I am confused with how Kybella works? 7 weeks post last treatment.

Question

I had my first treatment on May 25th, then the second on June 28th. I am 7 weeks post the last treatment. I see an improvement for sure, but it could be a tad better. My confusion is not knowing # 1. Do I see the final results these treatments will provide me at this time period or could it possibly get even better? # 2. If I do want another treatment is there a window of opportunity that I cannot pass or it won't work again?

Sabrina Fabi, MD · Answer

If you’re already seeing improvements after your last treatment, then you’re on the right timeline. Yes, you could continue to improve over the next 4 to 5 weeks. It can take up to 3 months to see your final results. You don’t have to worry about missing a window of opportunity — Kybella works immediately and is not cumulative. Therefore, you could go as long as you wish before your next treatment and it will still remove fat; just don’t gain weight in the meantime! Consulting a board-certified dermatologist for your Kybella treatments will give you the most satisfying and beautiful results.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question on Kybella, 
Kybella is a wonderful procedure to "melt" the fat under the chin.  You are correct that the most common side effects are bruising, swelling, redness, and firmness of the area.  It is also very common to have some superficial numbness of the area that was injected.  This numb sensation is typically resolved within 4-6 weeks, and is not considered a complication.  The swelling associated with Kybella is most intense for the first 1-5 days.  In addition to this swelling, the area may also feel a bit "jiggly", due to the liquification of the fat in the area.  You may ice the area, take ibuprofen, and elevate the head during sleep to help the swelling to dissipate faster.  Immediately after the injections the area will be swollen, red, possibly bruised (typically minimal), slightly numb on the surface, and have a hot/cramping sensation a bit deeper.  It is best not to vigorously exercise for a couple of days after injection.  As for normal daily activities, you should not have much trouble other than the noticeable swelling of the area.  Makeup can be applied the same day to cover redness or bruising.  It typically takes more than one treatment for most people.  And it can take 8-10 weeks to see the results after each treatment.
To be sure, see two or more experienced, licensed and board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment.I hope this helps.

Daniel Levy, MD · Answer

Lavon,7-8 weeks is a good time to check in and assess the effect of the 2nd treatment and also see if a 3rd is needed. The effects of Kybella can improve for up to about 12 weeks, so waiting another month or so if fine.  Even if you were to wait longer, there is no deadline that prevents you from getting more treatments.  Good luck!

Elham Jafari, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question! It is possible that you see some further improvements past this point, but it will most likely be minimal. If needed, we normally wait at least 6 weeks before doing more injections, but there is no timeline following that and you can do more injections if needed anytime beyond the 6-week point. I hope it helps and good luck!

Falguni Patel, MD, FACOG · Answer

In my patients I usually recommend spacing the treatments out to 6 weeks because most continue to see changes.  If after your second treatment you are not sure if you need a third or not, then just wait.  I had one patient who booked her third treatment but then was cancelled 2 times and then she rescheduled one time.  By the time she came in for evaluation, it was almost 4 months after her second treatment and she looked great.  Both the patient and I felt she no longer needed a third treatment. What has been destroyed, remains destroyed.  Waiting will not mean you start all over again...you basically take over from where you left off. Good luck!

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. Kybella is deoxycholic acid which is a naturally occuring fat dissolving agent. It works by destroying fat cells and allowing your body to carry them away. This process can take up to 6-8 weeks to see the full results. You can do multiple treatments but most patients get best results with at least 2 treatments. If you want to do another treatment, you can wait safely. There is not a window after which the treatment no longer works, so no worries there.Hope this helps!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It takes 6-8 weeks for results with Kybella and most people need a series of treatments. Keep in mind, a combination approach is needed to get the most improvement with non-invasive options like Kybella. I recommend Kybella 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. Best, Dr. Emer

Michael R. Macdonald, MD · Answer

Kybella works by destroying the fat cells.  It takes time for your body to respond, so we recommend about 6 to 8 weeks between treatments, but you can certainly go longer. Final results are 12 weeks after your last treatment.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Kybella digests the fat cells. I'm glad you already see an improvement. You should absolutely have a third treatment to get a better result. Waiting 8 weeks is fine. Speak with your injector.Best wishes

Calvin Jung, MD · Answer

Most patients who get kybella will need an avg of 2-4 treatments to see the final results.  An alternative to another round of kybella is neck/chin contouring.  It works well and one requires one treatment with great results.  By the time you spend for 2-4 sessions of kybella, it probably would be the same amount as chin lipo!  See a specialist!

I am confused with how Kybella works? 7 weeks post last treatment.

Answers (16)

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