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The results of Kybella may last for years because the fat cells are completely destroyed.
Kybella is the only U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved prescription drug for moderate to severe submental fat or a double chin.
The active ingredient of Kybella is deoxycholic acid that normally helps in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. Thus, Kybella targets a double chin by destroying the fat cells. Once the fat cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate or accumulate further. Depending on your condition and response, you may receive up to six additional treatment sessions, each set 1 month apart.
The results of Kybella may last for years because the fat cells are completely destroyed.
What is Kybella?
Kybella is a prescription drug indicated to melt the fat under the chin that is also known as a double chin. Kybella comes as liquid injection that needs to be administered subcutaneously (under the skin). It is a nonsurgical option for adults who have too much fat below their chin. The safety of Kybella isn’t established for
- Children under 18 years of age.
- Treatment of fat outside of the submental area (area under the chin).
You should avoid Kybella injection if you have an infection in the submental area.
What to expect before Kybella injection?
Before taking Kybella injection, you should inform your physician
- If you plan to have surgery on your face, neck, or chin.
- About cosmetic treatments on your face, neck, or chin.
- About any medical conditions in or near your neck area.
- If you have trouble swallowing.
- If you have bleeding problems.
- If you have deoxycholic acid allergy.
- If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is unknown if Kybella will harm your unborn baby.
- If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is unknown if Kybella passes into your breast milk.
- About any medicines you take including over the counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements or any blood thinners.
How safe is Kybella injection?
Although Kybella is U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, there are various side effects with the drug, which include:
- Hematoma (injection-site bruising)
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Redness
- Warmth
- Numbness
- Hard skin around the injection site
- Itching
- Headache
- Nausea
If you observe the following side effects, you should immediately seek medical attention:
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Pain or tightness in the face or neck
- Uneven smile
- Face muscle weakness
- Hair loss at the injection site
- Skin necrosis (tissue damage at the injection site)
- Severe bruising
- Ulcers
- Infection
- Open sores with or without pus
You should also intimate the physician if you experience new symptoms during the treatment period.
What will be the cost of Kybella injection?
The cost of each Kybella session is anywhere between $1200 and $1800 on average. This amount may vary depending on
- The number of sessions you take.
- The healthcare provider’s fees.
- Your geographic location.
Because Kybella is a cosmetic procedure, there’s no scope for insurance coverage. Moreover, you must consult a licensed and trained medical practitioner who has the skills and expertise to administer Kybella injection. Additionally, look out for the physician’s experience in treating patients with Kybella.