SUBMENTAL FAT REDUCTION
Kybella
Permanently destroy fat cells beneath the chin for a sculpted, defined profile — without surgery, without incisions, and with results that last a lifetime.
What Is Kybella?
Kybella is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to reduce submental fat — the stubborn pocket of fat beneath the chin commonly referred to as a "double chin." The active ingredient, synthetic deoxycholic acid, is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
When injected into the submental area, Kybella permanently destroys fat cells, which are then naturally processed and eliminated by the body over the following weeks. Once destroyed, those fat cells can no longer store or accumulate fat — making results permanent.
At Thrive Wellness + Aesthetics, Kybella treatments are performed exclusively by Dr. Krystle Miles, who carefully maps the treatment area to ensure precise placement and optimal fat reduction while protecting surrounding structures.
How Kybella Works
Kybella's active ingredient — deoxycholic acid — works by disrupting the membrane of fat cells in the treatment area. Once the cell membrane is compromised, the fat cell is permanently destroyed and can no longer function. Your body's natural metabolic processes then gradually clear the destroyed cells over the following weeks, revealing a slimmer, more contoured chin and jawline.
The process is gradual and progressive. Each treatment session reduces a portion of the submental fat, and over a series of treatments, patients see a dramatic improvement in their chin profile. Because the fat cells are permanently eliminated, the results are long-lasting — the treated fat cells do not regenerate.
Ideal Candidates
Kybella may be right for you if:
You have moderate to severe submental fat (a "double chin") that bothers you
The fullness under your chin persists despite diet and exercise
You prefer a non-surgical approach to chin contouring
You're in overall good health and have realistic expectations
You have adequate skin elasticity in the treatment area (Dr. Miles will assess this during your consultation)
Kybella is not recommended for patients who have active infection in the treatment area, have had previous surgery in the chin/neck region that may have altered the anatomy, or are pregnant or nursing. Dr. Miles will conduct a thorough assessment during your consultation to determine if Kybella is the optimal treatment for your goals.
What to Expect
Your Kybella experience at Thrive is carefully planned for safety, comfort, and optimal results:
Consultation: Dr. Miles examines the submental area, assesses skin quality and fat distribution, and determines if Kybella is the best approach for your anatomy
Treatment Day: The area is cleaned and marked with a precise injection grid. A topical numbing agent or ice may be applied for comfort
Injection: Using a fine needle, Dr. Miles delivers multiple small injections of Kybella into the targeted fat deposits. The procedure typically takes 20-30 minutes
Post-Treatment: Expect swelling, firmness, and possible numbness in the treated area — this is completely normal and a sign that Kybella is working. Swelling is most noticeable for 2-4 days and typically resolves within 1-2 weeks
Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 days, though social downtime of a few days is common due to swelling
Number of Treatments
Most patients achieve their desired results in 2-4 treatment sessions, spaced approximately 4-6 weeks apart. The exact number depends on the amount of submental fat present and your aesthetic goals. Some patients with smaller amounts of fat may see significant improvement after just 2 sessions, while others with more volume may benefit from up to 4 sessions.
Dr. Miles takes a conservative, results-driven approach — she'll evaluate your progress at each visit and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. The FDA allows up to 6 treatment sessions, though most patients achieve excellent results well before that.
Results
Results from Kybella develop gradually as the body processes and eliminates the destroyed fat cells. Most patients begin noticing visible improvement 4-6 weeks after each treatment session, with optimal results appearing once the full treatment series is complete.
The results are permanent — once fat cells are destroyed, they do not regenerate. However, maintaining a stable weight is important, as significant weight gain can cause remaining fat cells in the area to enlarge. Many patients report feeling more confident in their profile, experiencing less self-consciousness in photos, and enjoying a more defined jawline.
Safety & Your Peace of Mind
All injectable treatments at Thrive are performed exclusively by Dr. Krystle Miles, MD, MPH — a triple-board-certified physician with advanced training in facial anatomy.
Kybella requires precise knowledge of the anatomy beneath the chin, including the marginal mandibular nerve and other critical structures. Dr. Miles' extensive medical training ensures safe, accurate placement of every injection. Only authentic, FDA-approved Kybella sourced directly from Allergan is used at Thrive.
