A double chin can make you feel unattractive. Extra fat under the chin, known in the medical world as submental fat, can make people look older and heavier than they are. In addition, as individuals age, this sagging increases. Genetics and extra pounds also play a role. Having a double chin is not a minor inconvenience – over 80% of those with the condition express dissatisfaction. Until now, there have been only two treatments to firm up a saggy neckline: surgery and liposuction.
As of April 2015, the FDA approved a new treatment for double chins in the form of an injectable. Kybella is a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally-occurring substance that destroys fat cells and helps reabsorb dietary blubber. In more than 20 clinical trials testing over 2,000 individuals, Kybella demonstrated the ability to break down submental fat.
How Kybella Works
Kybella is injected into fatty areas beneath the chin. The drug’s effectiveness lies in its ability to destroy a fat cell’s membrane, making it burst. What is left of the cell is naturally reabsorbed. Even though Kybella does not tighten the skin, many patients notice a firming effect. Since the drug only received FDA approval last year, some practitioners believe it is too soon to tell if the results are permanent. However, because fat cells are destroyed, a flabby chin is likely a thing of the past.
What Treatment Involves
Dr. Fasano will meet with you to plan treatment, which will depend on your desires and his expertise. This treatment involves numbing the area followed by numerous injections under the chin. The procedure normally takes 15 to 20 minutes. There is no need to bandage the area following treatment. The regimen usually requires more than one visit, spaced at least a month apart, and as many as six sessions may be necessary.
After the Treatment
Side effects vary, but most commonly include discomfort, swelling, numbness, redness, bruising, and small, hard areas around injection sites. Small percentages of clinical studies participants had side effects like a lopsided smile or weakness in facial muscles, and difficulty swallowing. Both side effects disappeared in time without treatment.
What Makes A Good Kybella Candidate?
There are some considerations before deciding to begin treatment with Kybella. The treatment is intended for localized use; large-scale fat (such as love handles) are not an approved use of Kybella injections and will not respond to the therapy.
It is vital to inform Dr. Fasano about any past or future surgery you’ve had on your face, neck, or chin; former or current medical conditions involving the neck or difficulty swallowing; swollen lymph glands; previous cosmetic treatments in the facial area; bleeding or clotting problems; and/or a thyroid disorder.
The procedure may not be advisable for pregnant women (or those who plan to become pregnant) or breastfeeding mothers. People taking certain medications, especially blood thinners or those that prevent blood clots, might not be candidates for treatment with Kybella. Individuals with excessive loose skin on their necks are unlikely to be helped by Kybella. This injectable can be used in conjunction with other injected treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers.
Before and After Kybella Injectables
Contact Stuart Plastic Surgeon Dr. Fasano for a Consultation
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your double chin, contact our Stuart office so we can help you decide if Kybella is right for you. A trimmer, more youthful look may be only a few sessions away. Call us at (772) 221-9111 or fill out our online form today!
