Kybella/PCDC is FDA approved injectable (nonsurgical) treatment for submental fullness (fat below the chin) also commonly referred to as a “double chin”. Kybella (deoxycholic acid) is used to breakdown fat cells beneath the chin. There are several causes for submental fullness including aging, genetics, and weight gain and it is seen in both men and women. Actually, approximately 67% of patients in a recent survey performed by the ASDS said they were bothered by submental fullness or double chin.
How Kybella/PCDC works:
Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, it destroys fat cells, resulting in a noticeable reduction in fullness under the chin. Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired aesthetic goal.
What to expect with Kybella/PCDC:
Before starting treatment, your healthcare specialist
will examine the area under and around your chin to determine if it is right for you. Then, your specialist will tailor your treatment to the amount of fat under the chin and your aesthetic goals.
How is it administered?
At each treatment, you will receive multiple small injections under your chin, and the injection process takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The exact number of injections will depend on the amount of fat you have under your chin and your desired profile.
How many treatment session will I need?
Since everyone’s chin profile is different, the number of treatments varies from patient to patient. Your healthcare specialist will help determine how many treatment sessions you need based on the amount and distribution of your submental fat and your personal treatment goals. Each KYBELLA/PCDC® treatment session is given at least 1 month apart, and you should not receive more than 6 treatments. In clinical studies, 59% of patients received 6 treatments.
Will I need time to recover?
After each treatment, you will likely have some swelling, bruising, or numbness under your chin. Be sure to inform your healthcare professional if you develop an uneven smile, facial muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing or injection site problems such as bruising, hair loss, open sores (ulcers), and damage and tissue cell-death (necrosis) around the injection site. Call your healthcare provider if you develop open sores or drainage from the treatment area.
What are the possible side effects of Kybella/PCDC?
The most common side effects include:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Numbness
- Redness
- Areas of hardness in the treatment area
KYBELLA/PCDC can cause serious side effects, including;
- Nerve injury in the jaw (which can cause an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness)
- Trouble swallowing
- Injection site problems including: bruising, hair loss, open sores (ulcers), damage and tissue cell-death (necrosis) around the injection site. Call your healthcare provider if you develop open sores or drainage from the treatment area