Submental fullness/fat, or the “double chin” look is increasingly becoming an area of concern for many patients. The popularity of taking “selfies” with smartphones has played a role in drawing attention to an area where patients had not really been aware of, but which now causes many to be more self conscious. Traditionally, the only effective options have been surgical (removing the fat) or with liposuction. While these can achieve great results, the need for surgery (along with accompanied operative anxiety), the long recovery time, potential for contour irregularities, and need for secondary surgeries have dissuaded many patients from pursuing this.
Now, with the introduction of Kybella (Dexoxycholic Acid), a recently FDA approved injection, a nonsurgical treatment option is now available to those who are apprehensive or don’t want surgery. Dr. Kenneth Yu Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery is among the first practices in San Antonio to offer this groundbreaking treatment option. Dr. Yu was hand selected by Kythera (the manufacturer for Kybella) to be on their Speaker Bureau. As an expert in Kybella injections, Dr. Yu is part of a select team from Kythera charged with giving educational presentations to teach fellow cosmetic providers.
Kybella is indicated for patients with moderate to severe convexity of fullnesss associated with submental fat in adults. An elegant and defined neck profile can help one look younger, enhance one’s self-esteem, improve one’s mood and become less self-conscious. Patients with good skin elasticity seeking to improve their neck contour are good candidates for Kybella. Kybella can be an excellent option for those patients who don’t want surgery (whether due to underlying health conditions or apprehension about going to the surgical suite).
Kybella is an injection treatment that will require a series of sessions, ranging anywhere from two to six, depending on each individual’s response. Since the treatment is an injection, common side effects include bruising, swelling, and discomfort. Some less common reactions may include sensation of difficulty swallowing, firmness, and numbness, which all resolved in the FDA trials.
Kybella injections are performed in Dr. Yu’s office. Dr. Yu will administer local anesthesia that will make the injection comfortable. Expect swelling the first day after treatment, which will slowly resolve over the course of next three to 10 days. Patients will see Dr. Yu every 4-6 weeks to determine the response.
*This content was reviewed by Dr. Kenneth Yu, a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in head and neck surgery (otolaryngology). His practice — Dr. Kenneth Yu Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery — proudly serves the San Antonio and Austin communities.
