In the age of selfies, Zoom calls, and social media, people are more aware of their facial appearance than ever before. One common concern that many individuals face, regardless of age or weight, is submental fullness—better known as a “double chin.” While diet and exercise can help with overall weight loss, the fat under the chin can be stubborn and resistant to traditional methods. Enter Kybella, a revolutionary, FDA-approved injectable treatment that targets and destroys fat cells under the chin, offering a non-surgical solution to a more contoured jawline.
At Derm Artisan, we’re proud to offer Kybella as part of our advanced aesthetic services. In this article, we’ll explore what Kybella is, how it works, its benefits, side effects, cost, and what patients can expect from the treatment process.
What Is Kybella?
Kybella is the brand name for an injectable form of synthetic deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the human body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected directly into submental fat (the area under the chin), Kybella works by physically destroying fat cells. Once destroyed, these cells lose their ability to store or accumulate fat. This means the results can be long-lasting—potentially even permanent—assuming the patient maintains a stable weight.
Kybella was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015 and has since gained popularity as a go-to non-surgical treatment for improving the appearance of a double chin.
Why People Struggle With Double Chins
Contrary to popular belief, double chins aren’t always a result of poor lifestyle habits. Genetics, age, and skin laxity can all contribute to the development of submental fullness. Some people find that no matter how much they exercise or diet, the fat beneath the chin remains. Others may have a naturally rounder facial structure that accentuates fullness under the chin.
In some cases, weight gain can exacerbate the issue, but even fit and healthy individuals can struggle with this cosmetic concern. For years, liposuction was the only effective treatment. Now, Kybella offers an injectable solution that doesn’t involve surgery, downtime, or anesthesia.
How Kybella Works
Kybella’s active ingredient, synthetic deoxycholic acid, mimics the function of the body’s natural bile acid. When injected into the fatty tissues under the chin, it disrupts the cell membrane of adipocytes (fat cells), causing them to burst and release their contents. The body’s immune system then gradually clears away the cellular debris through its natural healing processes.
Over time, the treated area visibly reduces in size and becomes more contoured, creating a sleeker and more defined chin profile. The destroyed fat cells do not regenerate, which means results can be maintained for years with a healthy lifestyle.
What to Expect During the Procedure
1. Consultation
Before any treatment begins, a comprehensive consultation is conducted. At Derm Artisan, our expert providers will evaluate your facial anatomy, review your medical history, and determine if you’re a good candidate for Kybella.
2. Preparation
On the day of the procedure, the area under your chin will be cleansed and marked for injection sites. A topical numbing cream or ice pack may be used to minimize discomfort. Some clinics also offer local anesthesia.
3. Injection
The treatment itself consists of a series of small injections administered directly into the submental fat. The number of injections can vary depending on the patient’s needs but typically ranges between 20 and 50 injections per session. The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes.
4. Recovery
Kybella is non-surgical, so there’s minimal downtime. Most patients experience swelling and tenderness for a few days to a week post-treatment. You can usually return to daily activities after 24–48 hours, though strenuous exercise may be avoided for a few days.
Treatment Plan and Results
Most patients require multiple sessions to achieve their desired results. Typically, 2 to 4 sessions are sufficient, but some may need up to 6 treatments. Each session is spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart.
Improvements are gradual and subtle, with optimal results usually visible 8 to 12 weeks after the final session. The fat cells that are destroyed are gone for good, but maintaining your results means sustaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Benefits of Kybella
1. Non-Surgical and Minimally Invasive
Unlike liposuction or neck lifts, Kybella requires no incisions, anesthesia, or significant recovery time. It’s an excellent choice for individuals seeking an effective treatment without the risks or downtime of surgery.
2. Permanent Fat Reduction
Because Kybella destroys fat cells permanently, patients can enjoy long-lasting results. Once these cells are eliminated, they cannot store fat again.
3. Natural-Looking Outcomes
Since results develop gradually over time, there’s no sudden change in appearance, allowing for subtle enhancement that looks natural. Friends and family may notice a slimmer face but won’t immediately suspect a cosmetic procedure.
