Double Chin Remedies: Kybella vs. Liposuction

What is the best remedy for submental fullness, otherwise known as double chin?

The short answer? It depends. There are two options which specifically target the area below the chin, reducing fullness permanently:  Kybella injection treatments and Liposuction. The option that is right for you depends upon your goals, your anatomy, and a few other things.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment for dissolving fat under the chin. It is a fat melting shot of synthetic deoxycholic acid, which dissolves the lining membrane of the fat cells. The cells are broken apart, leaving the contents, which are then absorbed by the patient’s own body. The number of Kybella injection treatments depends upon the individual, the amount of fat to be dissolved, and the their own body’s ability to metabolize it. Studies show that patient satisfaction was much higher after multiple treatments.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure which permanently removes superficial fat cells under the chin and also in other areas of the body by the use of a cannula. It can be performed under local anesthesia by a board-certified Plastic Surgeon. Only one surgical procedure is required for the permanent removal of excess fat cells. In rare occasions, a follow up procedure may be required to correct any contour irregularities.

Candidates for Each Procedure

Most anyone who is over the age of 18 years, who has moderate to severe fat accumulation under the chin is a candidate for Kybella treatments. 

Liposuction candidates are the same as those for Kybella treatments, but any person considering a surgical procedure should be assessed by a board certified Plastic Surgeon to confirm their particular candidacy.

Cost

Kybella treatments can range from $1,178 – $1,800 for a single treatment, depending upon how many injections are required per treatment. Patients should receive 2-6 treatments, spaced one month or more apart. Improvement ratings by patients and physicians in clinical studies showed that the patient satisfaction improved with each treatment. Your licensed nurse injector can prescribe the treatment schedule that will work best for you.

Liposuction, while it is a single treatment surgical option, can range from $4,000-5,000 per procedure, depending upon your surgeon’s assessment and recommendation.

Discomfort & Downtime

Kybella injection treatments can require anywhere from 15-40 injections per treatment and the injections can be somewhat uncomfortable. Topical numbing medication can help, but the medication itself can cause a slight burning sensation, according to some patients.  Patients often experience some swelling and soreness immediately after the procedure that can last for a few days. Multiple treatments are recommended for maximum permanent results and patient satisfaction with their results.

Liposuction is a one-time surgical treatment that will permanently remove fat cells. Most often, this procedure is performed under local anesthesia.  An incision is required, so it is important to make sure your surgeon is a board-certified Plastic Surgeon in order to minimize the appearance of that incision site.  The tumescent fluid used for liposuction also contains an anesthetic which will help minimize pain in recovery. Talk to your surgeon regarding his plan for your particular goals.

Best Results for Your Double Chin

It is extremely important, for either (and any) procedure, to make sure your injector or your surgeon are board certified and qualified to administer your treatment or surgical procedure. At Broadway Plastic Surgery, David Broadway, MD, FACS holds five board certifications and routinely performs liposuction procedures for our patients.  At Broadway Skin Essentials, our licensed nurse injector will counsel you and develop a treatment plan for obtaining your aesthetic goals. It is extremely important to make sure both the dosage of Kybella and the number of treatments are customized to fit the requirements of the patient. This will determine the success and effectiveness of this treatment.  Call us today to schedule your consultation and find out which treatment is right for you.