Kybella

What Is Kybella?

Kybella (deoxycholic acid) is the only FDA-approved injectable specifically designed to reduce submental fullness — commonly known as a double chin. Its active ingredient, synthetic deoxycholic acid, is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into targeted fat deposits, Kybella permanently destroys fat cell membranes, triggering the body's lymphatic system to metabolize and eliminate the destroyed cells over time.

Mechanism of Action

Deoxycholic acid disrupts the integrity of fat cell membranes on contact, causing permanent cell lysis. Once destroyed, those fat cells are incapable of storing or accumulating fat again. The body's lymphatic system then gradually clears the cellular debris over the following weeks, resulting in a measurable and lasting reduction in fat volume in the treated area.

Treatment Areas

While FDA-approved for the submental (under-chin) area, Kybella is widely used off-label to address localized fat deposits throughout the body:

• Submental area (double chin) — FDA-approved
• Upper arms
• Lower abdomen
• Love handles and flanks
• Inner thighs
• Knees
• Bra bulges

Treatment Protocol

Most patients require 2–6 treatment sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart to achieve optimal results. The number of vials used per session depends on the treatment area and the volume of fat being addressed:

• Chin and bra bulges: 1–3 vials per session
• Flanks and larger body areas: 2–4 vials per session

Ideal Candidates

Kybella is best suited for adults who have localized, pinchable fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise, and who have good-to-moderate skin elasticity in the treatment area. Ideal candidates are at or near their goal weight and are looking for a non-surgical alternative to liposuction for targeted fat reduction.

Contraindications

Kybella is not appropriate for all patients. Treatment is contraindicated or requires careful evaluation in the following cases:

• Prominent platysma bands (neck muscle banding), which can become more visible after submental fat reduction
• Excessive skin laxity in the treatment area, which may worsen in appearance after fat removal
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active infection or inflammation in the planned injection area

Combination with Morpheus8 for Skin Laxity

For patients with mild-to-moderate skin laxity in the treatment area, combining Kybella with Morpheus8 — a fractional radiofrequency microneedling device — is an effective strategy. Morpheus8 stimulates collagen and elastin remodeling, helping to tighten and firm the overlying skin as the fat is reduced. This combination is particularly beneficial post-treatment for the submental area and other body zones where skin tightening is desired alongside fat reduction.

Pricing

Kybella is priced at $650 per vial. The total cost of treatment depends on the number of vials required per session and the total number of sessions needed to achieve your desired outcome. A personalized treatment plan and pricing estimate will be provided during your consultation.