Kybella for Double Chin: What to Expect Before, During & After

Submental fullness — more commonly called a "double chin" — is one of the most stubborn areas of the body to change through lifestyle alone. Even patients who are at a healthy weight often struggle with excess fat beneath the chin due to genetics, aging, or both.

Kybella (deoxycholic acid) is the only FDA-approved injectable treatment for reducing submental fullness — and its results are permanent.

How Kybella Works

Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in your body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the submental area, it destroys the cell membranes of fat cells. Once destroyed, those fat cells can no longer store fat.

The result: permanent fat cell destruction in the treated area.

What to Expect During Treatment

Before the procedure: Dr. Taborga maps the submental area with a temporary grid to ensure precise, even injection placement. A topical anesthetic is applied.

During the procedure: Multiple small injections are made through the gridded area. Most patients experience a mild burning or stinging sensation lasting 10–15 minutes. Total treatment time is 15–20 minutes.

After the procedure: This is where most patients are surprised. Swelling is significant — the area will appear larger before it gets smaller. Expect: - Moderate to significant swelling for 1–4 weeks - Possible bruising and numbness - Some firmness as treated tissue responds

This is completely normal and expected.

How Many Sessions Do You Need?

Most patients need 2–4 sessions, spaced at least 4–6 weeks apart. Some patients with significant submental fat may need up to 6 sessions.

Results become visible as swelling resolves — typically at 4–6 weeks after each session, with final results apparent 2–3 months after your last treatment.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates for Kybella: - Have moderate to significant submental fat - Have good skin elasticity (loose, sagging skin won't respond well) - Are at or near their ideal body weight - Want a permanent solution without surgery - Can tolerate the downtime of multiple treatments

When Kybella Isn't the Best Option

If you have significant skin laxity beneath the chin, Kybella alone may not produce the result you want — removing fat without addressing the skin can create a sagging appearance. In these cases, surgical options or combination approaches may serve you better.

Dr. Taborga provides an honest assessment during consultation.

Ready to address your double chin? Call (332) 237-3661 to schedule a consultation.