Submental fullness—better known as a double chin—is a common concern for men and women of all ages. The development of fat below the chin is often due to genetics, aging and bone structure, and therefore can’t be eliminated through diet and exercise. However, a double chin can be safely and effectively eliminated using Kybella injections. At The Med Spa at Matthews Internal Medicine, we provide these injections to patients in the Matthews, Charlotte, Monroe, Indian Trail and Mint Hill area. Sculpt a new, more confident profile by booking your Kybella consultation today!

Kybella Injections at The Med Spa at MIM

Kybella is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical fat loss solution developed exclusively for the chin and neck. It was developed by Allergan, the creators of Botox, and approved by the FDA in 2015. This treatment has a short recovery time, low risk of complications and long-lasting results.

The injections contain a synthetic version of deoxycholic acid, a bile acid naturally produced in the stomach to break down fat that is then absorbed into the body. The acid performs the same function when injected into the chin. Over several weeks, it destroys local fat cells, which are then eliminated by the body. The result is a more defined chin and jawline.

Before and After Photos

Please note the patients featured in these images may have undergone additional cosmetic treatments to enhance the effects of their Kybella injections. This photo gallery does not guarantee that everyone who undergoes Kybella injections will obtain these or similar results. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Kybella?

The best candidates for Kybella injections are healthy people at a stable weight who have submental fullness due to:

• Aging
• Bone structure
• Genetics

If you are nursing, pregnant or recovering from neck surgery, we recommend waiting before commencing treatment. The best way to establish your candidacy is to book a consultation with one of our experts.

What to Expect During a Kybella Session

Once we’ve established that Kybella is the right solution for you, your first session will be scheduled at a later date or even the same day, if you so desire.

Before your treatment, a team member will photograph your head and neck from multiple angles to establish a baseline. The doctor will apply a topical numbing cream under your chin. Next, they’ll map out the injection sites with a temporary tattoo dot grid, ensuring that the Kybella is evenly distributed.

Once the numbing cream has taken effect—usually 30 to 40 minutes later—the injections will begin. Dr. Eliza Sangmuah or Dr. Eugene Sangmuah will administer 20 to 30 injections in the neck and chin using a tiny needle. 

Because each injection is so quick, the entire process takes only about ten minutes. Most patients experience a brief burning sensation as the active ingredient takes effect; we’ll provide you with an ice pack to cool your chin and alleviate any discomfort between shots.

When the injections are complete, we’ll wrap your chin in a compression bandage to reduce swelling. As no sedation is involved, you’ll be safe to drive yourself home.

Recovery and results

Following your Kybella session, the deoxycholic acid will start to break down fat cells, causing swelling in the treated area. This typically peaks after 24 hours and resolves in 2 days to 3 weeks. Most people experience the most swelling after their first session and less after subsequent treatments. Minor bleeding and bruising may occur in some cases.

The full results of your session will be visible after approximately 8 weeks. At that point, you’ll be invited for a follow-up visit and we will take another series of photographs to compare to your baseline images. Most of our patients will then receive a second set of injections.

Once those results have had time to fully develop, together, we’ll determine whether further treatment is necessary and, if so, perform a third or fourth procedure. In our experience, the most dramatic results are seen after the second session.

Related Treatments

Because Kybella injections are minimally invasive and quick to administer, many of our patients choose to pair them with another treatment while they’re here in the office. The most popular choices are:

• Botox: Temporarily reduce lines caused by repeated movements on the forehead and around the eyes. This tried-and-true procedure has been trusted worldwide for nearly two decades.

• Dermal fillers: Sculpt your profile even further with lip, nose or cheek fillers. These temporary hyaluronic acid-based injections restore lost volume and enhance your features for a more youthful look.

• Radio frequency microneedling: Combine skin-firming radio frequency energy with the benefits of traditional microneedling. This treatment improves skin texture and tone while promoting collagen and elastin production. 

Alternative Treatments

If Kybella isn’t right for you, for any reason, we advise opting for radio frequency microneedling. 

When performed on the chin and neck, this procedure can be an effective alternative to Kybella injections. Radio frequency microneedling tightens and firms the jawline to reduce the appearance of a double chin.

Kybella FAQ

Does Kybella have any side effects?

Side effects associated with Kybella are swelling, bruising, temporary soreness and minor bleeding. Some people experience small, hard lumps at the injection sites that resolve after a few days. 

Temporary nerve damage, a rare side effect, can cause numbness in the lower jaw for several months. Your risk of unwanted side effects is lowered when you choose a reputable clinic for your Kybella sessions.

Does it hurt?

Most of our patients report a series of pinches while treatment is being administered. You may experience soreness 48–72 hours following your session.

How do I prepare for my Kybella session?

Kybella injections don’t require much preparation on your part. However, we suggest avoiding ibuprofen and acetaminophen in the days leading up to your appointment to prevent post-treatment bruising.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients require 2–4 Kybella sessions. Usually, we’re able to assess how many total sessions you’ll need after your second session. You may continue to undergo treatments scheduled 6 weeks apart until you’re satisfied with your results.

Is Kybella permanent?

Kybella results can last for up to 5 years, at which point the natural aging process will soften your profile. However, the longevity of your results also depends on you maintaining a stable weight. If you gain weight, fat cells can migrate to the treated area and cause the return of a double chin.