Although anyone who wanted to get rid of a double chin would have had to have liposuction performed, not everyone has been keen to undergo this somewhat invasive form of treatment. However, thanks to FDA approval being granted on Kybella, more people than ever have been able to enhance their appearances without the stress of invasive surgical procedures.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, which is in fact a naturally occurring molecule that has the ability to metabolize dietary fat. A clinical associate professor of dermatology at UCLA, Derek H. Jones, who is also the lead clinical investigator of Kybella, described what the substance is and what it does. “Basically, what it’s doing is disrupting the fat cell membrane. As soon as it hits, it causes lysis – or destroys the cell membrane. After that, the fat cell releases its fatty contents and the body metabolizes the fatty contents as normal,” he said.

Not a Quick Fix

Even when dieting rigorously, it has been proven that it is close to impossible to shift fat deposits that accumulate under the chin over time – until now, that is. However, this does not mean that Kybella is a ‘once-off miracle treatment.’ Patients will be required to make between 2 and 4 visits to their cosmetic or plastic surgeon, and each visit will consist of 20 injections being administered into the area under the chin. End results will only be fully visible after the final visit has been completed, so this is by no means a quick fix.

Faster Recovery than Liposuction

Patients who have had liposuction performed under the chin would have to expect recovery to take a few weeks. However, with Kybella, this period is shortened dramatically, making it the more appealing choice. While symptoms such as general tenderness and swelling at the site of the injections are to be expected afterwards, these will usually clear up within a few days at the most. Other symptoms that can be expected include temporary numbness and general pain.

Not Suitable for Everyone with a Double Chin

Although this treatment is FDA approved, it doesn’t mean that it will be suitable for everyone who is unfortunate enough to have a double chin. For a start, it may not be administered to anyone who is under the age of 18 years. Before having the injections administered, it is strongly recommended that surgeons rule out any possibility that a patient’s double chin is not being caused by medical conditions such as enlargement of the thyroid or swelling of the cervical lymph nodes in the neck area.

It is crucial for patients to ensure that they have these injections administered by licensed, trained and experienced surgeons. This will prevent damage from occurring to the mandibular nerve and it will help ensure that patients obtain the results they desire. Anyone who would like to find out more about this treatment can schedule a consultation with us today.


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Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel


Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel

With special expertise in all aspects of facial plastic surgery, and a particular skill for revision surgery, it’s clear why Dr. Spiegel is one of the most celebrated facial plastic surgeons in the world. If you are seeking the best possible results, or have a uniquely challenging problem, you’ve found the right doctor.

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Dr. Onir L. Spiegel


Dr. Onir L. Spiegel

Dr. Onir (pronounced “oh-near”) has years of experience in facial aesthetics and treats some of the most recognizable and famous faces. Dr. Onir started her career in oral health, earning doctorate degrees from both New York University and Boston University. She has been the recipient of numerous awards for her cutting-edge medical research as well as her technical skills in dentistry.

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Dr. Jacob Tower


Dr. Jacob Tower

A board-certified specialist in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Jacob Tower brings a thoughtful approach and an artistic eye to New England’s premier plastic surgery practice, The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts. In addition to being an in-demand surgeon, Dr. Tower is an assistant professor at the Boston University School of Medicine, a sought-after lecturer, and an expert in facial plastic surgery.

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