Kybella Injections Denver ! Kybella is an injectable medication designed specifically for the area known to many as the dreaded “double chin.” Technically, this area is called the submental region. It lies beneath the chin and is often considered a trouble spot.
Kybella was approved by the FDA in April 2015. Prior to its approval, there were two clinical trials that included over 1,000 participants.
A difficult area to treat, the submental region has a tremendous effect on appearance. It is often resistant to exercise and diet changes, and problems in the area are usually a direct result of genetics and age. Treatment was previously only possible through liposuction or other surgical treatments. A nonsurgical alternative to combat the submental region with permanent results is finally available.
Kybella’s main ingredient, deoxycholic acid, dissolves subcutaneous fat. Deoxycholic acid attacks the cell membrane (protective layer of the cell) and causes lysis (cell death). This is not a new phenomenon. The human body, as well as ox, sheep, goats, dogs, and rabbits have always produced and used deoxycholic acid. Our bodies use deoxycholic acid in the intestines for digestion. The acid is used for the breakdown and absorption of fats.
Once Kybella has dissolved specific fat cells, there is no regeneration of the cell. These subcutaneous fat cells have been permanently dissolved. The “double chin” will not reappear. This process of facial contouring is a long-term solution and alternative to surgical procedures.
Kybella is an injectable medication made from deoxycholic acid. It is used to destroy and dissolve fat cells, specifically in the submental region (under the chin).
Kybella is made by Kythera Pharmaceuticals.
As with any medication, there are always risks and side effects. Since Kybella is a permanent solution, it requires careful consideration by a professional. Not all patients are good candidates.
If you live in the Denver area, you may be a good candidate for Kybella. A good candidate has moderate to severe subcutaneous fat in the submental region.
You may not be a good candidate if you have a prior history of scarring, skin laxity (looseness), dysphagia, facial neuropraxia, thyromegaly, cervical lymphadenopathy, pronounced submandibular glands, or prominent platysmal bands.
Please discuss these conditions prior to treatment with your health care provider.
Pretreatment with oral analgesics and topical or injectable anesthetics, such as lidocaine, is highly recommended. A cold press prior to and following injections is also recommended to minimize discomfort.
After your consultation in our Denver Injectables Office, the treatment generally takes 15 to 30 minutes.
A white marking pencil will be used to map out the anatomy of your submental region. An adhesive marking grid will be attached to the treatment area. Dots are indicated in the grid to ensure proper distancing of injections.
Most patients can expect around 20 painless injections under the chin.
Kybella results are permanent. Once a fat cell is destroyed it cannot regenerate, therefore it cannot store or accumulate fat in the area again.
If you weigh the costs over time, it ends up being less expensive than Botox and Juvederm treatments because you never have to repeat future injections. Once the fat cells are destroyed they will not return.
Patients should always expect bruising and some swelling during the procedure. A week of downtime is recommended, as some patients require more time than others. Do not have injections before a big event!
Most patients only experience mild swelling, but statistically one percent of patients will experience severe swelling described as a “bull frog” appearance.
Most patients go through a course of about 2 to 4 treatment cycles that are spaced around 6 to 8 weeks apart. Once the desired results are achieved, there is no need for future injections.
The cells do not regenerate, therefore more injections should not be necessary unless further treatment is desired and/or recommended for enhanced contouring.
Side effects might include, but are not limited to, soreness at the injection sites, bruising, bleeding, swelling, pain, numbness, erythema, and induration.
Yes. Do not use Kybella while using antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications. Consult your physician. Do not stop any medications without your physician’s consent.
Avoid fish oil, flax seed oil, multivitamins, NSAIDs (including Ibuprofen), and alcohol at least 3 days before injections. Consult with your physician about stopping aspirin, Coumadin, or other blood-thinning medications. These medications increase the risks of bruising and should be stopped about 7 days before your injections, if possible.
Some over-the-counter remedies that help reduce bruising include Arnica Montana and Bromelain. Arnica Montana should be taken at least 2 days before receiving injections. Three tablets are usually placed under the tongue. Bromelain is a substance found in pineapples and helps prevent bruising. Some patients find it beneficial to eat pineapple or drink pineapple juice 2 days before receiving injections.
Following treatment, you can use cold compresses on the skin to minimize swelling. Direct skin contact with ice should be avoided. Reduce your UV exposure, and wear SPF 30 or higher sunscreen for at least a week following treatments. Report any concerns or questions immediately.
Kybella is a permanent solution. Although side effects are rare, they are possible. Please discuss all concerns with your health care provider during consultation.
Kybella costs $500 per vial. Most patients will spend around $3,000 for complete resolution of the submental fat.