KYBELLA© in Tampa | Dr. Dallas Buchanan

What is KYBELLA?

Kybella is an FDA approved, non-invasive injectable treatment that is used to dissolve fat cells in small areas that contain excess fat. The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule which is produced by the body for the purpose of absorbing fat.
Kybella has been approved by the FDA to target fat cells in the submental region (underneath the chin) in order to reduce the appearance of a double chin. However, Kybella can work in any area of concern about fatty deposits, but due to financial constraints, it is often best for small areas such as under the chin, anterior and posterior bra rolls, groin or inner thigh gap, banana rolls under the buttocks, or other small areas. This treatment will entail a series of injections and can take 2-4 treatments to produce desired results.

Am I A Good Candidate for Kybella?

Kybella has proved to be a highly effective treatment for melting away fat cells, however, the results can vary greatly from patient to patient. Some patients will only need 1-2 Kybella treatment sessions, while others may need up to six treatments to achieve his or her desired result. Generally, patients can expect anywhere from two to four treatments.

It is also important to remember that while Kybella is highly effective at eliminating fat cells, it does not address loose or excess skin and removal of fat in areas of excess skin might make the excess skin appear worse.

The Procedure and Recovery

Kybella treatments take less than an hour and are performed in your doctor’s office. A very thin needle is injected in a grid-like pattern underneath the chin in order to target specific areas. Multiple treatments will be necessary and are usually scheduled anywhere from six to eight weeks apart.
One of the benefits of Kybella is that downtime is often non-existent. Most normal activities can be resumed immediately following the treatment and side effects are often so minimal, they won’t interfere with everyday life. You may experience a burning sensation immediately after the procedure that will last up to half an hour. Bruising and some significant swelling is normal and should only last a few days.

When Will I See Results?

It’s important to note that results are not immediate with this procedure. In fact, the area will worsen immediately after the treatment due to swelling. This treatment will require a little bit of time to see improvements. Normally, patients will see a reduction in chin fat within 8 to 10 weeks following a treatment. It is important to note, however, that unlike other injectable treatments, the results of Kybella injection are permanent. Once the fat has been destroyed, as long as you maintain a stable weight, the treated area should see good long term results over time.
In order to prolong your results, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and daily practices to delay the natural aging process. Proper sun protection, a daily skincare regimen, and diet and exercise are all lifestyle habits that help keep signs of aging at bay.

Finding the Right Plastic Surgeon

During your search for a potential plastic surgeon, you should only consider a surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Board-certified surgeons spend a minimum of 6-8 years in training after medical school to ensure that they are well-trained in both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.

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