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An Overview Of KYBELLA Treatment: What It Is And How It Works?

An Overview Of KYBELLA treatment What It Is And How It Works

Are you sick of being embarrassed about the extra fullness under your chin? Do you avoid certain camera angles or hide behind scarves and high-necked clothing? If so, you’re not alone. Many individuals struggle with this issue and the impact it can have on their self-esteem. Luckily, there’s a solution called KYBELLA. 

Whether you’ve tried dieting and exercise or have been considering more invasive options like liposuction, KYBELLA offers a convenient alternative that requires no surgery, minimal downtime, and impressive results. But there are several deliberations you should know first before attempting this treatment. 

What is KYBELLA, And How It Works?

.KYBELLA is an FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to address submental fullness, also known as a double chin. It is a non-surgical procedure that offers an effective solution for individuals seeking to reduce the appearance of excess fat beneath the chin.

Unlike surgical alternatives, KYBELLA is administered through injections, targeting the fat cells directly. Deoxycholic acid, an organic compound that aids in the disintegration and absorption of dietary fat, is a critical component of KYBELLA. Deoxycholic acid, when injected into the submental region, eliminates fat cells, creating a more defined and sculpted jawline.

KYBELLA offers several advantages over traditional surgical procedures, including minimal downtime and a non-invasive approach. It provides a convenient option for individuals looking to improve their chin profile without surgery.

How It Works?

The main component of KYBELLA, deoxycholic acid, makes it so efficient at reducing submental fullness. Deoxycholic acid, a bile acid that occurs naturally, is essential for the body’s breakdown and absorption of dietary fats.

When injected into the submental area, deoxycholic acid disrupts the integrity of fat cell membranes. It targets and destroys the fat cells in the treated area, allowing the body to metabolize and eliminate them over time.

The mechanism of action of deoxycholic acid involves its interaction with the fat cells. It acts as a detergent-like substance, binding to the fat cell membranes and causing disruption. This disruption leads to the breakdown of the fat cell structure and releases the stored fat contents.

Once the fat cells are destroyed, the body’s natural processes take over. The lymphatic system, which eradicates waste and toxins from the body, clears away the remnants of the destroyed fat cells. Over several weeks and months, the body naturally metabolizes and eliminates these fat cell remnants, gradually reducing submental fullness and the appearance of a more sculpted jawline.

Kybella Procedure

The KYBELLA procedure is a straightforward and relatively simple process that involves a series of injections to target and reduce submental fullness. What to anticipate during a KYBELLA therapy session is broken down as follows:

  1. Consultation: Your journey with KYBELLA begins with a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. You will discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and concerns during this consultation. The healthcare professional will assess your suitability for the treatment and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs.
  2. Preparing for the Treatment: Before the procedure, the treatment area will be cleansed, and, if necessary, a topical anesthetic may be spread to minimize discomfort. Your healthcare professional will ensure you are comfortable and ready for the treatment.
  3. Injection Process: Using a fine-gauge needle, your healthcare professional will administer a series of small injections of KYBELLA into targeted areas beneath your chin. The quantity of injections and the amount of KYBELLA used will depend on your treatment plan. The injections are strategically placed to distribute the deoxycholic acid evenly and target the excess fat cells.
  4. Treatment Duration: The injection process typically takes 15-20 minutes. KYBELLA sessions are generally well-tolerated, and most individuals experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.
  5. Post-Treatment Care: Once the injections are complete, your healthcare professional may apply a cold compress or provide specific post-treatment instructions. It’s essential to follow these instructions diligently to optimize your recovery and results.
  6. Recovery and Results: After the KYBELLA treatment, it is common to experience mild swelling, bruising, or redness in the treated area. These adverse effects are usually brief and resolve within a few days to a week. You can typically resume your regular activities immediately following the treatment, as there is minimal downtime associated with KYBELLA.

KYBELLA treatment typically involves sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results. The exact number of treatments required varies based on individual characteristics, such as the amount of submental fullness and your desired outcome.

Not A Weight Loss Treatment

KYBELLA is not intended as a weight loss treatment. KYBELLA is specifically designed to target and reduce submental fullness caused by excess fat beneath the chin. It is not a solution for weight loss or addressing fat in other body areas.

A healthcare provider will evaluate your situation, discuss your goals, and decide whether KYBELLA is the best course of therapy during your appointment. When determining whether you are a good candidate for KYBELLA, they will consider things like the degree of submental fullness, the health of your skin, and your general health.

Have realistic expectations when considering KYBELLA. While the treatment can effectively reduce submental fullness and improve the appearance of the chin and jawline, individual results may vary. It is always advisable to have an open and honest discussion with your healthcare professional to ensure you fully understand the limitations and potential outcomes of the treatment.

Safety

KYBELLA has received FDA approval after rigorous clinical testing, ensuring its safety and efficacy in treating submental fullness. It is essential to have KYBELLA administered by a qualified healthcare professional to minimize risks. Common side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort. 

Rare complications can occur but are typically associated with inexperienced practitioners. A thorough consultation and open communication with your healthcare professional are essential for assessing candidacy and ensuring safety. Following pre and post-treatment instructions is crucial for a safer treatment experience.

Takeaway

If you’re ready to say goodbye to submental fullness and achieve a more defined and contoured chin profile, it’s time to take the next step. Contact Shepherd Integrative Dermatology today and schedule your KYBELLA consultation with our experienced providers of healthcare professionals.

