Can You Get Rid of a Double Chin Without Surgery?

Many people struggle with submental fat — fat that accumulates under the chin and around the neck — creating the appearance of a double chin. For those who dislike how a double chin changes the shape and appearance of their faces, it can be frustrating to deal with when you can’t necessarily cover it up. KYBELLA® offers a non-surgical solution for eliminating a double chin. This blog will discuss how KYBELLA® works and what results can be achieved.

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What Is KYBELLA®?

KYBELLA® is an injectable cosmetic treatment that is specifically designed to target and get rid of fat under the chin. This FDA-approved treatment is made from deoxycholic acid, which is an acid that naturally occurs in the body and helps in the digestion and uptake of dietary fat. When it is injected into the submental area, KYBELLA® destroys fat cells, which the body then gradually metabolizes and removes through its natural processes. Unlike surgical procedures, KYBELLA® requires no incisions or recovery time, making it a popular option for those seeking a non-invasive solution to reduce a double chin.

How Can KYBELLA® Eliminate a Double Chin?

KYBELLA® works by directly targeting fat cells in the chin area. Once it has been injected into the treatment area, the deoxycholic acid in the injection starts to break down fat cells. As the fat cells get destroyed, they lose their ability to store fat. Eventually, they will be flushed out of the body through the lymphatic system.

However, it is important to note that the treatment will require several sessions spaced about a month apart. Depending on the severity of your submental fat and your desired results, you might need between two to six treatment sessions. Each session will essentially involve making several small injections under the chin and usually takes about 20–30 minutes. During the treatment, you might feel mild discomfort, but most patients describe the experience as a series of small pinches. The good news is that your provider applies a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort.

What Can I Expect After My KYBELLA® Treatment?

One of the most notable advantages of KYBELLA® has to do with the fact that it does not require significant downtime, making it an excellent treatment for those with busy schedules. After the procedure, you may experience some swelling, redness, or bruising in the treated area. However, you don’t have to worry about it since it is a normal part of the process, as your body works on breaking down the fat cells. Swelling, particularly, can last for a few days or weeks, but it will gradually subside as the body heals. In any case, temporary swelling is a small price to pay for the long-term results you are likely to get from the treatment.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Considering that the body needs time to destroy and eliminate fat cells after the treatment, it is not surprising that the results won’t be noticed immediately. In most cases, people see some improvements in their chin contour within four to six weeks. However, since every case is unique, optimal results typically appear after undergoing the recommended number of treatment sessions. Since each session seeks to target additional fat cells, the treated area will most likely become slimmer and more defined over the course of the treatment plan. It is important to note that the destroyed fat cells will not grow back, meaning that there will be no need for maintenance treatments once the desired results have been achieved.

Am I a Good Candidate for KYBELLA®?

KYBELLA® is suitable for people who are bothered by moderate to severe fat beneath the chin and are looking for a non-surgical alternative to liposuction and other more invasive treatments. However, it is important to note that KYBELLA® is not a weight loss solution, and therefore, the treatment is most suitable for people who are already at or near their ideal weight. However, since KYBELLA® only targets fat cells and does not tighten the skin, it may not be suitable for people with loose skin or sagging in the neck area.

Want to Learn More About KYBELLA® in Tysons Corner, VA?

If you are looking to recontour your double chin without surgery, NOVA Plastic Surgery and Dermatology can help. Dr. Nukta and his team offer KYBELLA® and other MedSpa treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation. Call (703) 215-9152 or fill out our online contact form to book your consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does KYBELLA eliminate a double chin without surgery?

KYBELLA contains deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that breaks down fat. When injected under the chin, it destroys fat cells, which are then gradually eliminated by the body through the lymphatic system over the following weeks.

How many KYBELLA treatments are typically needed?

Most patients require between two and six treatment sessions, each spaced approximately one month apart. The exact number depends on the amount of submental fat present and the patient's individual goals and desired outcome.

When will I see results from KYBELLA treatment?

Since the body needs time to break down and eliminate the destroyed fat cells, results are not immediate. Most patients begin to see improvements in their chin contour within four to six weeks, with optimal results visible after completing all recommended sessions.

Are KYBELLA results permanent?

Yes. The fat cells destroyed by KYBELLA cannot grow back, meaning that once the desired results have been achieved, no further maintenance treatments are required. The improvement to your chin profile is a lasting outcome.

Who is not a good candidate for KYBELLA?

KYBELLA is not recommended as a weight loss solution and works best for patients who are already near their ideal weight. Patients with significant loose skin or sagging in the neck area may not achieve their desired results with KYBELLA alone and may benefit more from a surgical approach.