26 Oct How Kybella Changed the Game
Kybella’s journey from a groundbreaking discovery to a widely-used cosmetic treatment is as intriguing as the results it delivers—and there’s a reason so many clients at RefinedMD love it. The active ingredient in Kybella, deoxycholic acid, is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. Scientists discovered that when deoxycholic acid was injected into targeted fat deposits, it could effectively destroy fat cells, leading to permanent fat reduction in the treated area.
The development of Kybella began in the early 2000s, spearheaded by a small biopharmaceutical company called Kythera Biopharmaceuticals. Researchers at Kythera recognized the potential of deoxycholic acid for aesthetic use, particularly in addressing submental fullness, a common concern for many individuals. After years of clinical trials and rigorous testing, Kybella was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015, making it the first and only injectable treatment specifically designed to reduce fat under the chin.
The Science Behind the Sculpting
Kybella’s mechanism of action is both simple and effective. When injected into submental fat, deoxycholic acid works by disrupting the membranes of fat cells, causing them to rupture and be naturally metabolized by the body. Over the weeks following treatment, the destroyed fat cells are gradually eliminated, resulting in a noticeable reduction in submental fullness and an improved chin profile.
One of the key benefits of Kybella is its permanence. Unlike other injectable treatments that require maintenance, Kybella provides lasting results. Once the fat cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate, meaning that the reduction in submental fullness is long-term, provided the patient maintains a stable weight.
Maximizing Kybella’s Potential
Since its FDA approval, Kybella has become a staple in aesthetic practices worldwide, with practitioners continually refining their techniques to maximize results and minimize discomfort. The traditional approach to Kybella involves a series of injections spaced approximately four to six weeks apart. Most patients require two to four treatment sessions to achieve optimal results, depending on the amount of submental fat and the desired outcome.
Recent advancements in injection techniques have focused on enhancing patient comfort and reducing recovery time. For instance, some practitioners now use a “microdroplet” technique, where smaller amounts of Kybella are injected into more precise areas. This method not only improves the evenness of fat reduction but also reduces the likelihood of side effects such as swelling or bruising.
Another innovative approach is the combination of Kybella with other non-invasive treatments, such as skin-tightening procedures or dermal fillers. For patients with both submental fullness and loose skin, combining Kybella with radiofrequency or ultrasound-based treatments can help tighten the skin while reducing fat, leading to a more sculpted and youthful appearance.
Expanding Applications and Ongoing Research
While Kybella is currently approved only for the treatment of submental fat, ongoing research suggests that its applications could expand in the future. Some practitioners have begun using Kybella off-label to target other small pockets of fat, such as bra bulges, jowls, or even the area above the knees. Although these uses are still in the experimental stage, they represent the growing interest in Kybella’s potential beyond the chin.
Additionally, researchers are exploring the use of deoxycholic acid for non-aesthetic purposes. Early studies have indicated that Kybella could be effective in treating conditions such as lipomas, which are benign tumors composed of fat tissue. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, the potential for Kybella to address a wider range of medical and cosmetic concerns is an exciting prospect.
What to Know Before Treatment
As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s essential for patients to be well-informed before undergoing Kybella treatment. While Kybella is generally considered safe and effective, it is not without potential side effects. The most common side effects include swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, and redness at the injection site. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few days to weeks.
Patients should also have realistic expectations about the results of Kybella treatment. While Kybella can significantly reduce submental fullness, it may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with significant skin laxity or large amounts of fat may require additional treatments or surgical options to achieve their desired outcome.
Kybella’s Impact on Modern Aesthetics
Kybella represents a significant advancement in the field of aesthetic medicine, offering a non-surgical solution to a common cosmetic concern. Its discovery and subsequent rise in popularity have transformed the way patients and practitioners approach fat reduction, making it possible to achieve a more defined jawline without the need for invasive surgery.
As techniques continue to evolve and research expands into new applications, Kybella’s role in the world of aesthetics is likely to grow even further. Whether you’re considering Kybella for submental fullness or exploring its potential for other areas of the body, this innovative treatment offers a promising path to achieving your aesthetic goals with minimal downtime and long-lasting results. Learn more by booking your Kybella consultation at RefinedMD today by calling the office or completing the online form.