Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that dissolves unwanted fat under the chin and defining your jawline without surgery. Using deoxycholic acid to break down fat cells, Kybella permanently reduces submental fullness for a slimmer, sculpted profile with minimal downtime and natural-looking results.
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to reduce submental fullness, commonly known as a double chin. Its active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the area under the chin, Kybella permanently destroys fat cells, resulting in a more sculpted, defined jawline.
The treatment is minimally invasive and requires little to no downtime, with most patients seeing noticeable improvement after a series of sessions. Once the desired results are achieved, no further treatments are typically needed since the targeted fat cells are permanently eliminated.
To minimize swelling and bruising, avoid blood thinners, alcohol, and intense exercise for at least 48 hours prior to your Kybella session.
If you’re prone to bruising, consider taking arnica supplements (with your provider’s approval) a few days before. Do not schedule any important events or photos within a week of treatment—Kybella can cause noticeable swelling initially.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrive with a clean face and neck area.
Your provider will map out the treatment area under your chin and apply a topical numbing cream or ice for comfort. Kybella is injected in a grid-like pattern using a fine needle to ensure even distribution.
You may feel a brief burning or stinging sensation during the injections, but the procedure only takes about 15–30 minutes.
Swelling typically begins within a few hours and is a normal part of the fat breakdown process.
Swelling, firmness, and tenderness under the chin are expected and may last a few days to a couple of weeks. Some patients also experience bruising, numbness, or a feeling of tightness.
Avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, and excess heat (hot tubs, saunas, sun exposure) for 48 hours post-treatment. Sleep with your head elevated and apply cold compresses in short intervals during the first 24 hours to ease swelling.
Do not massage or apply pressure to the area unless instructed by your provider.
Kybella works gradually—most people require 2–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for best results.
Kybella provides permanent results. Once the fat cells under your chin (or in the treated area) are destroyed, they do not return. However, it’s important to maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, as significant weight gain can cause new fat cells to develop in the area.
Yes, Kybella is FDA-approved and considered safe when administered by a qualified and trained medical professional. As with any injectable treatment, there are potential side effects, including swelling, bruising, numbness, redness, and areas of hardness in the treatment area. Most side effects are temporary and resolve on their own. Your provider will review your medical history to ensure Kybella is right for you.
Kybella is FDA-approved specifically for treating moderate to severe fat beneath the chin, also known as submental fullness or a “double chin.” Some experienced providers also use it “off-label” to target small pockets of fat in other areas (like the jowls or bra roll), but this should be discussed in detail to determine suitability and safety.
The number of treatments varies depending on your individual goals and the amount of submental fat. Most patients require between 2 to 6 sessions spaced at least one month apart to achieve optimal results. Your provider will create a personalized treatment plan based on your anatomy and desired outcome.
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