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KYBELLA®

KYBELLA® is an injectable treatment FDA-approved for the non-surgical reduction of excess fat accumulated beneath the chin (submental fat), which is most commonly referred to as a “double chin.” To treat the appearance of a double chin, KYBELLA® is delivered in a strategic series of small injections throughout the targeted area. The active, naturally-occurring ingredient in KYBELLA®, deoxycholic acid, then breaks down fat cells it comes into contact with, eliminating them from the area permanently. As fat cells are metabolized by the body during this process, the volume of treated fat pockets will diminish and the area should appear smoother and tighter over time.

Repeated treatments with KYBELLA® may be necessary to achieve the desired end result – at least two treatment sessions are typically recommended. During your consultation, one of our facial plastic surgeons, Dr. J. David Kriet or Dr. Clinton D. Humphrey, will determine if you are a good candidate for KYBELLA® and provide you with an estimation of how many treatments may be necessary to achieve the results you desire.

What are the Benefits of KYBELLA®?

KYBELLA® is currently the only FDA-approved injectable specifically designed to improve a double chin. This treatment offers many benefits when compared to surgical procedures, including:

  • Minimally invasive, in-office treatment
  • No extensive downtime
  • Long-lasting results

In addition, results from KYBELLA® often appear as if they were achieved naturally due to the gradual metabolization of excess fat cells. For most patients, injections take no longer than 15 to 30 minutes depending on the extent of concerns treated.

Am I a Candidate for KYBELLA®?

KYBELLA® is ideal for patients who wish to reduce excess fat beneath the chin. Those interested in this non-surgical neck contouring technique should also:

  • Be at least 18 or older
  • Have little to no skin laxity under the chin
  • Not be pregnant or nursing
  • Not have any infections or medical conditions that affect the injection site(s)

In cases where loose, inelastic skin and neck musculature are contributing to the appearance of neck fullness or a double chin, patients may be better served with a surgical procedure that can address skin and muscle laxity—such as a facelift and neck lift. One of our surgeons will perform a full evaluation during the initial consultation and talk with you about the best options for your needs.

How is KYBELLA® Treatment Performed?

Treatment with KYBELLA® is considered minimally invasive and often results in very little downtime. Injections are placed according to a planned diagram marked on the skin, and the entire treatment can take about 30 minutes. Once the injections have been administered, ice is applied to the area to reduce swelling and redness. Some mild swelling and bruising will be present in the treatment areas; however, this should dissipate in the days following the procedure. The full results of KYBELLA® treatment are typically seen within 3 to 4 months.

How Long Does KYBELLA® Last?

The outcome of KYBELLA® should last indefinitely as long as patients maintain a stable weight and engage in a healthy lifestyle. Since the injectable is designed to break down fat cells permanently, patients should be able to enjoy their new neck contours long into the future. That said, treatment does not make individuals immune to gaining additional weight elsewhere. Drs. Kriet and Humphrey encourage patients to stay active in order to avoid the redistribution of excess fat elsewhere, and preserve the aesthetic achieved with KYBELLA®.

How Much Does KYBELLA® Cost?

According to national averages, KYBELLA® generally costs between $1,200 and $1,500 per treatment. However, prices can vary according to each patient’s needs and aesthetic goals. Our office will be able to provide you with a personalized cost estimate once your concerns are evaluated in a consultation. While KYBELLA® is not usually covered by insurance providers, those who are interested in patient financing may be able to better manage their costs with the payment plans offered by CommerceCare™. If you have any other questions about the cost of KYBELLA®, please feel free to contact The University of Kansas Health System today.

Does KYBELLA® Cause Any Side Effects?

All cosmetic and medical treatments involve some risk of complication, and the potential side effects that can occur after KYBELLA® include trouble swallowing, bruising, ulcers, or facial muscle weakness, among other possible negative reactions. These complications are considered extremely rare as long as patients enlist a qualified injector or board-certified facial plastic surgeon to perform their treatment. Our medical team takes patient safety very seriously and will never recommend KYBELLA® for patients who may not be a good candidate for the injectable. More common side effects from treatment include temporary swelling, tenderness, or numbness. These reactions are typically well-tolerated and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Our patients have achieved remarkable results with KYBELLA®, effects that used to only be possible through surgical options such as liposuction. If you are interested in finding out if KYBELLA® may be right for you, contact our practice today to schedule your consultation with one of our skilled facial plastic surgeons.