Kybella®
What Is KYBELLA®?
If you have ever wished for a more defined jawline or hoped to get rid of a stubborn “double chin,” KYBELLA® might be precisely what you’re looking for.
KYBELLA is an injectable treatment that uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a substance your body naturally produces to help break down and absorb fat. When strategically injected beneath the chin, it targets and destroys unwanted fat cells for noticeable, lasting improvements in your jawline’s shape and contour.
Who Is a Good Candidate for KYBELLA?
Ideal candidates for KYBELLA in the Reno-Tahoe area are adults who:
- Have mild to moderate fullness under the chin (submental fat)
- Want to avoid surgical procedures like liposuction
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, but still notice stubborn fat in the chin area
- Have good skin elasticity for natural results once fat is reduced
How Does KYBELLA Work?
Once injected, KYBELLA destroys the targeted fat cells in the treatment area. After your body naturally eliminates these cells over the following weeks, they’re gone for good, meaning the results are permanent as long as you maintain your weight.
What Areas Does KYBELLA Treat?
KYBELLA is primarily designed to treat submental fullness, the area under the chin, but in some cases, trained Dermatology Providers may use it to target other small, localized fat areas (off-label).
What are the Benefits of KYBELLA?
This innovative, FDA-approved injectable treatment can contour and refine your profile – no surgery required.
- Nonsurgical and minimally invasive
- Permanent fat cell removal
- Quick treatment sessions
- Natural-looking, gradual results
- Enhanced confidence from a more contoured profile
What to Expect During a KYBELLA Treatment
Before your session, your Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute Dermatology Provider will discuss your goals, take photos, and mark the treatment area for precision. During the procedure, several small injections are made beneath the chin using a fine needle. A topical numbing agent or ice may be applied for comfort.
Treatment Time and Downtime for a KYBELLA Treatment
Each KYBELLA session typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Some swelling, redness, or mild tenderness in the area is normal and usually lasts 3 to 7 days. Most patients can return to daily activities shortly after treatment.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Possible side effects include:
- Swelling or bruising at the injection site
- Temporary numbness or firmness under the chin
- Mild discomfort or redness
These effects usually resolve on their own as the area heals.
KYBELLA Results: What to Expect and When
You may notice improvement after 2 to 4 treatments, though some patients may need up to 6 sessions spaced about a month apart. As your body breaks down and removes fat cells, your profile gradually becomes more defined. Once your desired results are achieved, additional treatments are usually not necessary – those fat cells are gone for good.
KYBELLA FAQs
- What is KYBELLA used for?
KYBELLA is used to reduce moderate to severe fat beneath the chin, often referred to as a “double chin.” - How many treatments will I need?
Most patients need between 2 to 6 sessions, spaced about a month apart, depending on their specific goals. - Is the treatment painful?
You may feel mild stinging or warmth during injections, but your Dermatology Provider can apply ice or a numbing cream to make you more comfortable. - Is there downtime after KYBELLA?
You might experience swelling or tenderness for a few days, but most people return to work and normal activities quickly. - When will I see results?
Visible results typically appear after a few weeks as your body processes the destroyed fat cells, with full results developing over several months. - Are KYBELLA results permanent?
Yes. Once fat cells are destroyed, they can’t store or accumulate fat again, though maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your results. - Can KYBELLA be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Many patients combine KYBELLA with treatments such as skin tightening or fillers for a more comprehensive rejuvenation plan.
Ready to refresh your look? Book an appointment with a specialist at a Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute in the Reno-Tahoe area to discuss cosmetic injectables and personalized skincare options.

