How much fat does each 2 vial session of Kybella remove?

The amount Kybella destroys depends on the surface treated.  A larger surface area needs more vials.  The first session usually doesn't make a dramatic difference, which is why most patients go on to have two or three more sessions. The gradual fat loss allows the skin to adjust to the loss of volume, minimizing the chance for sagging skin. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist will let you know if you are a good candidate for Kybella and approximately how many treatments you will need.

As a facial plastic surgeon who performs neck liposuction, neck-lifts and facelifts, I was first skeptical of using this product. Kybella can achieve gradual and natural appearing reduction of subcutaneous fat pad under the chin. You are probably not going to notice much difference after first round of injection. I see an improvement after 2nd or 3rd round of injections. I also wait about 8 weeks between injections as the swelling persists well beyond 4-6 week range in some people.  It's not for everyone, but if someone does not want to have a surgical procedure this is a great alternative.

The amount of improvement with Kybella will vary with each individual's treatment. Kybella is good for dissolving fat under the chin, but a combination approach is needed to get the most improvement.  I recommend a combination approach with thermage, ultherapy, exilis. VASER liposuction in combination with ThermiRF is an alternative for contouring the chin, if you're a candidate. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Cost will vary, see an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

But the simple answer is not very much.  In the clinical study of Kybella, 60% of patients needed all 6 Kybella sessions at one month intervals.  At the end of this series of treatments, 40% of patients were dissatisfied.  The service is very expensive because Allergan charges doctors a lot of money for Kybella.  Honestly, neck liposuction is much more effective and less expensive than Kybella but neck liposuction does not have a cute national campaign selling it.

The amount of fat reduction that a patient will experience after a Kybella treatment is going to vary. It typically takes at least 2 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart to see results so don't expect miracles after only one treatment. Like all non-invasive procedures, this requires patience but it does work for the right patient.  

Thank you for
your question Kaitlyn213. Kybella is
the first and thus-far only FDA-approved non-surgical injectable treatment for
the double chin. Unfortunately there are no studies showing exactly how much fat is removed with a Kybella injection. The best way to get the answer you are looking for is to review before and after photographs. Please
consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Each vial allows for 10 injection points approximately 1 cm apart.  Two vials will allow for 20 injection points.  It is difficult to quantify this into the amount of fat it will dissolve though because it will vary for each patient.  The more injection points will allow for larger areas of fat to be addressed not necessarily larger volume in any one area.  Best of luck!

It varies by patient. Most patients need a minimum of 2 treatments and up to 6. Ask your PS for a copy of their "what to expect" document to discuss swelling, warmth, potential bruising

Hello Kaitlyn213,
When it comes to Kybella, everyone is different in their response.  The more inflammation you have the better your result will be.  An idea about how many treatments will be needed can be given with an in person evaluation, but that is only an estimate. The treatment stops when either you are satisfied with the result or there is no more fat to remove. Depending on the patient that can range from 2 to 6 treatments.  Another option is simply liposuction which is much more controlled, but this too needs to be discussed with an in person evaluation.  I'd recommend you consult with a facial plastic surgeon to learn about both of the options. I hope this helps and good luck.  

Hi Kaitlyn213,
Kybella treatments are customized to you, using a template that best covers the area of excess submental fat you wish to treat. Your satisfaction with each treatment will determine how many sessions you ultimately decide to undergo. Patients with the smallest areas of fat deposits typically receive 2 treatments of 2 vials for optimal results. Patients with a larger area of concern will require more vials per treatment as well as more treatment sessions to reach the desired results. Since there is some manipulation needed to fully assess the area and make a proper recommendation, I would encourage you to seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who can help guide you. In short, your question is tough to answer without an exam. The largest template used for Kybella would take 5 full vials to treat. Best of luck!