If you have deleted pictures or untagged yourself on social media because you don’t like the look of your double chin, the latest news from the FDA will make you smile. Kythera Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. has just announced that injections of a new drug, Kybella™, have been shown to be safe and effective in reducing fat (submental fat) under the chin, also known as a “double chin”.
What causes a double chin and why do some people get one and others do not?
Everyone stores fat in different areas of their body. When you gain weight, you may notice that it often starts in one particular area of your body. Some individuals have a tendency to store fat under their chin. The causes of a double chin include weight gain, age, and genetics. Some individuals retain extra fat under their chin despite diet and exercise, leading to lower self-esteem and insecurities about their looks.
What are the treatments options to get rid of a double chin?
While diet and exercise can reduce fat storage under your chin, sometimes you still cannot get rid of your stubborn double chin. “I see many patients in great physical shape with a well-balanced diet but are still self-conscious of their chin area. Previously, we have successfully treated this problem area with liposuction. Kybella now gives us a second non-invasive option for patients”, said Dr. Scott Farber of Farber Plastic Surgery. The benefits of Kybella are
- It can be administered in the office.
- Patients experience no downtime after the injections.
How does Kybella work?
Kybella has an active ingredient called deoxycholic acid, which is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown of dietary fat. When Kybella destroys that fat cell, it is gone permanently. When injected by a board-certified plastic surgeon, the doctor’s visit usually lasts 30 minutes. While each person’s results may vary, up to six treatments may be administered.
Kybella is a great option for patients that are self-conscious about fat under their chin. While liposuction is a still a strong option to treat a double chin, Kybella is particularly appealing to men and women who do not want surgery and are looking for a minimally invasive treatment that can be done in the comfort of their doctor’s office. Patients who have been treated with Kybella were happy about the physical results and also reported increased self-esteem post-treatment.
Dr. Farber is well versed in all of the latest advances in aesthetic medicine. Please call our office to schedule your consultation at (561) 503-2700.