Is a Kybella Necklift the Right Option?

Millions of people stand in front of the mirror and examine the areas of their body that they have concerns. One of the most common encountered at Carolina Facial Plastics is the neck. Many people cringe when they see an unflattering photo of themselves, where their neck appears to sag or a double chin appears. A cry of “Oh my gosh, is that my chin,” is not an uncommon occurrence after a photo is snapped.

So how can it be improved? Is there anything that can be done? The short answer is yes.

The go-to for most patients is surgery, exercise and/or weight loss. While, yes, all of these are options, sometimes a double chin cannot be diminished through diet and exercise. This kind of fat is stubborn. And while, yes, surgery could certainly solve this problem, there are less invasive options than most people may not know exist. Let’s discuss Kybella, a non-surgical option to treat these concerns.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is a non-surgical injectable used to treat a double chin, sagging neck, or submental fullness. It is comprised of a concentrated form of deoxycholic acid, which occurs naturally within the human body. Commonly found in the liver and gallbladder, deoxycholic acid is secreted into the intestine to aid in breaking down and digesting fat. It also aids in the absorption of vitamins and helps breakdown cholesterol.

Who is Kybella Right For?

Kybella is best for patients that are unhappy with the fullness beneath their chin and in the neck region that is due to excess fat. Kybella is best for younger patients that still have good elasticity to their skin.   After Kybella removes the fat, the skin have contract back onto the new neck and jawline. Older patients or patients that have poor quality of skin are not good candidates for Kybella.

How Does Kybella Work?

Once Kybella is injected, it targets and kills any fat cells with which it comes into contact. It disrupts the cellular membrane of the fat cells, causing the cells to cave in and eventually die. Kybella is directly injected into the area in question, whether it is a double chin or a turkey neck. Multiple, minuscule injections are made over a widespread area. Each time the injections are administered the area will become more defined. Most patients will need 2 to 4 treatment sessions of Kybella.

Is Kybella Painful?

The needles used during a Kybella injection are very small and well tolerated. After injection, the area can remain tender and sore for a few days. The area can become numb that can last a few weeks. The overall pain is well tolerated, but minor pain can linger for a few weeks.

Is There Swelling after a Kybella Injection?

The worst aspect of Kybella injections is the swelling patients can experience. The area can significantly swell for 2-4 days after injections. This swelling can be significant and obvious and patients should plan their lives accordingly.

How Much Does Kybella Cost?

Kybella is priced by the vial, which runs about $700-$800 per vial in Charlotte. How much is used varies from patient to patient. Some patients only require one treatment while others require three or four. Patients generally need one to three vials per treatment and between one to four treatment sessions. As such, the pricing can run anywhere from $700-$9,600. This is assessed and discussed in a consultation with the doctor.

What are Some Contraindications to Kybella Injections?

Sometimes, an enlarged thyroid or lymph nodes can fullness in this area. In this situation, Kybella would not be an appropriate treatment. This is why it is important for patients to have a examination by a qualified physician or like before injections. Kybella should not be used by patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have ever had difficulty swallowing, or have bleeding disorders.

What is the Main Alternative to Kybella?

The main alternative to Kybella is neck liposuction. Neck lipo is a minor surgical procedure than can be done while the patient is awake. The recovery for neck liposuction is some swelling and bruising for a week or two. Patients will need to wear a small wrap around the neck for a week. During a consultation, Dr. Kulbersh can help a patient decide which would be a better option for the needs and concerns. Learn more about Kybella at MyKybella.com.

How Do I Choose a Doctor?

When undergoing any procedure, each patient should make sure to do extensive research on the physician he or she is considering. Prospective patients can research doctors on helpful sites like RealSelf. There is also an open forum to ask questions, relay any concerns and have actual doctors give their opinions and experience. A doctor who specializes in the face and neck would be ideal, as that is their primary focus, meaning they have the most experience working with that area.

When considering a Kybella, I would recommend seeking a consultation with a facial expert. As a double board-certified Charlotte facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Kulbersh has the premier facial plastic surgery practice in the region. To schedule a consultation, contact Carolina Facial Plastics today by filling out the online contact form or calling 704.842.3644.

Next, read 5 Things Everyone Should Do When Preparing for a Facelift.