The history of Kybella® goes back to France in the 1950s. Researchers then were looking for ways to dissolve fat that was causing complications for certain people. Those researchers used a compound, phosphatidylcholine, which they believed to break down fats, that later was combined with deoxycholic acid. But it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it was discovered that the deoxycholic acid was responsible for breaking down fat cells. This acid occurs naturally in the digestive tract. To learn more about Kybella®, contact us today.
What is Kybella®?
Kybella® is a relatively new drug, approved by the FDA in 2015, that dissolves the fat pockets that cause a double chin, also known as submental fat. Kybella® is deoxycholic acid, a prescription medicine used to improve the appearance of a double chin caused by too much under the chin. This injection treatment improves the angle of the neck and is an alternative to surgery.
How Does It Work?
As Kybella® is made from deoxycholic acid, it can help to break down and absorb fats. In short, it works by destroying the fat cells. Once destroyed, these cells can’t store or accumulate fat, so further treatment isn’t expected after you reach your goal. It is injected directly under the chin during a short, convenient treatment. The deoxycholic acid destroys the cell membranes of fat cells. The lymphatic and circulatory systems then clear away the debris; both the destroyed fat cells and the acid are excreted naturally as waste.
What to Expect
Before starting treatment, our specialist will examine the area under and around your chin to determine if Kybella® is right for you. The exact number of treatment sessions will depend on the amount of fat you have under your chin and your desired profile. The effectiveness of treatment depends on the amount of submental fat to be dissolved, as does the number of treatment sessions.
If you’re worried about the appearance of a double chin, consider scheduling a consultation with the staff at The Cosmetic Vein & Laser Center to discuss possible treatment with Kybella®. Contact us today for a consultation in Williamsville, NY.
