Many patients who visit our Houston practice mention a double chin as one of their main facial concerns. The result of this is a profile that is less defined than most desirable facial features in both women and men. In the past, a double chin caused by stubborn fat was reduced by liposuction. Kybella is an FDA-approved breakthrough, non-surgical procedure that is offered here at Esta Kronberg MD.
What Is Kybella?
A double chin can develop for multiple reasons. The natural aging process and/or weight gain play a role in this. On the other hand, some women and men are genetically predisposed to accumulating fat in the chin area, even when they are not overweight.
The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. Once these fat cells are destroyed they can no longer store or accumulate in the treated area. Dr. Kronberg injects Kybella in a number of locations under the chin to break down this fat and tighten the profile.
How Does Kybella Work?
Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the human body. Its job is to aid in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. That’s the genius behind Kybella — deoxycholic acid doesn’t see a difference between dietary fat and the fat that has taken residence under your chin.
When Dr. Kronberg performs Kybella treatment under the chin, it breaks down the fat cells and your body flushes them from the system. Once they are gone, your body no longer has the storage mechanism for fat. The fat is gone for good and your profile is strikingly tighter. These changes are permanent as long as you refrain from putting on a good deal of extra weight in the future.
Kybella Treatment Before and After
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Who Is A Good Candidate for Kybella?
There are certain areas on the body where fat accumulates and is difficult to target stubborn fat with diet and exercise. Since Kybella works by breaking down fat, it’s perfect for people with pockets of fat under their chin. So, if your main reason for your double chin is fat pushing down the skin, Kybella is a great resource. However, if the sagging under your chin is more due to slackening skin rather than fat accumulation, a neck lift or mid-face lift would probably be a better option to tighten your profile.
How Many Kybella Treatments Will I Need?
In most cases, Dr. Kronberg performs 3 Kybella sessions, but there isn’t a set number. Dr. Kronberg will discuss your goals and how much you want to change your profile and the two of you will decide on a treatment plan. Many patients love their results after just two to four treatments.
What Our Patients Have To Say
I love Dr. Kronberg. She took her time in my consultation and also heard all I had to say! Great Dr. I definitely recommend her. – Remmy M.
“It’s always a pleasant experience visiting Dr. Kronberg. From the ease of scheduling an appointment to the actual visit. She is always very kind and gentle and ready to answer all of your questions to help you achieve the goals you have set. She really cares about you as a person and what is best for you from a medical perspective. She is board certified so I can fully trust her judgment and be confident I am getting the best care.”
How Long Do Kybella Injections Last?
Kybella gets rid of the fat under your chin permanently, and its removal limits the ability for fat to accumulate in the area down the road. Still, if you put on a good deal of the weight you could regain a double chin. There will be some loosening of the skin with aging, but your profile will remain much tighter for the long haul.
Are Kybella Injections Painful?
Dr. Kronberg uses a very fine needle, and most patients equate the feeling of the injections to nothing more than a slight pinprick. Still, if you’d like, we can apply a topical anesthetic before your session.
Side Effects of Kybella Injections
Kybella has some potential side effects, but they have proven to be rare. They include nerve injury in the jaw that can create an uneven smile, trouble swallowing, and some weakness in the surrounding facial muscles. In clinical studies, these side effects are not long-term but do not resolve immediately.
Side effects can include the following:
- Numbness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bruising
- Residual pain
- Hardness in the treatment area
Are There Any Alternative Treatments to Kybella Injections?
Kybella is the only non-invasive option for addressing submental fullness and slimming your profile. A neck lift or mid-facelift are surgical alternatives including liposuction of the chin.
Schedule a Consultation
If you would like to learn more about Kybella treatment, contact us at 713-988-8442 to schedule a consultation at our office in Houston. We proudly serve Houston, Texas, and the surrounding areas.