Treatment Overview
Kybella (deoxycholic acid) is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to destroy fat cells beneath the chin, permanently eliminating submental fullness commonly known as a "double chin." Developed by Allergan/AbbVie, Kybella uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid -- a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
At Suncare Medical Clinic, our licensed medical professionals use Kybella to address stubborn submental fat with permanent results -- sculpting a more defined jawline and neck profile without surgery, general anesthesia, or significant downtime.
| Duration | 15–30 minutes per session |
|---|---|
| Sessions | Typically 2–4 sessions (up to 6), spaced at least 4 weeks apart |
| Results | Permanent fat cell destruction |
| Downtime | Mild to moderate swelling for 3–7 days; minimal activity restrictions |
| Performed By | Licensed medical professionals only |
Who Is This Treatment For?
Kybella is ideal for individuals seeking non-surgical reduction of submental fat and a more defined chin and jawline. You may be a good candidate if you experience:
Not recommended for: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with active infections in the treatment area, those with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), bleeding disorders, or prior surgical procedures to the chin/neck area. A medical consultation is required before treatment.
Key Benefits
Kybella is the only FDA-approved injectable for submental fat. Once fat cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate -- delivering lasting results without surgery.
Achieve a sculpted jawline and chin profile without incisions, general anesthesia, or the risks associated with liposuction surgery.
Each session takes only 15-30 minutes with minimal downtime, allowing you to return to most daily activities shortly after treatment.
All treatments are performed by licensed medical professionals using precise injection techniques and FDA-approved formulations.
Your provider designs a personalized protocol based on your anatomy, goals, and aesthetic concerns -- ensuring natural-looking, proportionate results.
Eliminating a persistent double chin can dramatically improve your profile, helping you look slimmer, more youthful, and more confident.
How It Works: Science & Mechanism
Kybella relies on targeted injectable delivery to permanently reduce submental fat. It was FDA-approved in 2015 as a 10 mg/mL deoxycholic acid injection and is administered as a personalized course of up to six sessions spaced at least one month apart. Understanding the science behind the treatment helps set realistic expectations.
Kybella (Deoxycholic Acid)
Kybella's active ingredient is synthetic deoxycholic acid, a bile acid naturally produced by the body to break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into submental fat, deoxycholic acid disrupts the cell membrane of adipocytes (fat cells), causing cytolysis -- the permanent destruction of the fat cell. The body's natural metabolic processes then gradually clear the destroyed cells over the following weeks. Because the fat cells are physically eliminated, the treated area cannot accumulate fat again, making results permanent.
Adipocyte Apoptosis & Clearance
Following injection, the targeted fat cells undergo controlled apoptosis (programmed cell death). The body's lymphatic system and macrophages naturally process and eliminate the cellular debris over 4-6 weeks. This gradual clearance process produces smooth, progressive results rather than abrupt changes.
Collagen Stimulation & Skin Tightening
Kybella also stimulates a controlled inflammatory response that triggers neocollagenesis -- the production of new collagen fibers. This contributes to improved skin tightness and texture in the treated area, complementing the fat reduction effect.
Treatment Procedure
Medical Consultation & Assessment
Your provider evaluates your submental fat, skin elasticity, facial anatomy, and medical history. Treatment goals are discussed and a customized plan is created. Photographs may be taken for progress tracking.
Treatment Area Preparation
The treatment area is cleaned and marked with a precise injection grid pattern. A topical numbing cream or ice may be applied to maximize comfort during the procedure.
Injection Administration
Multiple small injections of deoxycholic acid are administered in a grid pattern under the chin. Each injection is carefully placed for even distribution throughout the submental fat.
Post-Injection Monitoring
Your provider monitors you briefly after treatment to ensure comfort and address any immediate concerns. Ice packs may be applied to minimize swelling.
Aftercare Instructions
Detailed post-treatment care guidelines are provided. Swelling is expected and indicates the treatment is actively working. A follow-up appointment is scheduled for your next session.
Follow-Up Sessions
Kybella typically requires 2-4 sessions (up to 6) spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Progress is evaluated at each visit and the plan is adjusted as needed.
