Many people have fullness under the chin, or a “double chin,” even when they are a healthy weight and exercise regularly. Regardless of whether your double chin is caused by genetics, aging, or weight gain, Kybella® is a treatment that may help.
Kybella treatment, a common type of injection lipolysis, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration as an injectable treatment that can improve the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below the chin. Its active ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath your chin, Kybella causes the destruction of fat cells.
In the past, the only options for treating double chin were liposuction and surgery. But some patients were not candidates for surgery or wanted a less invasive option. Now, Kybella provides a minimally invasive treatment option that offers consistent, effective results. However, patients with larger amounts of fat or sagging skin under the chin may benefit from other procedures instead of, or in addition to, Kybella.
Planning and recovery
What to expect
During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will help determine if Kybella is right for you. Our surgeons’ experiences treating necks with a wide range of procedures such as Kybella, liposuction, neck lifts, and facelifts allow them to compare the advantages of each approach and help you make the best decision for your personal goals.
Most Kybella treatments take less than 20 minutes. The treatment area is marked and then numbed with a topical or local anesthetic. Typically 10-30 injections are made per treatment. Many patients experience visible results in two to four treatment sessions. Up to six sessions may be administered spaced no less than one month apart.
Recovery after treatment
After treatment, you may have some swelling, bruising, or numbness for a few days. This may cause mild discomfort which can typically be relieved with ice or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen.
Because fat cells treated with Kybella are permanently destroyed, results are long-lasting and retreatment is generally not expected.
What are the risks of Kybella?
As with most procedures, Kybella does pose some risks. These risks include:
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Areas of hardness
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Bruising
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Numbness
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Redness
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Swelling
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Pain
In rare cases, serious side effects such as nerve injury, facial muscle weakness, and trouble swallowing may occur. Let your surgeon know if you experience these effects.
How much does Kybella cost?
The costs for Kybella vary based on your specific needs. When you come in for your consultation visit, we will be better able to discuss fees in detail with you. Our staff will also review the financing options available and help with any payment questions you may have.
Our providers
Expert plastic surgery care
Getting the care you need starts with seeing one of our plastic surgeons.
Frequently asked questions
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Am I a candidate for Kybella?
You may be a good candidate if:
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You’re physically healthy
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You have good skin elasticity
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Your expectations are realistic
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You understand the risks that come with this procedure
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You’re unhappy with the fat under your chin
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Our locations
Distance from Change locationEnter your location
MedStar Health: Plastic Surgery at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
3800 Reservoir Road NW, BLES Building 1st. Floor Washington, D.C., 20007
866-990-5515
MedStar Health: Plastic Surgery at MedStar Washington Hospital Center
106 Irving St. NW POB North Ste. 3400 Washington, D.C., 20010
MedStar Health: Plastic Surgery at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center
9105 Franklin Square Drive Suite 214 Rosedale, MD 21237
443-777-8667
MedStar Health: Plastic Surgery at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center
18101 Prince Philip Drive., Olney, MD 20832
MedStar Health: Plastic Surgery at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center
7501 Surratts Road Clinton, MD 20735