19 Sep Defining the Jawline: Kybella vs. CoolSculpting vs. Liposuction for Submental Fat Removal
A well-defined jawline is a hallmark of youthful beauty and facial symmetry. Submental fat, often referred to as a “double chin,” can obscure these features, leading many to seek cosmetic treatments for a more sculpted appearance and we have many options available at RefinedMD. Among the popular methods to tackle submental fat are Kybella, CoolSculpting, and liposuction.
Kybella: The Injectable Solution
Kybella is an injectable treatment that uses deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the submental area, Kybella destroys fat cells, which are then naturally metabolized by the body over time.
How It Works
Kybella’s active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, disrupts the cell membrane of fat cells, causing them to rupture and die. Once destroyed, these cells are gradually eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system. The treatment involves a series of injections spaced about a month apart, with most patients requiring two to four sessions to achieve optimal results (Lupo et al., 2017).
Effectiveness and Recovery
Clinical studies have shown that Kybella effectively reduces submental fat, leading to a more contoured jawline (Sastry et al., 2018). The procedure is minimally invasive, with common side effects including swelling, bruising, and numbness, which typically resolve within a few days to weeks. There is no significant downtime, allowing patients to return to their normal activities shortly after treatment.
CoolSculpting: The Freezing Fat Solution
CoolSculpting, also known as cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive procedure that uses controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate fat cells. This method targets and cools fat cells to temperatures that trigger their natural death without damaging surrounding tissues.
How It Works
During a CoolSculpting treatment, a specialized applicator is applied to the submental area. The applicator delivers controlled cooling, which crystallizes the fat cells. Over the next few weeks, the body naturally processes and eliminates these dead cells, resulting in a reduction of submental fat (Dierickx et al., 2013).
Effectiveness and Recovery
CoolSculpting has been shown to reduce submental fat by up to 20-25% after a single session, with further reductions possible with additional treatments (Stevens et al., 2013). The procedure is well-tolerated, with side effects such as redness, swelling, and temporary numbness. Patients can typically resume their daily activities immediately following the procedure.
Liposuction: The Surgical Gold Standard
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat deposits from specific areas of the body, including the submental region. It is considered the gold standard for fat removal due to its precision and effectiveness.
How It Works
Liposuction involves making small incisions in the treatment area and inserting a thin tube called a cannula. The cannula is used to suction out excess fat cells, sculpting the desired contours. There are different techniques for liposuction, including traditional, laser-assisted, and ultrasound-assisted methods, each offering various benefits depending on the patient’s needs (Fisher, 2016).
Effectiveness and Recovery
Liposuction provides immediate and noticeable results, with a significant reduction in submental fat. However, it is a surgical procedure that requires anesthesia and carries a longer recovery period compared to non-invasive options. Patients can expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few weeks, with final results becoming apparent after several months (American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 2020).
Comparing the Contenders: Which Is Right for You?
Treatment Effectiveness
- Kybella: Effective for moderate to severe submental fat, with visible results after a few sessions. It provides a gradual improvement, which can be appealing to those seeking subtle changes.
- CoolSculpting: Ideal for patients with mild to moderate submental fat. Results are noticeable after one or two sessions, with continued improvement over several months.
- Liposuction: Best suited for individuals with significant submental fat or those seeking dramatic results. Provides immediate reduction and precise contouring.
Downtime and Recovery
- Kybella: Minimal downtime with temporary side effects such as swelling and bruising. Patients can usually return to normal activities within a few days.
- CoolSculpting: No downtime, with mild side effects that resolve quickly. Patients can resume daily activities immediately.
- Liposuction: Longer recovery period due to the surgical nature of the procedure. Patients should expect several weeks of downtime and follow post-operative care instructions carefully.
Treatments in the Headlines
Celebrities like Khloé Kardashian and Jessica Simpson have publicly endorsed Kybella, praising its effectiveness in reducing submental fat without surgery. These endorsements have boosted Kybella’s popularity, making it a go-to option for non-invasive fat reduction.
CoolSculpting has a strong following among celebrities, with stars like Molly Sims and Kris Jenner sharing their positive experiences. The treatment’s non-invasive nature and quick recovery time make it an attractive option for those in the public eye.
Despite the rise of non-invasive treatments, liposuction remains a popular choice for many celebrities seeking dramatic results. Chrissy Teigen and Ariel Winter have openly discussed their experiences with liposuction, highlighting its effectiveness for targeted fat removal.
New Techniques and Technologies
Innovations in body contouring continue to emerge, offering improved results and patient experiences. For example, advancements in laser-assisted liposuction techniques, such as SmartLipo, provide more precise fat removal and skin tightening. Additionally, ongoing research into combination treatments, such as using Kybella alongside CoolSculpting, promises to enhance outcomes by addressing multiple aspects of submental fat.
The FDA recently approved new applicators for CoolSculpting, designed specifically for smaller areas like the submental region. These applicators improve the treatment’s comfort and effectiveness. Furthermore, clinical studies continue to validate the safety and efficacy of these treatments, providing patients with confidence in their choices (Rossi et al., 2019).
Choosing the Best Option for You
When deciding between Kybella, CoolSculpting, and liposuction for submental fat removal, it is essential to consider your individual goals, budget, and tolerance for downtime. Each treatment offers unique benefits and can effectively reduce submental fat, enhancing your jawline and boosting your confidence.
Consulting with a qualified and experienced practitioner is crucial to determine the most suitable option for your needs. By understanding the differences between these treatments and considering recent advancements, you can make an informed decision and achieve the sculpted jawline you desire. Get in touch with RefinedMD to schedule a consultation or appointment by calling the office or completing the online form.
References
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2020). Liposuction. Retrieved from PlasticSurgery.org
Dierickx, C. C., Mazer, J. M., Sand, M., Koenig, S., & Arigon, V. (2013). Safety, tolerance, and patient satisfaction with noninvasive cryolipolysis. Dermatologic Surgery, 39(8), 1209-1216.
Fisher, J. P. (2016). Liposuction: Principles and Practice. Clinics in Plastic Surgery, 43(4), 679-684.
Lupo, M. P., Su, T. T., & Alizadeh, K. (2017). ATX-101 (Deoxycholic Acid Injection) for reduction of submental fat: A phase III randomized controlled trial. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 37(3), 322-333.
Rossi, A. M., Taglienti, A. J., Lim, R. M., & Green, J. B. (2019). ATX-101 (Deoxycholic Acid Injection) in the treatment of moderate to severe convexity or fullness associated with submental fat: A pooled analysis of data from two phase 3 studies. Dermatologic Surgery, 45(6), 836-844.
Sastry, A., Evans, G. R. D., & Villanueva, N. L. (2018). Deoxycholic acid (Kybella): Current practices and clinical applications. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 38(12), 1367-1376.
Stevens, W. G., Pietrzak, L. K., & Spring, M. A. (2013). Broad overview of a clinical and commercial experience with CoolSculpting. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 33(6), 835-846.