How Long Does Kybella® Last?

Having an ill-defined jawline and a double chin can be embarrassing, especially in this era of selfies and video calls. Once upon a time, the only treatments available to deal with excess fat in this area were facelifts, neck lifts, or liposuction – all surgical interventions that include anesthesia, stitches, and downtime.
Thanks to recent advances in dermatology, we can remove unwelcome fat beneath the jawline with Kybella®®, an injectable treatment with permanent results.
Kybella® is the first and only FDA-approved product that targets excess fat under your chin and jawline. It’s an injectable that uses an active ingredient called deoxycholic acid to break down fat cells and create an improved facial profile and more defined jawline with no incisions or downtime.
A Forever Correction?
Many patients wonder – are Kybella® results permanent? Dr. Donofrio and her team are always excited to tell our patients yes! It can define your jawline permanently, as your fat cells cannot return once your body metabolizes them.
Kybella® is long-lasting for patients who live a healthy lifestyle after treatment and commit to staying within your target weight range. However, you can reverse your Kybella® results if you gain weight, which can affect fat distribution in your body.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
You should expect optimal benefits four to six weeks after your last Kybella® injection. It takes time because you must wait for your body’s lymphatic system to process the fat cells Kybella® has removed. The healthier you are, the quicker the process is.
Ultimately, a few lifestyle factors impact the Kybella® timeline. For example, habits like smoking and drinking can slow down your lymphatic system, thus extending the time frame for realizing your results. On the other hand, if you are in excellent shape, you will notice a difference much sooner. Be sure to hydrate often to enhance your body’s ability to expel dead fat cells.
How Should I Prepare for Kybella® Injections?
Another step we take to verify your candidacy is ensuring you can follow all preparation instructions before you arrive for your initial appointment. One essential step is to consistently wear sunscreen for two weeks leading to your injection session. Then, keep applying sunblock daily until you complete your Kybella® regimen and see your desired results.
After each session, you should be diligent about wearing sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage and irritation while you heal from your injections.
Is Kybella® Right for You?
Once the deoxycholic acid in Kybella® destroys unwanted fat cells, your body can’t replace them. Therefore, the results are permanent. However, you can schedule touch-up sessions if you regain weight and submental fullness.
At Aria DermSpa, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lisa Donofrio creates customized anti-aging plans for her patients in the Madison area and beyond.
To learn more about facial rejuvenation with injectables in New Haven and Madison, contact us online or call (203) 421-6674 to schedule your personal consultation.