In some cases, no matter how dedicated an individual is to a diet and exercise routine, a double chin might persist, making the individual feel insecure or unhappy with his or her appearance. This cosmetic condition is often a result of stubborn fat deposits that exist in or around the jowls, but it can also develop over time due to the normal aging process or genetics. In the past, the only effective way to address this concern was through liposuction. However, now there is a new technology that exists as an alternative to this semi-invasive procedure. It is known as Kybella.
How Does Kybella Work?
Kybella, unlike liposuction, is a non-surgical procedure that is capable of eliminating a double chin and dramatically improve one’s appearance. This innovative treatment is the first and only injectable that has been approved eliminate the appearance of a double chin. How does it work? The Kybella injectable is comprised of deoxycholic acid, a chemical that is used to help absorb fats, which the body naturally produces. When this chemical is directly injected into the tissue under a patient’s chin, the deoxycholic acid destroys the walls of fat cells, which ultimately causes the tissue to slowly dissolve as it is metabolized by the body, allowing the tissue under the chin to achieve a more sculpted appearance.
Every individual is different, but the benefits of Kybella can generally be seen after as few as one or two treatments. In some cases, as many as six treatments might be necessary to receive the maximum benefit. Given that this injectable treatment destroys fat cells in the treated area, the results that Kybella produces are long-lasting and will not require further maintenance treatments.
Ideal Candidates
Both men and women who are unhappy with the appearance of excess fat under their chin can benefit from Kybella. An ideal candidate should be over the age of 18, in good health, and has realistic expectations regarding the results he or she hopes to receive. This treatment is safe for all skin types and ethnicities.
If you have an active infection, are pregnant, or have a bleeding disorder, you might have to postpone this treatment. Those with scarring or stretched, excess skin under their chin might not be good candidates for Kybella.
Potential Complications
Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a safe and effective treatment for eliminating submental fat, complications are rare for patients treated with Kybella. If a patient does experience side effects, they typically include redness, mild swelling, temporary numbness, difficulty swallowing, and excessive bleeding, which tend to resolve within five to seven days.
Kybella Treatment in Westfield
At Burnett Plastic Surgery in Westfield, patients often inquire about their options for eliminating or reducing the appearance of a double chin, which is also known as submental fullness. Men and women might experience this extra fat, regardless of diet and exercise, which can make them appear heavier than they are. At our office, you can have the Kybella treatment performed in approximately 20 minutes. Given its non-invasive nature, you will not have to endure any downtime and will be able to enjoy its results over the course of time.
If you are not an ideal candidate for Kybella, we will work with you to determine a solution that will leave you looking and feeling your best.
Contact our office today at (908) 524-0063 to schedule a consultation with our dedicated plastic surgeon.