Nothing is more frustrating than putting in the work at the gym and eating healthy, but still having stubborn body fat that won’t go away, no matter how many calories you restrict or how much time you spend in the gym.
You probably think you are stuck with your saddlebags, belly pooch, bra bulge, and “bat wings” forever.
But there is a solution that you might have never heard about before.
It’s not an invasive surgery or liposuction. In fact, this little “fat melting secret” only takes a few minutes per session, is affordable, and no recovery or downtime is needed!
It’s called Kybella.
If the name sounds familiar, it’s probably because Kybella isn’t a new treatment for dissolving fat in problem areas. Since 2015, board-certified injectors and plastic surgeons have been injecting Kybella for its intended and FDA-approved usage, which is to get rid of fat under the chin.
Only recently have many medical professionals and researchers discovered that Kybella is also highly effective at dissolving fat in off-label parts of the body— like the stomach, back of arms, thighs, knees, mons pubis, and more!
If the word off-label scares you, don’t let it!
In this short article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Kybella, what we mean by “off-label,” and tell you about ten areas (other than the chin) that our patients are seeing success using Kybella to permanently melt away unwanted pockets of fat.
What Is Kybella and How Does It Work?
Kybella is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment to destroy fat in the facial space between the chin and neck to help diminish a double chin.
The key ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid, a modified form of a substance that the body already makes. When injected into an area of stubborn fat, it destroys fat cells beneath it so fat can’t store and accumulate anymore.
Yes, forever! We’ll discuss that a little further down.
While treating submental fat (the fat pocket under the chin) was the intended FDA-approved usage for Kybella, given its success for use in this context, experienced injectors are finding deoxycholic acid has the same fat-dissolving properties in other “off-label” areas of the body that are similar in size to the chin.
What Does “Off-Label” Mean?
“Off-label” sounds like a scary word, but it’s not.
Off-label does not mean unethical or dangerous. It simply means there are other safe and effective usages for the treatment besides what is listed on the box and approved to treat by the FDA.
Broadening Kybella’s scope of use to other parts of the body appears to be a safe and effective alternative to surgical reduction of unwanted fatty tissue in non-submental areas.
Ten “Off-Label” Places Kybella Will Melt Fat
While Kybella is effective at melting fat in multiple areas of the body, keep in mind that even reducing fat under the chin can take multiple injections over multiple sessions. So, it’s best to use Kybella for areas that are smaller. Here are ten areas of the body where the experienced board-certified injectors at The Lett Center use Kybella to help men and women dissolve fat and body contour.
1. Stomach Fat and Love Handles:
The mid-section is the part of the body that holds on to stubborn pockets of fat the most. We have seen great success with injecting Kybella in patients with a lower belly pooch or excess fat on either side of the waist above the hips.
2. Saddlebags:
One of the most challenging areas to lose fat (especially for women) is the outer thighs. Kybella can potentially reduce body fat in this stubborn area.
3. Bra Line:
A “bra bulge” is a frequent complaint of many female patients. We’ve seen remarkable results in diminishing bra fat using Kybella.
4. Inner Knee Fat:
The inner knee is an area of the leg that tends to hold on to fat, no matter how many miles you run or how many leg extensions and squats you do. We’ve had patients see results in as little as one Kybella treatment in this area.
5. “Banana Butt” Rolls:
This is the little ripple of fat under your butt cheek. Even the hardest-working and leanest athletes are prone to these stubborn fat pockets. Kybella is an excellent solution for this small area.
6. Jawline/Neck:
Similar to the chin area, even if you’ve never been overweight, aging can affect your neck and jawline. Kybella is a great way to help you get rid of excess fat in this area to have a more streamlined facial profile.
7. Inner Thighs:
Certain exercises can target these small muscles, but typically, fat still holds on for dear life, especially if you are genetically prone to holding fat in your legs. Kybella is a great way to spot-reduce these small fat pockets.
