Kybella: How the chin slimming injection works and what to expect

Hyderabad: Social media is filled with before-and-after clips of people losing their double chin with a few injections.

The treatment behind it is Kybella, an injectable solution designed to dissolve fat under the chin.

Though approved abroad and now available in select Indian clinics, doctors caution that it is not a miracle shot but a medical procedure requiring careful selection, skilled hands, and patient awareness of risks.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is the brand name for an injectable form of deoxycholic acid, a synthetic version of a bile acid naturally found in the body. Its job is to break down dietary fat. When injected into the fat pocket under the chin, it destroys fat cells permanently.

“The science is simple, the chemical disrupts the fat cells, and once destroyed, those cells do not regenerate,” explained Dr. Rajesh Nair, senior cosmetic surgeon, Hyderabad speaking to Newsmeter.

But patients must understand that while the treated cells are gone, new fat can accumulate if weight is gained.”

Who Can Benefit

Kybella is typically used for adults with localized fat under the chin, commonly called a double chin.

“It works best for younger people or those with firm skin,” said Dr. Anusha Reddy, dermatologist, Secunderabad. “If someone has sagging skin or large fat deposits, surgery or liposuction might give better results. This is not a substitute for weight loss.”

People with infections in the treatment area, previous complex neck surgery, or medical conditions affecting swallowing are not suitable candidates.

The Procedure

• Assessment: Doctors first examine the patient’s chin area to decide if Kybella is appropriate.

• Marking: A grid is drawn under the chin to guide the injections.

• Injections: Multiple tiny injections are given in a single sitting, often 20–40 points in one session.

• Sessions: Most patients require 2–4 sessions spaced about a month apart.

“Patients should not expect results in a week. The fat reduction happens gradually as the body clears the destroyed cells,” noted Dr. Nair.

What to Expect After Injections

• Swelling and bruising are common and can last up to two weeks.

• Numbness and a burning sensation may occur temporarily.

• Visible improvement usually takes a few months after multiple sessions.

“The swelling can actually make the chin look bigger for the first few days,” explained Dr. Reddy. “That is normal and part of the healing process. Patients must be prepared for this downtime.”

Risks and Complications

While generally safe under expert care, Kybella carries certain risks:

• Nerve injury: Rare cases can cause weakness in the lower lip if the injection is misplaced.

• Difficulty swallowing: Reported in a small number of patients.

• Skin ulcers or lumps: Can occur if injected too close to the skin.

“This is not a salon treatment,” warned Dr. Nair. “Improper technique can lead to nerve damage. Only trained dermatologists or surgeons should perform it.”

Alternatives to Kybella

For submental fat reduction, alternatives include:

• Liposuction: Surgical removal of fat, often with immediate results.

• Cryolipolysis (fat freezing): Non-invasive option with gradual results.

• Lifestyle modification: Weight loss through diet and exercise, though genetics often determine chin fat.

“Sometimes, combining treatments works best, for example, liposuction followed by skin tightening, or Kybella in patients who are needle-friendly but surgery-averse,” added Dr. Reddy.

Cost in India

Kybella sessions in Indian metro cities range between ₹20,000–₹40,000 per sitting, depending on the clinic and number of vials used. Since most patients need multiple sessions, total costs can reach ₹80,000–₹1.5 lakh.

What Patients Should Ask Before Saying Yes

1. Is my skin and fat distribution suitable for Kybella?

2. How many sessions will I realistically need?

3. What are the possible side effects in my case?

4. How experienced are you with this injection?

5. What aftercare support will you provide if complications arise?

Bottom Line

Kybella offers a non-surgical way to contour the chin and has gained popularity for being quick and office-based. However, its safety and effectiveness depend entirely on careful patient selection and skilled administration.

As Dr. Reddy summed up: “Patients must treat Kybella like any other medical procedure

. Done right, it can slim the chin. Done wrong, it can harm more than it helps.”