What Is Mesotherapy/Kybella?
Kybella (Mesotherapy) is an FDA-approved non-surgical injectable treatment that breaks down fat cells in the treatment area (commonly under the chin) for a slimming effect.
This treatment is most commonly used to treat submental fat, or fat underneath the chin (double chin). Injecting Kybella under the chin leads to an improved profile. Exercise and diet can be helpful to some extent, but due to genetics, age some people are still left with submental fat.
Kybella is composed of a chemical called Deoxycholic Acid, which is naturally found in the body. The purpose of Deoxycholic Acid is to break down fat cells by speeding up the body’s process of breaking down fat stores. If a healthy lifestyle is maintained, this treatment can be permanent.
What Does the Course of Treatment Look Like and What Can I Expect?
Treatment typically involves 3-6 treatments performed about 4-6 weeks apart. One treatment session typically takes about 30-60 minutes. The treatment area is typically numbed with topical anesthetic and cleaned. Then several superficial injections are placed in the desired treatment area. Treatment is minimally painful, and optimal results can be expected in about 12 weeks. Treatment plan is tailored specifically to each patient.
Can I Expect Any Side Effects?
First Treatment: Days 1-2 after treatment, significant soreness is to be expected. From days 3-7 moderate swelling, or “bullfrog” effect is noted. Between weeks 2-4, bruising, numbness and mild swelling are expected. No visible reduction of fat in the treatment area as of yet.
Treatment 2: Similar symptoms as the first treatment cycle, but slightly less severe. Mild improvement visible to the treatment area.
Treatments 3-6: Symptoms are mild and typically improve with each subsequent treatment. Significant improvement is seen to the treatment area.
Are There Any Restrictions Following Treatment?
Following treatment, hot tubs and sitting water are to be avoided for 2 weeks. Working out/heavy activity should be avoided for about 48 hours. It is recommended to ice down the area following treatment as tenderness may persist for 1-2 weeks.
Which Areas of the Body Can Be Treated with Kybella?
- Double chin – submental fat (most commonly treated area)
- Jaw – Jowels
- Abdomen – love handles
- Lower back – flanks
- Upper back – bra strap area
- Legs – inner and outer thighs
- Eyes – lower lid pads
