Kybella vs. Liposuction: Which Is Better for Double Chin Removal?

A well-defined jawline can enhance facial symmetry and boost confidence, but a double chin can make that difficult to achieve. Whether due to genetics, aging, or weight fluctuations, submental fat can be stubborn and hard to get rid of with diet and exercise alone. Fortunately, cosmetic treatments like Kybella® and liposuction offer effective double chin removal solutions. But which one is the better option?

Let’s break down the differences between these treatments, their effectiveness, recovery times, and ideal candidates to help you make an informed choice.

What Is Kybella®?

An FDA-approved injectable procedure called Kybella® was created especially to target and eliminate fat behind the chin. The active component, deoxycholic acid, is a naturally occurring substance that aids in the breakdown of dietary fat. Kybella® treatment dissolves fat cells when injected into the submental region, which the body eventually gets rid of.

What to Expect During Kybella® Treatment

Kybella® treatment is a quick, in-office procedure designed to target and reduce moderate submental fat, commonly known as a double chin. During each session, a certified healthcare provider carefully gives several tiny injections straight into the fat under the chin. The appointment is a convenient choice for people with hectic schedules because it usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes.

To achieve the best possible outcome, most people will need a series of treatments—usually between two and four sessions. These appointments are generally spaced about four to six weeks apart to allow the body enough time to process and eliminate the destroyed fat cells between sessions. The gradual nature of the treatment also means that changes occur subtly over time, offering a more natural look for your chin contouring.

Pros and Cons of Kybella®

While Kybella® offers many benefits for those looking for a non-surgical fat reduction for double chin, it’s also important to consider potential drawbacks. Here’s a closer look at both the advantages and limitations.

Benefits of Kybella®

One of the biggest draws of Kybella® is that it’s non-surgical. There are no incisions, general anesthesia, or stitches involved, which reduces the risks commonly associated with surgical procedures. Most patients experience minimal downtime, often returning to their normal routine immediately following the appointment.

Another appealing feature is the longevity of the results. Once Kybella® destroys the fat cells in the treated area, they are gone for good and do not regenerate. This means the results, once achieved, are typically long-lasting. Additionally, because the fat reduction occurs gradually over a series of treatments, the slimming of the chin area looks natural and subtle—ideal for those who prefer a less noticeable transition.

Liposuction for Double Chin Removal: A Surgical Alternative

Liposuction has long been considered a reliable option for fat removal, especially for those seeking immediate and noticeable results. Unlike non-surgical treatments such as Kybella for Facial contour, which gradually breaks down fat cells over time, liposuction physically suctions out fat through small incisions. This approach allows for faster results and can be more effective for individuals with larger fat deposits under the chin.

What to Expect During Chin Liposuction

Depending on the patient’s preferences and the degree of the treatment, chin liposuction is usually an outpatient surgery that may be carried out under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon creates a little incision, often behind the chin, after the region has been numbed or the patient has been sedated. The undesirable fat is then suctioned out by inserting a tiny tube, known as a cannula, into the incision.

The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and patients can often return home the same day. After the procedure, a compression garment may be recommended for a few weeks to help minimize swelling and support healing. While the recovery period varies, most patients notice visible results shortly after the initial swelling subsides.

Pros and Cons of Liposuction

Chin liposuction offers significant advantages for individuals looking to quickly achieve a more jawline definition. However, as with any surgical procedure, it is important to weigh the benefits against the potential downsides.

Benefits of Chin Liposuction

One of the most appealing aspects of chin liposuction is the immediacy of the results. Since the fat is physically removed during the procedure, patients can see a visible reduction in submental fullness right away. Additionally, liposuction is typically a one-time treatment, meaning there’s no need for multiple appointments or follow-up sessions to achieve the desired outcome.

Liposuction is also well-suited for individuals with moderate to severe submental fat, offering a more comprehensive solution for those who may not be ideal candidates for non-surgical fat reduction treatments like Kybella®.

Kybella® vs. Liposuction: Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to reducing submental fat—commonly referred to as a double chin—both Kybella® and liposuction offer effective solutions. However, these treatments differ significantly in how they work, the recovery involved, and the type of results they deliver. Understanding these differences can help you decide which option best aligns with your personal goals, lifestyle, and comfort level with medical procedures.

Comparing Kybella® and Liposuction

Procedure Type and Treatment Approach

Deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring chemical in the body, is used in Kybella®, a non-surgical injectable therapy, to break down and absorb fat cells under the chin. On the other hand, liposuction is a surgical technique that uses a cannula suction device to remove fat physically through tiny incisions.

Downtime and Recovery

In terms of downtime, Kybella® offers a more convenient experience. Most people only deal with mild swelling for a few days and can quickly return to normal activities. Liposuction, on the other hand, requires a longer recovery—typically one to two weeks—with more noticeable swelling and bruising during the healing process.

Number of Sessions Required

Kybella® treatments at Lounge of Beauty Medical Spa are spaced out over time, and most patients need between two and four sessions to achieve their desired look. Liposuction generally delivers results in a single procedure, which can appeal to those seeking a one-and-done approach.

Ideal Candidates

Your ideal treatment option may depend on how much fat you want to address. Kybella® is best suited for mild to moderate submental fat. At the same time, liposuction is typically recommended for individuals with moderate to more significant fat deposits under the chin.

Results Timeline and Visibility

With Kybella® in Long Beach, CA, results appear gradually over a few months as the body naturally eliminates the destroyed fat cells. Liposuction, however, offers immediate results, although some initial swelling may temporarily obscure the outcome.

Pain Level and Discomfort

Pain and discomfort are relatively minimal with Kybella®, usually limited to a mild burning or tingling sensation at the injection site. Liposuction involves more post-procedure discomfort, including moderate pain, lasting several days to a week, depending on individual healing response.

Choosing the Right Option for You

Ultimately, deciding between Kybella® and liposuction comes down to what matters most. Kybella® in Long Beach, CA could be a fantastic choice if you’d rather have a non-surgical procedure with little recovery time and don’t mind making little changes over time. However, liposuction can be a better option if you’re okay with surgical treatment and a lengthier recovery period and want faster, more dramatic results.

Are you still unsure which treatment is right for you? Consulting with a qualified provider can help you evaluate your needs and determine the most effective path forward.

Book Your Consultation Today!

Say goodbye to your double chin—Get your custom plan today! Contact Lounge of Beauty Medical Spa to schedule a consultation and find out if Kybella® is right for you.