Submental fullness is the technical term for what most people call a double chin. Double chins occur when there is an excess amount of fat below the chin and in which the extra layer causes an unsightly chin profile. This common beauty complaint can be caused by genetics, being overweight, or even just the natural aging process. While some people were born with submental fullness, others develop the problem over a period of time. In a survey conducted by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), 67% of people were bothered by or felt self-conscious about having a double chin.
Sometimes the problem can be corrected by losing weight, but in other instances, it can only be treated through cosmetic and/or medical procedures. Many people who have searched for how to get rid of a double chin have discovered Kybella injections as an effective and non-surgical means of eliminating submental fullness.
Exactly what is Kybella? Kybella is a prescription injection that treats submental fullness. It is a popular treatment for those who wish to avoid surgery and want a quick, relatively painless procedure that can be done in their doctor’s office. Kybella injections are made from a synthetic form of a naturally-occurring molecule within the body called deoxycholic acid. This molecule assists in breaking down and absorbing fat.
Once injected, Kybella works to destroy the fat cells under the skin. Once destroyed, the fat cells will not return, as they will no longer be able to store the fat that caused the submental fullness. Your doctor will determine how many injections you will need to eliminate the fat in your chin. Since every chin profile is different, your doctor will customize the course of treatment.
The dermatologist will administer a series of Kybella injections. Your chin profile will determine how many injections you receive. Some people only receive one treatment, while most need anywhere between 2-6 treatments. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an infection, or are taking blood thinners, your dermatologist may decide that this series of treatments is not for you.
At your appointment, the doctor will give you a series of injections under your chin. This usually takes between 15 and 20 minutes. As you progress through your treatments, you will notice a reduction of the fat under the chin as the deoxycholic acid absorbs and destroys the fat in your chin. Some people will also get a tightening effect and notice less laxity and sagging in the area as well.
Recovery time for the procedure is generally short and can last 1-4 weeks. Commonly reported side effects include swelling, numbness, bruising, pain at injection sites, redness and areas of hardness. If you experience more serious side effects, such as nerve damage or trouble swallowing, you should immediately contact your doctor.