Jun 15 2025

How Kybella Works – A Complete Guide

Kybella is an injectable treatment specifically used to reduce the submental fat and stubborn areas of fat, also known as the double chin. It is used and classified as an “injectable enzyme” and is a premiere non-invasive fat reduction resource for those areas on the body immune to diet and exercise. Kybella’s ability to target specific areas of localized fat makes it a versatile option for individuals looking to refine their body contours without the need for invasive surgery. This innovative treatment allows for precise and customizable fat reduction, providing a non-surgical alternative to traditional liposuction. Whether you have stubborn fat under the chin, around the bra line, on the back, or in other challenging areas, it can help sculpt and contour your body to achieve a more streamlined and defined appearance. Find out how Kybella works and what you can expect from treatment. 

How Kybella Works

Kybella works as an injectable enzyme that gets rid of smaller, more precise fat areas permanently. Kybella uses deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that breaks down dietary fat. Once injected, Kybella works to destroy fat cells in the treated area, which are then metabolized and eliminated by the body over time. Kybella is best for small, targeted areas like a double chin (contours and defines the jawline), flanks (or love handle reduction), upper arms (bat wing reduction), inner thighs to improve contour, bra area fat (for back contour and upper torso), back fat areas resistant to diet and exercise (for a sleeker silhouette), and even knees.

The process of Kybella works gradually, as your body naturally metabolizes the fat cells over several weeks, leading to a slimmer chin and sculpted jawline. Once the fat cells are destroyed, they are permanently gone with lasting results if you maintain your weight. When injected, Kybella works to destroy fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated by the body over the following weeks​ of the injection site.

By offering a non-invasive, versatile solution for targeted fat reduction, Kybella empowers individuals to achieve their desired body contours with minimal downtime and discomfort. This treatment not only enhances physical appearance but also boosts confidence, allowing individuals to look and feel their best without the need for surgical intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kybella painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during Kybella injections, as our providers typically can prepare patients and their injection sites with topical numbing cream for discomfort. The injection itself mat cause light burning and tenderness. The lidocaine injection may cause a brief burning sensation, but the Kybella injection itself is generally well-tolerated. 

What areas can be treated with Kybella?

Kybella is FDA-approved for reducing excess fat under the chin, or eliminating double chin, helping to contour and define the jawline for a more youthful profile. Kybella injections can be used to reduce fat deposits on the sides of the torso, commonly known as love handles or flanks, to enhance overall body shape and definition. Excess fat in the upper arms, often referred to as “bat wings,” can be addressed with Kybella to improve arm contour and achieve a more toned appearance. Kybella can help reduce fat deposits on the inner thighs, improving thigh contours and addressing concerns about thigh fullness. Kybella works also to eliminate stubborn fat deposits that accumulate around the bra line can be targeted with Kybella injections to achieve a smoother, more contoured back and upper torso. Areas of fat on the upper and lower back that are resistant to diet and exercise can be treated with Kybella, resulting in a more streamlined silhouette. Fat accumulation around the knees can be a concern for some individuals. Kybella injections can help reduce fat in this area to create a smoother appearance.

How many Kybella sessions are typically needed to see results?

Most patients need 2 or more sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart depending on the size of the area being treated. Results become noticeable within about 6 weeks after each treatment. 

What should I expect during and after a Kybella treatment session?

Each treatment session is performed in-office by a qualified healthcare provider and typically lasts between 20 to 30 minutes. The treatment area is carefully photographed and marked to ensure precise targeting of the fat deposits. Patients may receive numbing cream or local anesthesia to enhance comfort during the procedure. The technique used for Kybella™ injections are somewhat comparable to that of Neurotoxin Injections, such as Botox into areas of the face (when comparing to resolving that of the double chin) to platysma band injections. 

Are there any side effects or risks associated with Kybella?

Patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort at the injection sites, but these side effects are temporary and usually resolve within a few days to weeks.

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