Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable that reduces moderate to severe fullness under the chin, often called a double chin. Its active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, breaks down fat cells in the treated area.
Once those fat cells are gone, they do not come back, so once you reach your result, more treatment usually is not needed.
Your provider checks whether the fullness is from fat, which Kybella treats, or from loose skin or other causes, which it does not.
The area is marked and may be numbed or iced. Kybella is given as a series of small injections under the chin. The visit is usually short.
Swelling under the chin is expected and can last from a few days to a couple of weeks. Bruising, tenderness, numbness and firmness are also common. Plan around the swelling if you have an event.
Many people need 2 to 4 treatments, spaced at least a month apart, to reach their result.
An FDA-approved injectable that destroys fat cells under the chin.
Many people need 2 to 4 treatments, spaced at least a month apart. Up to 6 treatments can be given.
Treated fat cells do not come back. Weight gain can still add fullness to the area.
Swelling is the most common side effect and can last from a few days to a couple of weeks, often more after the first treatment.
Most people feel stinging or burning for a short time. Ice or numbing helps.
Swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness and firmness under the chin are common. Rarely, a nerve in the jaw can be affected, causing an uneven smile or trouble swallowing, which usually goes away.
Kybella is FDA-approved only for fat under the chin.
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
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