4. Boosted Confidence
A more contoured jawline and defined chin can significantly impact self-esteem. Many patients report feeling more confident in photos, video calls, and everyday interactions.
5. Customizable Treatments
Each Kybella treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs. Your provider at Derm Artisan will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the amount of submental fat and your aesthetic goals.
Risks and Side Effects
While Kybella is generally safe and well-tolerated, it does come with potential side effects. Common side effects include:
-
Swelling
-
Bruising
-
Numbness
-
Redness
-
Pain or tenderness
-
Areas of hardness or lumps
These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days to weeks. Less commonly, Kybella can cause nerve injury in the jaw, leading to an uneven smile or difficulty swallowing. Choosing a skilled and experienced provider greatly reduces the risk of complications.
Cost of Kybella
The cost of Kybella varies based on several factors:
-
Provider experience
-
Geographic location
-
Number of sessions required
-
Amount of fat being treated
On average, each Kybella session ranges between $1,200 and $1,800. Most patients require 2 to 4 sessions, placing the total treatment cost between $2,400 and $7,200. While the cost may seem high, many patients find it worthwhile for a permanent, non-surgical solution.
Derm Artisan offers flexible payment plans and financing options to make Kybella more accessible for patients looking to invest in their appearance and confidence.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
Kybella is suitable for healthy adults over the age of 18 who are bothered by fat under the chin and want to avoid surgery. Ideal candidates:
-
Have moderate to severe submental fullness
-
Have good skin elasticity
-
Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
-
Have realistic expectations
-
Are not experiencing infection or inflammation in the treatment area
If you have significant skin laxity, Kybella alone may not achieve the desired results. In some cases, complementary treatments like skin tightening or thread lifts may be recommended.
Kybella vs. Other Treatments
Kybella vs. Liposuction
-
Invasiveness: Kybella is non-surgical; liposuction is invasive.
-
Downtime: Kybella requires minimal downtime; liposuction requires weeks of recovery.
-
Results: Both offer permanent fat reduction, but liposuction delivers faster results.
-
Cost: Depending on the number of sessions, Kybella may cost about the same as liposuction.
Kybella vs. CoolSculpting (Cryolipolysis)
-
Mechanism: Kybella uses an acid to destroy fat; CoolSculpting freezes it.
-
Applicability: CoolSculpting uses an applicator and may not fit everyone’s anatomy.
-
Precision: Kybella allows for more precise sculpting in small or uneven areas.
Real Patient Testimonials
“I was always self-conscious about my double chin, especially in photos. Kybella changed that. After three sessions, my jawline is more defined, and I feel more confident than ever.” – Amanda T.
“I didn’t want surgery, so Kybella was the perfect alternative. The injections were a bit uncomfortable, but the results were well worth it.” – Jason R.
“The swelling after my first session surprised me, but it went away after a week. By my second treatment, I already saw a noticeable difference.” – Lena G.
Why Choose Derm Artisan for Kybella?
At Derm Artisan, we specialize in aesthetic solutions that deliver natural, beautiful results. Our providers are highly trained in facial anatomy and certified in administering Kybella. Here’s why patients trust us:
-
Expertise: Extensive experience performing Kybella treatments
-
Safety: Meticulous attention to hygiene, safety, and patient comfort
-
Customization: Personalized treatment plans tailored to your face and goals
-
Support: Comprehensive care from consultation to aftercare
We believe that cosmetic treatments should enhance your natural features, not change who you are. Kybella is just one of the many tools we use to help our clients feel confident in their skin.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you’re tired of hiding your double chin in photos or feeling self-conscious on video calls, it might be time to consider Kybella. With its non-invasive approach, permanent results, and minimal downtime, it’s no wonder this treatment is gaining widespread popularity.
Schedule your consultation with Derm Artisan today and take the first step toward a more defined and confident you.
Visit us at www.dermartisan.com
Call: (929) 379-7596
Email: info@dermartisan.com
