Kybella in NYC
Dr. Michelle Zweifler is a board-certified plastic surgeon with an office on Park Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, welcoming patients from across New York City.
Overview
Kybella® (deoxycholic acid) is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that permanently destroys fat cells beneath the chin, addressing the fullness commonly known as a double chin. It’s a non-surgical option for patients who want a sharper, more defined jawline without liposuction or a neck lift. Because Dr. Zweifler is a plastic surgeon, she can also tell you honestly when a surgical approach would serve you better.
Am I a Candidate?
Good candidates are bothered by fullness under the chin from fat (rather than loose skin or muscle banding, which Kybella doesn’t address) and are looking for a non-surgical solution. The best candidates have a soft, pinchable pocket of fat beneath the chin and reasonably good skin tone. Dr. Zweifler will examine your chin and neck at your consultation to confirm that Kybella is the right fit. Kybella is generally not recommended if you have an infection in the area, certain medical conditions affecting bleeding or swallowing, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The Procedure
Kybella is injected in a series of small injections of deoxycholic acid directly into the fat beneath the chin, destroying fat cells to create a more contoured, youthful jawline over a series of treatment sessions. The treatment area is carefully mapped and numbed for comfort, and each session takes only a short time in the office. Sessions are typically spaced about a month apart.
Recovery & Results
Swelling, and sometimes bruising or numbness, under the chin is common for several days to a couple of weeks after each treatment, with no significant downtime from normal activities. Many patients wear a scarf or high collar for the first few days. Fat cells treated with Kybella are permanently destroyed, and results develop gradually over the weeks and months following treatment as the body clears them away.
Real Patient Results
Before and after one Kybella treatment.
Before
After (1 Treatment)
Results shown are examples from Dr. Zweifler’s patients; individual results will vary. Patients’ eyes are covered to protect their privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Kybella sessions will I need?
Most patients need a series of treatments, spaced about a month apart, for full results. The number of sessions depends on how much fat is under your chin; some patients see a meaningful change after one or two treatments, while others need several. Dr. Zweifler will estimate a treatment plan at your consultation.
Are Kybella results permanent?
Yes. The fat cells destroyed by Kybella don’t return, though future weight gain can still add fat to the treated area.
Does Kybella hurt?
Most patients describe stinging, burning, or pressure during the injections. Numbing is used to keep you comfortable, and treatment sessions are short. Soreness and tenderness afterward are common but usually manageable.
How much swelling should I expect?
Swelling under the chin is the most noticeable effect and can be significant for the first several days, sometimes giving the area a rounder, fuller look before it improves. Most swelling settles within one to two weeks, and you can plan treatments around social or work events accordingly.
What are the possible side effects and risks?
Common side effects include swelling, bruising, numbness, redness, firmness, and tenderness in the treated area. Less common risks include temporary weakness of the muscles at the corner of the mouth, which can cause an uneven smile, and difficulty swallowing. Skin injury is rare. Dr. Zweifler’s training as a plastic surgeon and knowledge of the anatomy of the jawline help guide safe, precise placement.
Is Kybella better than liposuction or a neck lift?
It depends on you. Kybella works best for a modest to moderate pocket of fat beneath the chin in patients with good skin elasticity. If you have a larger amount of fat, loose skin, or visible neck bands, liposuction, a neck lift, or a combination may give a better result. Dr. Zweifler will recommend the option that fits your anatomy and goals, even if that isn’t Kybella.
