Kybella® (Deoxycholic Acid)

Fat-dissolving injectable for targeted submental fullness

Kybella is an injectable treatment designed to reduce small pockets of fat by permanently destroying fat cells. It is most commonly used under the chin to improve submental fullness and refine the jawline contour.

Common Treatment Areas

Under-chin

(submental) fullness

Jawline contour support

(select candidates)

Other small fat pockets

(select candidates, when appropriate)

How It Works

Kybella contains deoxycholic acid, a molecule that helps break down dietary fat in the body. When injected into targeted fat, it disrupts fat cell membranes so the body can gradually clear the destroyed cells over time.

What to Expect

  • Appointment time: 45-60 minutes
  • Downtime: swelling is expected and can be significant, especially after early sessions
  • Results: gradual over weeks to months as the body clears destroyed fat cells
  • Series: multiple sessions are common
  • Important: Kybella is not reversible

Consultation and Treatment Planning

We’ll evaluate your anatomy and skin elasticity to confirm that Kybella is the best approach. In some cases, other options (including devices or surgical referral) may be more effective depending on the amount of fullness and skin laxity.

Pre-Treatment Recommendations

  •   Timing: Schedule your appointment at least four weeks before any important event.
  • Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours before the injection.
  • Avoid blood-thinning supplements (as medically appropriate) for several days prior
  • Skin Cleanliness: Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin for proper assessment and injection planning.
  • Eligibility: Clients who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not eligible for treatment.

Aftercare Guidelines

To support optimal results, we typically recommend:

  • Avoid applying pressure, massage or touching to treated areas for the rest of the day.
  • Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours after treatment.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours
  • Avoid heat exposure (sauna, hot yoga) and alcohol for at least 24 hours.


  • Use cold compresses as needed

    

Contact us if you develop facial weakness, difficulty swallowing, or unusual symptoms.

Follow any product-specific guidance from your provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and helpful information about this treatment.

  • Is the fat reduction permanent?

    Destroyed fat cells do not return. However, overall weight changes can affect the area over time.

  • How many treatments will I need?

    It varies by anatomy. Many patients require a series to reach their desired contour.

  • How long will swelling last?

    Swelling is expected. Timing varies, but it can be noticeable for several days and sometimes longer.

  • Is Kybella right for loose skin?

    Kybella reduces fat; it does not reliably tighten skin. We’ll assess elasticity and recommend the best plan.