If you're looking for a non-surgical solution to stubborn pockets of fat, Kybella might be exactly what you need. Whether it's a double chin or small areas of pinchable fat elsewhere on the body, Kybella offers an effective, FDA-approved option for improving your contours without the downtime or invasiveness of surgery.

Before you book your appointment, here’s everything you need to know about Kybella — from how it works to what you can expect during and after your treatment.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable designed specifically to target and improve the appearance of submental fat — commonly known as a double chin. It contains a man-made form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat.

When injected into the treatment area, Kybella works by destroying the membranes of the fat cells. Once the cells are destroyed, they can no longer store or accumulate fat. Over the next six to eight weeks, your body’s natural healing and elimination processes gradually reduce or eliminate the fat deposits in the area.

The result is a noticeable improvement in the contour and appearance of the treated area, with a slimmer, more defined profile.

Where Can Kybella Be Used?

Although Kybella was initially approved for treating submental fullness (the double chin), it can also be used off-label in other areas where small pockets of fat can be pinched. Some popular off-label treatment areas include:

• Abdomen
• Flanks (Love Handles)
• Arms
• Inner Thighs
• Bra Fat
• Banana Rolls (Under the Buttocks)
• Lower Abdomen
• Legs

Essentially, if you can pinch it, you can Kybella it! It’s important to note that Kybella is ideal for smaller areas of stubborn fat. It is not intended for significant fat reduction across large areas or for patients who may be better candidates for liposuction or other surgical options.

Who is a Good Candidate for Kybella?

Kybella is an excellent option for patients who:

• Have areas of stubborn fat they want to reduce that are not large enough to require surgical treatment
• Are looking for a non-surgical solution without incisions or significant downtime
• Understand that swelling is a normal part of the healing process
• Are willing to wait six to eight weeks between treatments to see the full results
• Want to improve the contour of specific areas without undergoing invasive procedures
• During your consultation, a provider will assess your goals and anatomy to determine if Kybella is the right option for you. Custom treatment plans are created for each patient, including customized pricing based on the number of sessions and areas being treated.

What to Expect During Your Kybella Treatment

The Kybella treatment process is relatively simple and straightforward:

Consultation

Before your treatment, you’ll meet with a provider to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and map out the treatment areas.

Preparation

On the day of treatment, the provider will cleanse the skin and may mark the injection sites for accuracy. 

Injection Process

Using a fine needle, your provider will inject Kybella directly into the targeted fat deposits. The number of injections will vary based on the area and the size of the treatment zone.

Post-Treatment Care

After your session, you’ll likely experience swelling, which is a normal part of the healing process. Most swelling subsides within two weeks, though some patients may notice mild swelling and numbness to the touch lasting up to eight weeks. Mild tenderness, bruising, or a feeling of firmness in the treated area is also common and typically resolves within a few days to a couple of weeks.

How Many Kybella Sessions Will You Need?

While results can vary, most patients typically need three or more sessions spaced about six to eight weeks apart to achieve their desired results. Some may require fewer sessions, while others may benefit from additional treatments depending on the amount of fat and the response to the injections. Because Kybella works gradually as your body metabolizes the destroyed fat cells, patience is key. You’ll notice your final results several weeks after your last session.

What Results Can You Expect?

In clinical trials reviewed by the FDA, patients showed significant improvements in the treated areas. Even patients who gained weight after Kybella injections did not experience a full return of fat to the treated area, specifically the submental (double chin) area.

That said, maintaining a stable weight is important to help preserve your results over time. A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and balanced nutrition, can support the best long-term outcomes. It’s important to remember that while Kybella reduces fat cells in the treated areas, it does not prevent new fat from forming elsewhere if overall weight is gained.

Important Things to Know Before Your Kybella Treatment

Here are some important points to keep in mind before scheduling your Kybella session:

You Will Have Swelling

Swelling is a normal and expected part of the Kybella process. Plan your appointments accordingly and allow at least eight weeks between your treatment and any major events, vacations, or photo opportunities.

Multiple Sessions May Be Needed

Most patients require a series of treatments for optimal results. Your provider will help create a customized plan during your consultation.

Results Take Time

Kybella works gradually as your body processes the destroyed fat cells, and you can expect to see an improvement each round.

Temporary Side Effects Are Normal

Common side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, and numbness/tenderness in the treated area. These usually resolve on their own within a few days to a few weeks.

Customized Pricing Is Available

Because every treatment plan is tailored to the individual, customized pricing is provided based on the number of areas treated and the number of sessions recommended.

Ready to Schedule Your Kybella Consultation?

If you’re tired of stubborn fat that just won’t budge with diet and exercise, Kybella could be the solution you’ve been looking for. With FDA approval, proven results, and a non-surgical approach, it’s an excellent option for patients seeking a more defined, contoured look in targeted areas. Request an appointment to visit us at NM Aesthetics in Arlington, VA or call (571) 310-3223 to schedule your consultation!