8. Arm Fat:
Many clients jokingly refer to this area as “bat wings.” It’s a trouble spot for men and women alike, and we’ve seen great results with arm fat contouring using Kybella.
9: Mons Pubis:
This is the region of fatty tissue just above the pubic area. When it protrudes, it can make many women self-conscious. Because Kybella is gentler than something such as liposuction, it’s an excellent alternative to target fat in this sensitive area.
10. Male Breast/Chest:
Women aren’t the only people trusting our injectors to use Kybella in off-label parts of the body. Many men struggle with excess chest fat (“male breasts”), even when their body fat is relatively low everywhere else, and are using Kybella to get rid of these stubborn pockets of fat.
Is Off Label Kybella the Right Choice For You?
If you are consistently bothered by stubborn fat in problem areas that aren’t responding, using Kybella to dissolve fat in “off-label” areas is certainly something to discuss with a plastic surgeon or injector.
It is also an excellent choice for someone that is on a budget or who doesn’t want to have a more invasive procedure, such as liposuction.
Ideal candidates for off-label Kybella are those within 10 to 15 percent of their ideal body weight, are generally healthy, and have skin that is in relatively good condition.
Why Isn’t Kybella Covered by Medical Insurance?
Cosmetic procedures, like the treatment in question, are often not covered by medical insurance. Here’s why:
- Non-Medical Purpose: Insurance typically covers treatments deemed medically necessary. Kybella is used to enhance appearance, not to address a medical condition, which places it outside the scope of standard insurance policies.
- Elective Nature: Procedures that are elective, chosen for personal preference rather than medical need, usually don’t qualify for insurance coverage. Kybella falls into this category as it targets cosmetic concerns, such as reducing chin fat for aesthetic improvement.
- Alternative Solutions: Often, insurers view that alternatives like diet and exercise can achieve similar results, albeit less targeted. This further supports its classification as non-essential for coverage purposes.
Understanding these points clarifies why such procedures remain the responsibility of the individual wanting to undergo the treatment. If considering this route, it’s wise to discuss potential costs and payment plans with your provider.
Why Choose Kybella?
Kybella is best suited for the reduction of fat from smaller areas of the body. If you are unhappy with a specific problem area (that is relatively small) and are uncomfortable with the idea of going under the knife, then Kybella could be the solution you’ve been searching for.
Treatment Process
- Sessions Required: Kybella involves a series of sessions for optimal results. You can receive up to six treatments, with a one-month interval between each session.
- No Downtime: When performed by a skilled professional, Kybella provides fantastic results and involves no downtime, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.
How Should One Prepare for a Kybella Treatment Session?
Preparing for a Kybella treatment involves several key steps to ensure the best outcome and minimize potential side effects. Start by scheduling a consultation with your healthcare provider to confirm that you’re an ideal candidate for this procedure. During this meeting, discuss your full medical history, including past cosmetic treatments on your face, neck, or chin.
Important Considerations:
- Health Conditions: Disclose any issues related to swallowing or bleeding, as these can affect your suitability for the treatment.
- Pregnancy and Nursing: If you are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant, inform your healthcare provider. The effects of Kybella on pregnancy and infants are not fully understood.
Preparation Tips:
- Timing: Choose a date well in advance of any major events to allow for recovery and potential swelling.
- Skin Care: Cleanse your face thoroughly before the appointment to reduce infection risk.
- Medication: Avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen close to the treatment to minimize bruising afterward.
By following these steps, you’ll help ensure a smoother experience and optimize your treatment results.
Expected Results
A majority of people notice visible results after just two to four sessions. Because the procedure works by completely destroying the problematic fat cells, the results are usually permanent, provided your weight remains stable.
Suitability and Safety
Kybella is a safer and easier alternative to traditional fat-reduction procedures. It is particularly beneficial for those who are uncomfortable with more invasive options like liposuction. As long as you meet the criteria of being within 10 to 15 percent of your ideal body weight and have generally good skin condition, Kybella can offer a lasting solution to those stubborn fat areas.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Kybella Treatment?
