Kybella: The Who, What, And Why Of These Fat-Busting Injections!
Phillip Chang, MD
Board Certified By The American Board of Plastic Surgeons.
Voted Top Plastic Surgeon in Loudoun, Virginia
Offices in Leesburg, Virginia.
With all the popular fat-removing cosmetic procedures available, it’s hard to know which one is right for you. But if it’s a small droop under your chin that bothers you, Kybella may just be your best choice! Liposuction is one way to address it, but Kybella is a much simpler option for removing that unwanted fat – and it doesn’t involve surgery!
What Are Kybella Injections?
If you’re looking for a non-invasive, out-patient procedure, look no further than Kybella injections. These injections target the submental fat underneath the chin area – often referred to as a “double chin.” Over a series of injections, Kybella shrinks the fat cells and keeps new ones from forming.
Who Should Try Kybella?
Does Kybella Involve Surgery?
For some, surgical measures to address a chin bulge seem extreme. And thanks to Kybella, you don’t have to choose surgery to love the way you look!
Kybella is a newer treatment plan on the market that some cosmetic facilities are using as a better alternative to surgery. You can talk to any doctor about getting a referral to a cosmetic facility in your area that does the procedure. At Aesthetica, we offer a free consultation with Dr. Chang or one of our highly trained nurses.
Is Kybella Safe?
Before, During, And After Kybella:
What Happens During The Consultation?
Before you go any further, you need to have a consultation to see if you’re a good candidate for Kybella. During the consultation, they’ll ask you several questions about your medical history and your current lifestyle. If you’re pregnant or nursing, you’ll need to avoid the procedure. Certain medical history factors may also rule you out.
Answering these questions will help determine your recovery time and possibly the number of injections you’ll need. The nurse will help calm your fear of needles and explain the procedure to you. If you decide to have the procedure, they’ll most likely take some pictures for your “before and after shots.”
How Do I Prepare For Kybella Injections?
It’s a good idea to wash your face before you go. Wash your face with warm water and your usual mild soap. However, it’s best to avoid your normal skin-care routines such as lotions or moisturizers. The nurse will most likely tell you to avoid taking over-the-counter pain relievers. This will keep you from bruising after the procedure.
When you arrive on the day of the procedure, the nurse will prep you for the procedure. This doesn’t take long at all. If she didn’t take “before shots” earlier, she will at this time. She’ll also apply a numbing agent to your chin area. Then, she’ll mark the area with a temporary tattoo so the doctor know where to give the injections.
What Happens During The Procedure?
The procedure itself is over very quickly! You’ll most likely feel the injections go in but they shouldn’t feel unbearable thanks to the numbing agent that the nurse applied earlier. As the drugs begin working, you may feel a small burning sensation at the injection site. Let the the doctor know if you feel like you need ice your chin between injections. (This will help numb the area even more.)
How Long Does The Procedure Take?
You’ll most likely receive 20-30 injections on the first session. The entire procedure should not take more than 1 hour. This includes prep time, injections, and instructions after the procedure is done.
What Is Recovery Like?
After the procedure, the nurse will apply a bandage around your head to cover the chin area. You will likely experience swelling and soreness on your chin for a couple of weeks. After the first 48 hours, you should not drink any alcohol or take any painkillers. You can apply ice to relieve the pain and inflammation.
Does Kybella Have Any Side Effects?
Swelling and pain mean the injections are working. Both will subside over time. Don’t worry if you have small bruises or puffiness in the area.
Some numbness is also common in some patients. If you have excessive numbness or trouble swallowing, call the doctor immediately. You shouldn’t have excessive swelling or pain in future sessions.
How Many Sessions Does Kybella Take?
Most people have more than one Kybella session. In fact, they usually have two sessions, sometimes three. Doctors recommend waiting at least 6-8 weeks before having a second treatment. Kybella treatments take time. Most people start seeing results at the end of the first treatment and up to six weeks after! And most see a 10-20% fat reduction in the area treated!
Is Kybella Right For Me?
Let Us Help You!
Our office can provide you will helpful information, schedule a free consultation, and answer any questions you might have about our other procedures.
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