Experienced immediate mandibular paralysis after Kybella. Should I be trusting this Dr to perform the second treatment?

Question

Received first Kybella treatment yesterday, experienced immediate paralysis of mandibular nerve. During very start of procedure, tasted a strong metallic on underside of mouth exactly where she was injecting product. I told her immediately that I was tasting it. She stated the reasoning was because of it being a shallow fat area. She suggested Botox to even it out. Shoul I run far & fast from this Dr? Now drooling when I drink/eat & awful crooked smile, hoping no permanent nerve damage done.

Philip Solomon, MD, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It's unfortunate to hear about your experience. Mandibular nerve injury is a known complication that may occur with Kybella treatments, and for this reason amongst others, ensure you seek out an experienced injector. Good news is that Mandibular nerve injuries are often temporary resolving in 1-2 months.  I would avoid correcting your smile with Botox as you may have further asymmetries as a result. Best to be patient. I would also recommend sharing your concerns with your treatment provider.

Anthony J. Wilson, MD · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your question. One of the known complications of Kybella is paralysis of the marginal mandibular nerve. Every patient has a variable course of the nerve and at times it is not completely predictable. The paralysis typically goes away by six weeks. I do not recommend treating the contralateral side with Botox as the effect of kybella will likely wear off before you know it. You should discuss your concerns with your doctor and if you do not feel comfortable it is always reasonable to seek a second opinion.

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for
your question barneyjim92. I am sorry to hear about your situation. Kybella is
the first and thus-far only FDA-approved non-surgical injectable treatment for
the double chin. If the needle hits the marginal mandibular nerve it can lead to a temporary asymmetric smile. In the pivotal studies the median duration of such an adverse event was approximately six weeks. We have patients smile immediately before and after a treatment to assess for this possibility. Please
consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question and I'm sorry this happened to you. The good news is that these nerve injuries always get better. When Kybella was being studied by the FDA some of the patients in the study had a similar problem as yours with the marginal mandibular nerve, they all got better. One way to temporarily fix the problem is to put some botox in the other side. I typically do not recommend doing this because the nerve paralysis will likely come back sooner than the botox wears off, then you're left with a crooked smile on the other side of the face! These types of injuries typically resolve in 2-8 weeks, but may take longer. Be patient as this can be a frustrating process! Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Kybella is a great product and I am not sure why the physician would be encouraging Botox for this side effect.  I would consult an expert in cosmetic injections and Botox to evaluate the situation.  Please keep us posted.  Best, Dr. Green

Experienced immediate mandibular paralysis after Kybella. Should I be trusting this Dr to perform the second treatment?

Answers (6)

Answer: Marginal Mandibular Nerve Paralysis

Answer: Marginal Mandibular Nerve Paralysis

Answer: Kybella and Side Effects

Answer: Kybella and Side Effects

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Everything you need to know about Kybella

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Experienced immediate mandibular paralysis after Kybella. Should I be trusting this Dr to perform the second treatment?

Answers (6)

Answer: Marginal Mandibular Nerve Paralysis

Answer: Marginal Mandibular Nerve Paralysis

Answer: Kybella and Side Effects

Answer: Kybella and Side Effects

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Kybella

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.