Results Timeline
| Timeline | Expected Results |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Swelling, mild bruising, and tenderness at the injection site (this is normal and expected) |
| Week 1–2 | Swelling gradually subsides; numbness and firmness may persist |
| Week 4–6 | Visible reduction in submental fullness; fat cells are being cleared by the body |
| After 2–3 Sessions | Noticeable improvement in chin profile and jawline definition |
| After Full Treatment Course | Optimal results achieved -- permanent fat reduction with improved contour and skin tightness |
| Long-Term | Results are permanent as long as a stable weight is maintained |
Safety, FDA Approval & Medical Standards
Kybella (deoxycholic acid) received FDA approval in April 2015 for the reduction of moderate to severe submental fat in adults. It is the only injectable treatment with this specific FDA indication. Clinical trials involving over 1,600 patients demonstrated its safety and efficacy, with the majority of patients experiencing measurable fat reduction after 2-4 treatment sessions.
At Suncare Medical Clinic, all Kybella treatments are performed exclusively by licensed medical professionals with specialized training in injectable procedures. We maintain the highest standards of safety, hygiene, and patient care.
Common Side Effects
The following side effects are common and typically resolve within 1-2 weeks:
Medical Disclaimer: Kybella is a medical procedure that must be performed by licensed healthcare professionals. Results may vary from person to person. The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Rare but serious side effects may include nerve injury in the jaw (leading to an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness), trouble swallowing, or injection site tissue damage. A thorough medical consultation is required before treatment. Individual results are not guaranteed.
Post-Treatment Care
Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the treated area for 15-20 minutes at a time during the first 24-48 hours to help manage swelling and discomfort.
Do not massage, rub, or apply pressure to the treated area for at least 72 hours. Avoid tight clothing or accessories around the chin and neck.
Avoid intense exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that increase blood flow to the face for 48-72 hours post-treatment to minimize swelling and bruising.
Protect the treated area from direct sun exposure and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and hot baths for at least one week.
Refrain from aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and other blood-thinning supplements for 24-48 hours after treatment to reduce bruising risk. Consult your provider before stopping prescription medications.
Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments so your provider can assess progress, monitor healing, and plan subsequent treatment sessions for optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Kybella (deoxycholic acid) is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to destroy fat cells under the chin (submental fat). It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in April 2015 and is manufactured by Allergan, an AbbVie company. Clinical trials involving over 1,600 patients demonstrated its safety and efficacy for reducing moderate to severe submental fullness.
Most patients require 2-4 treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to achieve their desired results. Some individuals with greater submental fullness may need up to 6 sessions. The number of sessions depends on the amount of fat present and your aesthetic goals. Your provider will create a personalized treatment plan during your initial consultation and adjust it based on your progress.
Yes. Once Kybella permanently destroys fat cells under the chin, those cells can no longer store or accumulate fat. The body naturally metabolizes and eliminates the destroyed cells. As long as you maintain a stable weight, the results are long-lasting and re-treatment is not expected once you reach your desired chin profile. However, significant weight gain after treatment could cause remaining fat cells in the area to enlarge.
The most common side effects of Kybella include swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness, and areas of hardness at the injection site. Swelling is the most expected response and can last from several days to two weeks -- it actually indicates the treatment is actively breaking down fat cells. Less common but more serious side effects may include nerve injury in the jaw area (which could cause an uneven smile or difficulty with facial muscle movement) and trouble swallowing. All side effects should be reported to your provider promptly.
Mild to moderate discomfort is expected during injection. To minimize pain, your provider applies a topical numbing cream and/or ice to the treatment area before the procedure. Kybella injections may produce a brief stinging or burning sensation that subsides within minutes. After treatment, over-the-counter pain relief and ice packs effectively manage any residual discomfort.
Kybella may not be suitable for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active skin infections in the treatment area, have difficulty swallowing, have bleeding disorders or are on blood-thinning medications, or have had prior surgical or aesthetic treatments to the chin or neck area (such as a neck lift). Patients with thyroid conditions, enlarged thyroid glands, or other medical conditions affecting the treatment area should inform their provider. A thorough medical consultation is required to determine eligibility.