What Is Kybella and How Does It Work?

At Dr. Phillips Aesthetics, we are proud to offer Kybella, a cutting-edge injectable treatment specifically designed to target and reduce submental fat—the fat located under the chin that can cause the appearance of a “double chin.” Our experienced team, led by Dr. Phillips, MD, is dedicated to helping you achieve a more defined and contoured jawline through safe, effective, and personalized care.
 
Kybella’s active ingredient is synthetic deoxycholic acid, a molecule that occurs naturally in the body and aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When expertly injected by our trained professionals, Kybella disrupts the membranes of fat cells beneath the chin. This process causes the targeted fat cells to break down and, over time, be naturally eliminated by your body’s metabolic processes. As a result, you’ll notice a gradual reduction in fullness under your chin and an improved facial profile.
 
One of the key advantages of Kybella at Dr. Phillips Aesthetics is its precision. Kybella specifically destroys fat cells without affecting surrounding tissues. Treatments are typically performed in a series of sessions, spaced about a month apart, to achieve your desired results safely and effectively. Once the treatment is complete and the fat cells have been eliminated, results are considered permanent, as those fat cells will not return. However, we recommend maintaining a stable weight for long-lasting results.

At Dr. Phillips Aesthetics, we are proud to offer Kybella®, an FDA-approved, non-surgical treatment designed to reduce moderate to severe fat beneath the chin—commonly known as submental fullness or a “double chin.”
 
Unlike traditional surgical options such as liposuction, Kybella treatments are performed right in our comfortable medical office. The procedure requires no incisions or general anesthesia, and most patients experience minimal downtime, allowing you to return to your daily activities soon after your appointment. Some swelling, bruising, or numbness in the treated area is normal and typically resolves within a few days.

Kybella utilizes a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid—a molecule naturally found in your body that helps break down dietary fat. When our skilled providers inject Kybella beneath the chin, it destroys targeted fat cells by breaking down their membranes. This causes the fat cells to rupture and release their contents.

Your body then naturally processes these fat remnants. Specialized white blood cells, called macrophages, move in to clear away the cell debris and release fat. Over the following weeks, your body gradually eliminates these byproducts through its natural metabolic pathways, mainly via the liver.
 
The result? The treated fat cells are permanently destroyed and cannot store or accumulate fat again, leading to a long-lasting reduction in fullness under the chin—as long as you maintain your weight. Many patients at Dr. Phillips Aesthetics also notice improved skin contour as the area heals, though the timeline for visible results may vary from person to person.

Two of the most popular treatments for double chin reduction are Kybella and liposuction, each with unique benefits and considerations.
 
Kybella:

Kybella is a non-surgical, injectable treatment designed to dissolve stubborn fat under the chin using deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of fat. Kybella injections are administered in the comfort of our office, and no anesthesia or incisions are required. Most patients benefit from a series of two to six sessions, spaced about a month apart, to achieve optimal results. Improvement with Kybella is gradual, allowing your body to metabolize the targeted fat cells naturally over time. Common side effects, such as swelling or mild bruising, typically resolve within a few days.
 
Liposuction:

For patients seeking more immediate and dramatic results, submental liposuction may be the preferred option. This minimally invasive surgical procedure involves a small incision beneath the chin to remove fat physically, sculpting a sharper jawline and neck. Liposuction is performed by our skilled medical team, using advanced techniques to maximize results and minimize downtime. While the results are typically noticeable after just one session, recovery may involve swelling and bruising for a few weeks. As with any surgery, there are higher risks compared to non-surgical options, which we will thoroughly discuss during your consultation.
 
The right treatment depends on your individual goals, the amount of fat present, your medical history, and your preference for surgical or non-surgical procedures. Patients with mild to moderate fullness who prefer a gradual, needle-based approach may find Kybella ideal. Those seeking a more significant, immediate transformation may opt for liposuction.
 
During your personalized consultation at Dr. Phillips Aesthetics, our experienced providers will assess your anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and recommend the most effective and safe option for you. We are dedicated to helping you achieve natural-looking, beautiful results in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Dr. Phillips Nagsuk, MD at Dr. Phillips Aesthetics offers a personalized approach to Kybella treatment, distinguishing his practice from those with a standard protocol. He customizes each plan based on the patient’s unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals, aiming for natural-looking outcomes. Patient reviews highlight his attentive nature and expertise in aesthetic procedures.
 
If you’re considering double chin reduction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Phillips Aesthetics today to explore your options and take the next step toward a more confident you! Contact us for more information. We are conveniently located at 242 N Edinburgh Drive Winter Park, FL, 32792. We serve clients from Winter Park FL, Maitland FL, Casselberry FL, Winter Springs FL, Orlando FL, Altamonte Springs FL, and surrounding cities.