Is it okay to manage swelling post kybella, or will results be improved if you just let it run its course? (Photos)

Especially the initial Kybella treatment causes tremendous inflammation and swelling.  It is also very uncomfortable.  It kind of violates the whole idea of being a minimally invasive treatment.  The swelling and discomfort is initially disabling for many.  The swelling will persist for several weeks but it is at its worst for the first few days up to a week.  Generally a compression garment is not recommended.  A cool compresses is helpful but don't over do it.It is also important to be realistic about what to expect with treatment.  In the study of Kybella that was the basis for FDA approval, 60% of subjects needed 6 services at one month intervals.  This was the maximum number of treatments under the study.  At the end of these 6 services, a full 40 of treatment subjects were disappointed with their result.  In my opinion, this is a very expensive service and the advertisements don't really talk about the need for multiple treatments.  Kybella is not as reliable as neck liposuction in my opinion.

You can absolutely manage the swelling after Kybella.  Ice or cool compresses combined with elevation of your head are very effective.

Swelling post Kybella treatment is normal. The best is to let it run it"s course and go for your second treatment in 8 weeks if needed.

Hello,I typically do not recommend the use of compression garments after treatment.  Usually a cool compress and symptom treatment with acetaminophen or ibuprofen will help with any discomfort. The swelling may persist for several days.

Thank you for your question.  Kybella is the only FDA approved injectable product for the treatment of submental (under the chin) fullness.  It is made from deoxycholic acid, and when it is injected, will dissolve the fat which lies between the skin and muscle under the chin.  You are correct that the inflammatory response After injection of Kybella helps to remove this fat.  However, we typically do not recommend the use of compression garments after treatment.  Typically, a cool compress and symptom treatment with acetaminophen or Tylenol will help with any discomfort.The short a consult with a board-certified injector who has experienced with Kybella.  Here you'll have a full evaluation and be able to discuss your goals.I hope that this helps!–David Gilpin

Thank you for your question about Kybella. I cannot speak for all practices, but we do not have our patients wear compression garments post injection.  I recommend letting the swelling process run its course.  As you said, the more inflammatory response the better your end result.  Three vials is a typical amount for the first session.  However, the amount varies depending on the patient. 

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.

It is best to ride out the swelling if you can. Swelling is a crucial part of the process. If you are not in any pain, I would suggest leaving it alone. If you are experiencing a lot of discomfort, it is recommended to use ice as needed. 

DearSugar980:What a terrific question! ...And one we have asked ourselves as well.  What you need to know is that the deoxycholic acid in Kybella acts immediately to lyse the cell walls of fat cells. The amount of inflammation makes no difference whatsoever to the number of cells that will die and never come back.  However, if you are hoping for tightening of the skin of the neck as well as reduction of fat, inflammation is one stage and perhaps an essential part of the process of connective tissue remodeling that can result in tighter skin after Kybella.Most patients dislike swelling after Kybella and do not have lax skin before treatment. They will not experience increased laxity of the skin after treatment, so are happiest with a compromise that will neither inhibit not promote tightening: vigorous icing, topical and oral bromeliad, and brief treatment with oral antiinflammatory medication (no more than 3 days). Our experience is that this gives the best results, with reduction in fat and often a little tightening as well, with minimal downtime. Patients with severe laxity should not be having Kybella treatment.I hope this is helpful.All the best, Dr. Clark

Swelling post Kybella should be treated with compression. No other methods are needed. Pre and post procedure ice can be used. Significant swelling after the procedure is expected and typical. This can be pretty extensive and lasts anywhere from 24-72 hours typically. 

Temporary swelling is the norm with Kybella.  We manage it with a chin strap and ice more for comfort than to try to diminish the inflammatory response.  I would be against treating the inflammation aggressively (like prescribe steroid pills) because there might be validity to the thought that the inflammation may help with new collagen formation and therefore give a tightening effect on loose skin.  Fat reduction however would probably not be reduced either way.