01 Dec Understanding Kybella and Its Role in Facial Contouring
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable that uses deoxycholic acid to destroy fat cells under the chin, helping to reduce submental fullness—the so-called “double chin.” Once injected, these fat cells are broken down and metabolized by the body, meaning that they cannot return unless new fat is gained. RefinedMD offers this non-surgical approach as an effective option for those who want a more sculpted jawline without surgery. Typically, several treatments are required—often three to six sessions spaced at least one month apart—to achieve optimal results.
Because Kybella is non-surgical, it’s often chosen as a lower-downtime alternative to liposuction or excisional procedures in the chin area. However, precision in injection technique is key, as the product must be carefully placed to avoid affecting nearby nerves and tissue structures.
What the Latest Trends Say
Recent aesthetic trend reports show that while Kybella remains popular, the market for noninvasive fat-reduction treatments overall has shifted. Allure noted a dip in demand for treatments like Kybella, CoolSculpting, and Vanquish in 2024, attributing the change to evolving patient expectations and the rise of multi-modal contouring solutions. Meanwhile, Evie Magazine highlighted a growing awareness among patients about understanding long-term tissue changes before selecting any injectable fat-reduction treatment.
Even within professional circles, Aesthetic Surgery Journal published research in 2025 examining how injectable fat-reduction treatments can impact tissue architecture, especially for those who may later pursue surgical options such as facelifts. While findings were not specific to Kybella, the article urged careful provider-patient discussion before any nonsurgical fat removal.
New injectables like CBL-514 are also entering the research pipeline, showing early promise for fat reduction in multiple areas of the body—not just under the chin. This underscores a growing trend toward more targeted and customizable options in the aesthetic space.
Who Makes a Good Candidate
The best Kybella candidates are adults with moderate submental fat, good skin elasticity, and realistic expectations. Those with significant skin laxity may not experience the tightening effect they desire, and surgical or energy-based tightening options may be more effective. Because Kybella works by causing an inflammatory response that breaks down fat cells, mild to moderate swelling after treatment is completely normal and temporary.
It’s important to plan ahead if future neck or facial surgery is a possibility. Some surgeons note that injectable fat treatments can subtly alter tissue texture, so a personalized consultation is essential to ensure the right long-term aesthetic approach.
What to Expect After Treatment
Following Kybella injections, temporary side effects such as swelling, redness, bruising, or tenderness are common. Some patients also experience mild numbness or firmness in the treated area, which usually subsides within a few weeks. More rare complications, such as nerve irritation or difficulty swallowing, have been reported but are typically temporary and resolve on their own.
Proper technique and anatomical understanding minimize these risks. Choosing an experienced injector ensures that the treatment precisely targets unwanted fat without compromising natural movement or expression.
Results and Longevity
Kybella’s effects are not immediate. Noticeable improvement generally begins within four to six weeks, with continued fat reduction over the next several months as the body metabolizes destroyed cells. Because the targeted fat cells are permanently eliminated, results are long-lasting—though maintaining a stable weight is important to prevent new fat accumulation.
For those seeking a more defined jawline or smoother neck profile, Kybella can provide a significant aesthetic enhancement without the downtime of surgery. Many patients find it to be a confidence-boosting treatment that complements their overall beauty and wellness routine.
Contact RefinedMD today by calling our office or completing the online form to schedule your Kybella consultation and start your journey toward a sculpted, more confident profile.