Is there anything I can do after Kybella to mess up the killing of fat?

Question

Can using topical arnica or anti inflamitory agents or massage keep the procedure from working optimally?

Sabrina Fabi, MD · Answer

Arnica, anti-inflammatory agents and massage will not diminish the effectiveness of Kybella. However, you may be a bit swollen and tender after your treatment, so I'd advise against manipulating the area or using any kinds of topical treatments that could cause irritation. Kybella is injected into the fat and melts it with deoxycholic acid. The melted fat cells are then gradually eliminated from the body through the lymph system. You need to leave about a month or two between treatment sessions. You will probably need at least 3 or 4 treatments to get optimal results. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist will get you the best results and also provide you with advice for how to take care of your submental area after treatment with Kybella.

Jeffrey Ridha, MD · Answer

Based on the physiological effects and mechanism of Kybella, it is very unlikely that a topical cream or massage would have any significant effect on the outcome of treatments.  Best wishes.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

Not really. You will phave some swelling for a few days. Ice and Benedryl can help. I generally recommend massage thereafter for a few weeks. Good luck.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

Kybella works great for small areas of fat under the chin.Sometimes it takes a couple treatments. Using topical arnica or anti-inflammatory agents and/or massage will not hinder the effects of Kybella.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

No, it is unlikely that arnica, anti-inflammatories or massage would negatively impact your results. Keep in mind, a combination approach is needed to get the most improvement with non-invasive options like Kybella.  I recommend a combination approach with thermage, ultherapy, exilis. VASER liposuction in combination with ThermiRF is the best alternative for contouring the chin. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

No. Taking arnica, Advil or performing massage won't adversely affect the Kybella. However, the area will be swollen so you don't want to do anything vigorous or rub it with topical products that may cause irritation.

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question! One of the nice things about Kybella is that once it is injected, there is very little you can do to alter its course. Most patients require 2-3 treatments for optimal results. I've had very good results using it in patients of all ages. Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

Sameer Bashey, MD · Answer

I recommend patients ice the area after Kybella to help with swelling. Usually this is all that is needed for most patients. Its OK to massage the area in a gentle way. The swelling from Kybella subsides in a few days but a small amount of swelling may be noticed several weeks after in some people.

Paul Pietro, MD · Answer

Hello Amyzflying,Thank you for sharing your question with us. We typically will allow for arnica use as well as anti-inflammatory medications post Kybella treatments if you feel the need for added comfort. Lymph type massage as well will not interfere with your result. Kybella (deoxycholic acid) does its work to "dissolve" the fat cell pretty much on contact (at the time it is injected) which is the burning sensation experienced during the treatment. All the inflammation, "jiggling", firmness and soreness are a result of the inflammatory response which is how the body will naturally eliminate "dead" or "injured" cells from the body. It is hypothesized that the inflammatory response will help with the tightening of the skin to some degree however good science to prove this point is lacking. It you feel the need to do the things you are suggesting for your comfort feel free to. Also know that for most to achieve the results they desire 2-4 Kybella treatments will be needed. Be well.

Faiyaaz Kalimullah, MD, FAAD · Answer

Kybella is made from deoxycholic acid - a naturally-occurring detergent compound that ruptures and destroys fat cells on contact.  The effects of deoxycholic acid on fat cells occur almost immediately after injection, which is why patients often experience a burning sensation during treatment.  The inflammatory response and swelling that occurs afterwards is due to the body's attempt to remove the dead fat cells from the area after treatment.  While it is unlikely that anti-inflammatory medications would dramatically reduce the extent of fat reduction, many injectors feel that the secondary inflammation plays an important role in tightening the skin after a Kybella treatment.  I don't believe this has ever been tested or shown in a scientific study, but as a result, it is often recommended that patients avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications after Kybella.  That said, I have recommended short courses of oral steroids for patients who are very concerned about post-Kybella swelling, and I don't believe it has dramatically impacted their results.  I hope this helps!

Is there anything I can do after Kybella to mess up the killing of fat?

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