Kybella, a popular non-surgical option for reducing double chins, comes with its own set of potential side effects. While these effects are generally minor, it’s important to be aware of them.
- Pain and Discomfort: Some individuals experience mild pain at the injection site.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling is a common reaction and bruising may also occur, both typically resolving within one to two weeks.
- Redness and Numbness: Redness around the treatment area and temporary numbness are reported frequently.
The recovery process varies among individuals, but these minor side effects generally diminish within a short period, allowing most patients to return to their daily activities with minimal downtime.
What Serious Side Effects Might Occur After Kybella Treatment?
After undergoing Kybella treatment, it’s crucial to be aware of potential serious side effects. Some individuals have reported experiencing weakness in facial muscles, which could affect expressions. An uneven smile might develop, often indicating underlying nerve irritation.
Another concern could be difficulty swallowing, a less common but significant symptom that warrants attention. In rare cases, there could be nerve injuries around the jaw area, leading to discomfort or alterations in sensation.
If you encounter any of these symptoms, it’s essential to reach out to your healthcare provider without delay. Early consultation can help manage and alleviate any post-treatment complications effectively.
What Is The Injection Process and Recovery For Kybella Injections?
Most people find the process quick and painless! Each treatment session takes between 15 and 20 minutes at a time.
How many sessions you will need to achieve results varies from person to person and the body part being injected. But in general, you should see results after only one treatment.
However, most patients need one or two additional Kybella treatments if they have thicker submental fat tissue or are being injected in larger off-label areas.
As for recovery, deoxycholic acid injections are generally very well tolerated. Other than mild swelling, there is no downtime, and you can resume daily activities, even working out!
How Many Injections are Typically Used in a Kybella Procedure?
A Kybella procedure generally involves multiple injections to ensure effective treatment. On average, you can expect to receive between 20 to 50 injections in the target area.
Before the injections begin, a topical numbing agent is applied to minimize any discomfort. Each injection delivers the active ingredient directly to the fat cells, aiding in their breakdown and absorption by the body. The precise number of injections depends on factors such as the size and shape of the area being treated, as well as the patient’s aesthetic goals.
Are Results From Kybella Injections Permanent?
Kybella causes the destruction of fat cells permanently. Once destroyed, those cells cannot store or accumulate fat. After the aesthetic response is achieved, future retreatment with Kybella is not expected.
Results happen gradually. You should start noticing changes within 4 to 6 weeks; it typically takes about 3 months before you can see the full results.
How long do the results last?
The results are usually permanent and typically last as long as your weight remains stable. This means that while the fat cells treated with Kybella are permanently removed, maintaining a stable weight is crucial to ensure the longevity of your results.
Weight fluctuations could affect the surrounding untreated fat cells, potentially altering the aesthetic outcome over time. Therefore, a consistent weight helps in preserving the sculpted look achieved through the treatment.
What Serious Side Effects Might Occur After Kybella Treatment?
After undergoing Kybella treatment, it’s crucial to be aware of potential serious side effects. Some individuals have reported experiencing weakness in facial muscles, which could affect expressions. An uneven smile might develop, often indicating underlying nerve irritation.
Another concern could be difficulty swallowing, a less common but significant symptom that warrants attention. In rare cases, there could be nerve injuries around the jaw area, leading to discomfort or alterations in sensation.
If you encounter any of these symptoms, it’s essential to reach out to your healthcare provider without delay. Early consultation can help manage and alleviate any post-treatment complications effectively.
Schedule Your Kybella Session with The Lett Center in Tennessee
Still unsure if Kybella is the solution for your stubborn body fat? Let our expert team help you!
To schedule a Kybella consultation and meet the board-certified team of injectors at The Lett Center, call us at 615-443-0901.
We have locations in Mt. Juliet and Lebanon, Tennessee.