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Dana Aman

PA-C

Board Certified Physician Assistant

Dana is a board-certified Physician Assistant with Sheperd Integrative Dermatology.  Originally from Florida, Dana obtained her undergraduate degree from Florida State University and then went on to earn a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from North Greenville University in Greenville, South Carolina.  After obtaining her advanced degree, Dana completed a rigorous 6-month dermatology training program in California as well as a Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.  After three years of specialized clinical dermatology practice in California, Dana moved to Charleston in 2023.  Dana’s patient care philosophy centers around active listening and shared decision-making. She believes that every patient should be an active participant in their healthcare journey and looks forward to establishing positive patient relationships at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. 

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Amy Jetter

BSN, RN

Amy brings her whole heart to her role on the Sheperd cosmetic team.  A graduate of Elon College and the Medical College of Virginia, Amy has been a board-certified nurse for over 30 years.  Bringing her skills as an ICU nurse into her role in cosmetic patient care, Amy provides a warm, reassuring presence to all her clients, listening to their concerns and collaborating with them in a plan to bring forth and enhance their natural beauty.  A standing member of the American Association of Plastic Surgery Nurses and a past RN trainer in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, Amy offers all types of laser treatments, botox and dermal filler injections, and chemical peels.

Amy Jetter

BSN, RN

Amy brings her whole heart to her role on the Sheperd cosmetic team.  A graduate of Elon College and the Medical College of Virginia, Amy has been a board-certified nurse for over 30 years.  Bringing her skills as an ICU nurse into her role in cosmetic patient care, Amy provides a warm, reassuring presence to all her clients, listening to their concerns and collaborating with them in a plan to bring forth and enhance their natural beauty.  A standing member of the American Association of Plastic Surgery Nurses and a past RN trainer in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, Amy offers all types of laser treatments, botox and dermal filler injections, and chemical peels.

Melissa Mancuso

Body Contouring Specialist

Melissa has six years of experience in body contouring, beginning with her role as the CoolSculpting representative for Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Since joining the Sheperd team, she has received additional training and now offers chemical peels, Vivace micro-needling, and Diamond Glow dermal infusion. She loves helping patients feel good about their bodies and teaching them about how the various cosmetic procedures can help them achieve the results they are seeking.

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Madeline Anderson

PA-C

Maddie is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Lowcountry native. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Clemson University and then went on to earn a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, graduating with highest honors. While in PA school, Maddie served as a Student Representative for the SC Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. After graduation, she completed a six-month advanced dermatology internship here at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. She also completed the Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Maddie has a heart for medical missions and is passionate about patient education. Her free time is shared with her family, her friends, and her two fur babies!

Madeline Anderson

PA-C

Maddie is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Lowcountry native. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Clemson University and then went on to earn a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, graduating with highest honors. While in PA school, Maddie served as a Student Representative for the SC Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. After graduation, she completed a six-month advanced dermatology internship here at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. She also completed the Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Maddie has a heart for medical missions and is passionate about patient education. Her free time is shared with her family, her friends, and her two fur babies!

AnnaKathryn Keiper

DNP, FNP-C

AnnaKathryn completed her Doctorate degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has seven years of experience in dermatology. She has completed additional training in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and functional medicine. She provides skin cancer screenings, surgical removal of skin cancers, treatment of precancerous lesions, extractions of cysts, and the treatment of acne. In the cosmetic domain, she provides laser, filler, and neurotoxin treatments. Certified through the Institute of Functional Medicine, AnnaKathryn has a special focus on wellness, including weight loss and diet consulting. She uses her expertise in this field to create an individualized program to help each of her patients achieve optimal wellness supporting them in maintaining vibrancy and vitality throughout their lifespan.

AnnaKathryn Keiper

DNP, FNP-C

AnnaKathryn completed her Doctorate degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has seven years of experience in dermatology. She has completed additional training in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and functional medicine. She provides skin cancer screenings, surgical removal of skin cancers, treatment of precancerous lesions, extractions of cysts, and the treatment of acne. In the cosmetic domain, she provides laser, filler, and neurotoxin treatments. Certified through the Institute of Functional Medicine, AnnaKathryn has a special focus on wellness, including weight loss and diet consulting. She uses her expertise in this field to create an individualized program to help each of her patients achieve optimal wellness supporting them in maintaining vibrancy and vitality throughout their lifespan.

Allyson Harrell Garrison

PA-C

Ally is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Diplomate of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, their highest rating. She is a graduate of Clemson University and earned her Master’s degree in Physicians Assistant studies at the University of South Alabama; additionally, she completed a dermatology fellowship at Charlotte Dermatology in North Carolina. For more than ten years, her focus on both medical and surgical dermatology has included identifying and treating skin cancers as well as managing biologic medications for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Ally has a strong love of surgical dermatology and she performs surgeries every day in the clinic, including excisions of cysts and skin cancers. She also loves the challenge of a difficult case! On the cosmetic side, Ally is a skilled injector of both Botox and Dysport. She sees compassion and empathy as vital qualities that she brings to all her patient interactions. She is mindful that skin cancer screenings can be frightening or overwhelming; her warm, calm manner and her focus on patient education throughout each appointment make her an outstanding clinician.

Allyson Harrell-Garrison

PA-C

Ally is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Diplomate of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, their highest rating. She is a graduate of Clemson University and earned her Master’s degree in Physicians Assistant studies at the University of Alabama; additionally, she completed a dermatology fellowship at Charlotte Dermatology in North Carolina. For more than ten years, her focus on both medical and surgical dermatology has included identifying and treating skin cancers as well as managing biologic medications for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Ally has a strong love of surgical dermatology and she performs surgeries every day in the clinic, including excisions of cysts and skin cancers. She also loves the challenge of a difficult case! On the cosmetic side, Ally is a skilled injector of both Botox and Dysport. She sees compassion and empathy as vital qualities that she brings to all her patient interactions. She is mindful that skin cancer screenings can be frightening or overwhelming; her warm, calm manner and her focus on patient education throughout each appointment make her an outstanding clinician.
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