Kybella Side Effects: What to Expect and How to Minimize Them

Tired of a stubborn double chin? You’re not alone. Many people are self-conscious about submental fat–the technical term for excess fat below the chin–and it can be frustratingly resistant to diet and exercise. One popular solution is Kybella , an FDA-approved injectable treatment that reduces submental fullness. 

While Kybella has been shown to be safe and effective  in clinical studies, like any cosmetic procedure, it carries the risk of a few side effects. Here, we’re addressing the common concerns we hear about Kybella, with the aim of helping you make the most informed decision!

What is Kybella?

Kybella is an injectable fat loss treatment developed by Allergan, the makers of Botox . It’s the only FDA-approved injectable specifically designed to address submental fullness.

The active ingredient in Kybella is a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a substance naturally produced by the body to break down fat. When injected into the submental area, Kybella destroys fat cells, leading to a gradual reduction in submental fullness. It’s important to note that Kybella is not a weight loss solution and is specifically designed to treat submental fat.

Kybella results are semi-permanent. The destroyed fat cells will not return, but new ones can accumulate over time if you put on weight. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help minimize the return of a double chin.

Common Side Effects of Kybella

While Kybella is generally well-tolerated, it’s essential to be aware of the possible side effects. They include:

• Injection site reactions: Swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness and hardness at the injection site are common and typically subside within a few weeks.
• Other side effects: Headache and nausea may occur.

These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

Serious Side Effects of Kybella

While rare, more serious side effects have been known to occur  after Kybella injections. Often the result of poor injection technique, they include:

• Allergic reactions: Like any injectable treatment, there’s a risk of allergic reactions, although it’s uncommon.
• Hair loss: Some people with beards have reported hair loss in the area around the injection site.
• Nerve injury: If injected too close to the marginal mandibular nerve, Kybella can cause facial muscle weakness, an uneven smile or difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). In clinical trials, these side effects resolved on their own.
• Ulcers: Ulcers may develop if the injections are too superficial.
• Necrosis: Tissue death (necrosis) at the injection site is a rare but serious complication.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Discuss these risks with your injector before undergoing Kybella treatment and be sure to inform them of any known allergies.

How to Minimize Kybella Side Effects

To help minimize the risk of side effects, the best thing you can do is choose a qualified healthcare provider such as a plastic surgeon or qualified aesthetician with experience administering deoxycholic acid injections. They’ll assess your medical history, develop a treatment plan and expertly administer your injections in a way that minimizes your risk of serious side effects. 

So, how to have the smoothest experience possible? The topical numbing cream used during your appointment will help reduce discomfort for a few hours. Beyond that, you can take several steps at home to manage the most common side effects of Kybella. They include:

• Ice packs: Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the treatment area can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate pain and discomfort.
• Avoid strenuous activity: It’s advisable to avoid strenuous activity for a few days after the treatment to minimize swelling.

Can I Get Kybella if I am Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

No, Kybella is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The effects of Kybella on fetal development and breast milk are unknown. It’s important to prioritize the health of both you and your baby. Please wait until after you have finished breastfeeding to consider Kybella treatment!   

Alternatives to Kybella

While Kybella is a popular option for addressing submental fullness, it’s not the only solution available. Several other cosmetic treatments ranging from non-invasive to surgical can also help reduce the appearance of a double chin.

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting  is a non-invasive procedure that uses a cooling technology to freeze and destroy fat cells. It’s FDA-approved for submental fat reduction (along with sculpting the abdomen, flanks, thighs and upper arms) and offers a less invasive alternative to Kybella injections. CoolSculpting typically requires multiple treatment sessions for optimal results.

Side effects include redness, bruising, swelling, pain and numbness at the treatment area. In rare cases, paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) can occur, where the treated fat bulges instead of shrinking.

Ultherapy

This treatment uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. While primarily used for skin tightening, Ultherapy can also improve the appearance of a double chin by addressing skin laxity.

The most common side effects of Ultherapy include redness, swelling, tingling and tenderness at the treatment area. Some patients may experience temporary numbness or discomfort.

Dermal Fillers

While not a direct treatment for submental fat, dermal fillers  can indirectly improve the appearance of a double chin. By enhancing the jawline and creating a more defined angle, fillers can temporarily help reduce the appearance of fullness under the chin. However, it’s important to note that fillers do not reduce fat.

Side effects of dermal fillers include swelling, bruising, redness and tenderness at the injection site. In rare cases, more serious complications such as infection, allergic reactions or migration of the filler can occur.   

Liposuction

This surgical procedure involves suctioning away excess fat from the submental area. It can be performed alone or in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures. Like any form of plastic surgery, liposuction requires downtime and carries associated risks. Side effects include swelling, bruising, pain and temporary numbness. More serious risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots and uneven results.

Is Kybella Right for You?

Kybella can be an effective option for reducing submental fat, but it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as an active skin infection or bleeding disorder, you may not be a suitable candidate. It’s essential to disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare provider during the consultation.

Considering Kybella? Schedule a consultation  with a qualified healthcare provider. They can assess your suitability for the treatment and address any concerns you may have. Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.