Kybella Body Contouring is a popular choice for individuals aiming to enhance their body shape. This article explores the effectiveness of Kybella, a non-surgical treatment, in redefining body contours and reducing unwanted fat.
Kybella Body Contouring: What is it and How Does it Work?
Kybella is an injectable drug used to reduce fat under the chin and contour the area around the chin and neck. When injected into the treatment area, Kybella contains deoxycholic acid, which destroys fat cells.
- Kybella was approved by the FDA in 2015 for improving the appearance of fat under the chin.
- The active ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids fat digestion.
- It permanently destroys fat cells when injected into subcutaneous fat under the chin.
- Multiple treatments are required over several months for optimal results
- The most common side effects are swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, and redness at the injection site
- Kybella should not be injected into other areas of the body besides under the chin
What Areas of the Body Can Kybella Treat?
Kybella is specifically approved for fat reduction under the chin area and contouring the “double chin.” It should not be used to treat other parts of the body.
- Kybella is only FDA-approved for treating submental fullness under the chin.
- Using it for fat reduction or body contouring in other body areas is considered an off-label use.
- There needs to be more evidence that Kybella works effectively or safely in other areas.
- Only proven safe and effective in clinical trials for reducing submental fat.
- This can lead to asymmetrical or unnatural-looking fat loss in other areas
- Safer proven alternatives like liposuction exist for treating different body areas
How Long do Kybella Results Last?
Results from Kybella fat reduction under the chin are permanent because the treatment destroys fat cells. However, lifestyle factors affect how long the contouring effects last.
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- Kybella results are permanent because it destroys submental fat cells
- Fat cells do not typically regrow after being destroyed by Kybella
- Lifestyle habits like weight gain can diminish results over time
- Maintaining your weight helps sustain Kybella treatment results
- Additional touch-up treatments may eventually be needed
- Most patients enjoy permanent submental contouring for 1-2 years
- Small touch-up injections can sustain the results long-term
What are the Side Effects of Kybella Injections?
Common temporary side effects from Kybella include swelling, bruising, numbness, discomfort, and redness under the chin where the injections occurred. Serious side effects are rare when used correctly.
- The most common side effects are swelling, bruising, pain and numbness for several days.
- These typically resolve on their own after 1-2 weeks
- Headaches, swelling under the jawline and nerve injury are also possible
- Serious side effects like injection site ulceration or marginal mandibular nerve paralysis are infrequent
- Using icepacks, OTC pain medications can manage most side effects
- Avoiding excess injections into deep neck tissues reduces complication risks
- Most patients tolerate the injections very well with minimal downtime
How Many Kybella Treatments Will I Need to See Results?
Most Kybella patients require 2-4 treatment sessions spaced at least 1 month apart to achieve optimal fat reduction under the chin. Some may need up to 6 sessions for significant contouring.
- Aesthetic providers typically recommend 2-4 Kybella treatments
- They are spaced at least 1 month apart for proper recovery
- Each session requires about 15-20 minutes
- The number of treatments depends on each patient’s unique anatomy
- More treatments are needed for more significant amounts of submental fat
- Touch-ups may be required years later to maintain the contour
- Many see noticeable improvements by the 2nd or 3rd session
How Much Does Kybella Body Contouring Cost?
The typical Kybella body Contouring Cost ranges from AED 1,500 to AED 2,300 per treatment session, depending on your provider and the amount of vials needed. Many offer discounted packages for multiple sessions.
| Number of Treatment Sessions | Average Cost (AED) |
| 1 | AED 1,500 – AED 2,300 |
| 2 | AED 3,000 – AED 4,600 |
| 3 | AED 4,500 – AED 6,900 |
| 4 | AED 6,000 – AED 9,200 |
| 5 or more | AED 7,500 – AED 11,500 |
Here are some factors that can affect the cost of Kybella body contouring surgery in Dubai:
- The extent of treatment needed: The more fat you have that needs to be removed, the more treatment sessions you will need, and the higher the total cost of treatment will be.
- The clinic or practitioner you choose: Clinics and practitioners in more upscale locations may charge more for Kybella body contouring treatments.
- The practitioner’s experience: More experienced practitioners may charge more for their services.
- The clinic’s location: Clinics in more expensive areas of Dubai may charge more for Kybella body contouring treatments.
How is Kybella different from other fat-reduction procedures?
Kybella only targets localised fat under the chin liposuction, which removes fat from large areas. It also permanently destroys fat cells versus noninvasive fat and cellulite treatments that provide temporary results.
| # of Treatments | Timing | Factors |
| Typically 2-4 | At least 1 month between | Amount of submental fat |
| Maybe up to 6 | Each session ~15 mins | Provider assessment of individual needs |
| Additional touch-ups later | Takes 2-3 months to see the final results | Patient satisfaction and aesthetic goals |
Multiple treatments spaced apart are usually required for optimal Kybella results. The table conveys the range of sessions needed and factors that determine the ideal number.
What Can I Expect During and After the Kybella Procedure?
The Kybella procedure takes about 15-20 minutes per session. Most patients experience manageable swelling and numbness under the chin for 1-2 weeks as the destroyed fat is eliminated. Avoiding touching or massaging the treated area during recovery is essential.
- The speedy, in-office procedure with no anaesthesia
- Multiple injections were administered under the chin using small needles
- The initial injection can cause a burning sensation
- Swelling is joint for up to 14 days afterwards
- Bruising, numbness, pain, and redness are also expected
- Avoid massaging or manipulating the treated area
- Return to routine immediately but strenuous exercise
- Full results will be visible 2-3 months after the final session
Are Kybella Injections Painful? Tips for Managing Discomfort
Kybella injections cause a mild burning sensation initially. While tolerable, your provider can use numbing cream or cool packs to reduce treatment discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medications also alleviate residual soreness during recovery.
- Kybella shots produce a temporary burning feeling
- Sensation dissipates quickly after the injection
- Numbing cream cool packs are used to minimise discomfort
- Patients rate pain around 4 on a scale of 1-10
- Managing anxiety with controlled breathing helps
- Use OTC pain relievers to treat residual soreness
- Avoid alcohol before or after to prevent increased pain
How to Maintain and Enhance Kybella Treatment Results
Sustaining a stable body weight through healthy eating and exercise helps maintain Kybella contouring results long-term. Combining Kybella with skin tightening treatments can also further enhance submental rejuvenation.
- Keeping weight stable prevents fat regain under the chin
- Build muscle tone in the neck with targeted exercises
- Non-invasive skin tightening like Ultherapy can be synergistic
- Sun protection stops new sun damage to delicate neck skin
- Drinking plenty of water supports healthy skin elasticity
- Schedule regular touch-up Kybella injections as needed
- Visit providers as soon as some fat recurs for optimal upkeep
Kybella Body Contouring offers a promising solution for those seeking to improve their body aesthetics without surgery. Its ability to target specific fat-reduction areas makes it a sought-after choice for achieving a more defined and attractive silhouette.
Dr Shehzadi Tasneem Sultan, a renowned plastic surgeon, excels in body contouring and facial rejuvenation. Her distinguished career, marked by a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from Allama Iqbal Medical College and a Fellowship in Plastic Surgery from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Pakistan, has led her to prestigious roles across the UK and Dubai. Dr Sultan’s expertise extends to a wide array of aesthetic procedures, including Botox, liposuction, and paediatric plastic surgery, all underpinned by her commitment to natural results and patient safety.
Embrace the opportunity to enhance your natural beauty with Dr Sultan’s expert care. Book a consultation today to explore a personalised treatment plan that aligns with your unique aesthetic goals.
