Alopecia after Kybella. Should I be as freaked out by this as I am?

Question

I had my first Kybella treatment about 2.5 weeks ago and yesterday I realized that my beard has really noticeable patches in it around the injection site. I was warned by the injector that "some" hair loss was a possible side but this just looks awful. I look like I have mange. I'm going to have to ditch my bearded look and go clean shaven.  How long does something like this normally last? Finally, is there anything I can do to stimulate growth?

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for
your question ota457. Kybella is the first and
thus-far only FDA-approved non-surgical injectable treatment for the double
chin. The pivotal studies did not include hair loss or alopecia in the adverse events. However we have seen this is the case sometimes. It is limited to the injection points and thought to be temporary. Please
consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

So sorry that you are experiencing this, but can be a side effect of Kybella. Thankfully, it is temporary. Having said that, it may take a few months to fully resolve so you'll need to go clean shaven in the meantime. Kindly,Kouros Azar

Tracy Leong, MD · Answer

Although I have not experienced this personally with any of my Kybella patients, hair loss associated with Kybella treatment is supposed to be temporary. Until it grows back, I recommend shaving the area so the hair loss is not as noticeable. If the alopecia persists more than 6-8 weeks following your last Kybella treatment, I recommend contacting the provider that administered your Kybella or having a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss treatment options for the alopecia.I hope this answer is helpful! Best of luck.

Josh Waltzman, MD, MBA · Answer

Thanks for your question.  Hair loss in the areas treated by Kybella is one of the potential risks.  Fortunately, this should be temporary.  You should start to see regrowth in several months.  You might need to go with the clean shave look for a little while.  Hopefully your neck line is improving and you will be able to show off your results.  Best of luck!

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Kybella is a fantastic treatment for reducing submental fat.  There are some cases of temporary hair loss from the procedure in the beard area.  I would recommend shaving the area in the meanwhile.  The hair should grow back in a few months.  Best, Dr. Green

Alopecia after Kybella. Should I be as freaked out by this as I am?

Answers (7)