Kybella and CoolSculpting can permanently remove unwanted fat cells in the treatment area, weight gain can hinder the efficacy of treatment. Excess weight gain can lead to an expansion of the remaining fat cells or an accumulation of new fat cells in the treatment area. The best way to ensure your Kybella or CoolSculpting treatment works and provides you with optimal results is to maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise.

Is CoolSculpting or Kybella safer for double chin?

Both CoolSculpting and Kybella are safe treatment options for treating a double chin. CoolSculpting uses cooling technology to freeze and destroy fat cells in the targeted area – since fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than other cells, the surrounding tissue will not be harmed during the procedure. Kybella uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in the body. Some swelling, bruising, and redness are common at or near the injection sites after the procedure, but these side effects typically resolve on their own. In the past, plastic surgeons performed procedures such as liposuction to reduce the appearance of a double chin; however, these procedures involved incisions, anesthesia, long recovery times, and side effects such as loose skin. The creation of non-surgical options for fat reduction, such as CoolSculpting and Kybella, has revolutionized cosmetic dermatology due to their safety and efficacy in permanently removing unwanted fat in various treatment areas. CoolSculpting and Kybella require no incisions or anesthesia and little to no downtime or side effects, making them the perfect treatment option for getting rid of a double chin.

Will CoolSculpting get rid of chin fat?

Absolutely! Chin fat can be particularly stubborn to remove despite healthy dieting and regular exercise. Individuals interested in getting rid of chin fat can use the CoolMini, a small CoolSculpting applicator that has an ideal shape, curvature, and size for treating the chin area. One or two CoolMini applicators are generally needed to treat the submental area. If a small amount of fat remains in the area several months after treatment, Dr. Green may recommend Kybella injections to reduce the remaining fat cells and add contouring to the jawline.

How does Kybella get rid of chin fat?

Kybella utilizes a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid to get rid of chin fat. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that aids in breaking down and absorbing dietary fat. Kybella injections into the subcutaneous fat of the submental area will destroy the fat cells in a process known as injectable lipolysis. The dead fat cells are then metabolized and excreted by the body. Multiple sessions may be necessary to obtain your desired cosmetic results, and the number of treatments needed will depend on your facial anatomy and the amount of submental fat in the area. After a series of treatment sessions, the unwanted fat cells will be permanently eliminated, and a slimmer, more contoured jawline will be created.

Is Kybella or CoolSculpting better for double chin?

While Kybella and CoolSculpting are both effective and provide long-lasting results, it is important to consider your facial anatomy and the amount of subcutaneous fat in the area to decide which treatment will be more effective. Kybella injections work best for smaller areas of submental fat, while CoolSculpting works best for debulking large areas of fat. In some cases, Dr. Green may recommend combining CoolSculpting and Kybella to maximize the results from treatment. CoolSculpting can first be used to remove the fat cells in the submental area – once several months have passed and the effects from the CoolSculpting treatment are visible, Dr. Green can inject Kybella into the area to eliminate any lingering fat cells and further tone and contour the area.

Does CoolSculpting or Kybella kill more fat cells?

Both CoolSculpting and Kybella destroy roughly 20-25% of fat cells in the targeted area after one treatment session. CoolSculpting patients have reported a 40% reduction in fat cells after a second CoolSculpting treatment, while Kybella patients have reported a 50% reduction in fat cells after a second injection session.

Will CoolSculpting get rid of belly fat?

Yes, CoolSculpting can be used to get rid of belly fat. CoolSculpting is able to reduce stubborn pockets of fat in the abdomen and flanks, also known as love handles. The applicators used are manufactured in various shapes and sizes to ensure that the unwanted fat cells in the target area are treated effectively. During your initial CoolSculpting consultation with Dr. Green, you will be fitted with applicators best suited to getting rid of your belly fat to guarantee optimal body contouring results. Multiple applicators may be necessary to maximize the removal of excess fat in the area. Results will be visible three to four months following the CoolSculpting procedure.

Which is better, Kybella or CoolSculpting?

Kybella and CoolSculpting are both safe and effective non-surgical options for removing unwanted fat in various areas of the body, including the submental area. In the past, invasive surgical procedures like liposuction were used to reduce fat and the appearance of a double chin – while these procedures were effective, they resulted in surgical scars, long recovery times, and a high risk of side effects. Today, Kybella and CoolSculpting are the most popular fat-reduction treatments, permanently destroying excess fat cells with minimal downtime and little to no side effects. The best treatment for you will depend on your facial anatomy and the amount of subcutaneous fat in the area. If you are ready to get rid of stubborn, excess fat under the chin and around other body areas, consult with Dr. Green today to determine if Kybella or CoolSculpting is right for you.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience helping the world’s most discerning men and women achieve their ideal body contouring goals. Dr. Green is an expert in non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as CoolSculpting and injectable treatments such as Kybella and Botox. She has consistently been rated by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and the New York Times as one of the best NYC dermatologists due to her expertise and dedication to her patients. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will assess your anatomy and concerns to customize a rejuvenation treatment plan to suit your needs and aesthetic goals best. If you are interested in non-surgical fat reduction and want to learn more about whether Kybella or CoolSculpting is right for you, contact us online or at 212-535-3088 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Green.