Woman touching neck and jawline after kybella treatment

Kybella in Petaluma & Hercules

What is Kybella?

Kybella is the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to eliminate submental fat, commonly known as a double chin. At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, our board-certified dermatologists use this revolutionary treatment to help patients achieve a more defined, contoured jawline without surgery. The treatment is injected below the chin to permanently destroy fat cells, and while there will be some initial swelling, your facial profile will become sharper and more tailored over the following weeks.

How Kybella Works

Kybella contains a naturally occurring substance that your body already uses to break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath your chin, it specifically targets these unwanted fat cells, causing them to break down and be naturally eliminated by your body’s lymphatic system over several weeks.

The Science Behind Fat Cell Destruction

Targeted Action: The treatment specifically targets fat cells while sparing surrounding tissues
Permanent Results: Once fat cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate or store fat
Natural Process: The body eliminates dead fat cells through normal metabolic processes
Gradual Improvement: Results develop progressively over 4-6 weeks after each treatment

Because the fat cells are permanently eliminated, Kybella provides lasting results that don’t require maintenance treatments once the desired outcome is achieved.

Ideal Candidates for Kybella

Kybella works best for patients who have:

Submental fullness: Noticeable fat beneath the chin that is bothersome
Adequate skin elasticity: Skin that can contract after fat removal
Realistic expectations: Understanding that results develop gradually over months
Good overall health: No active infections or medical contraindications

Lifestyle Factors

Stable weight: Results are best maintained with consistent body weight
Non-smokers: Smoking can impair healing and lymphatic drainage
Commitment to treatment: Willingness to complete the recommended series of sessions

Kybella Treatment Process We Offer In Our Petaluma and Hercules Clinics

During your initial consultation, our dermatologists will assess your submental anatomy and evaluate the amount and distribution of fat beneath your chin. We will examine your skin quality to determine elasticity and potential for good contraction, discuss your expectations, and review realistic outcomes and treatment timeline. This comprehensive evaluation enables us to create a personalized treatment plan and determine the optimal number of sessions required for effective results.

Each treatment session is designed with your comfort in mind. The treatment area is cleansed and marked with injection points, followed by the application of topical numbing cream and ice for patient comfort. The injection process involves multiple small injections made in a grid pattern beneath the chin, with each session typically taking 15-30 minutes. We provide immediate post-treatment ice and detailed care instructions to help you manage the recovery process.

Most patients require 2-4 treatment sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart for optimal results. The treatment amount is customized based on the volume of submental fat, and we assess your progress at each visit to adjust the treatment plan as needed. This personalized approach ensures you achieve the best possible outcome for your unique facial anatomy.

What to Expect After Treatment and Results

After your Kybella treatment, significant swelling is normal in the first 24-48 hours—this indicates the treatment is working. The area will be sore, firm, and may feel numb temporarily. Peak swelling occurs during the first week, then gradually subsides over weeks 2-3. By weeks 4-6, most swelling resolves and early results become visible.

To manage recovery, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times daily for the first few days, sleep with your head elevated, avoid touching the treated area, and use over-the-counter pain relievers as needed for comfort.

Results develop gradually over time. Initial fat reduction becomes visible at 4-6 weeks, with more significant improvement at 8-12 weeks. Final results from each session are achieved at 3-4 months, with complete series results fully realized at 6+ months. You’ll see an improved profile with a more defined jawline and neck contour that looks natural, not surgical.

The results are permanent because treated fat cells are destroyed and cannot regenerate. Most patients require 2-4 sessions for optimal results, and maintaining a stable weight helps preserve their improved profile in the long term.

Dermatology Associates of the bay area doctors, pa, aesthetician, and staff. Group image outside.

Why Choose Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area?

Kybella treatment requires precision, experience, and a thorough understanding of facial anatomy. Our team of board-certified dermatologists brings extensive experience with injectables to every Kybella treatment.

Choose a trusted dermatology practice committed to exceptional care and long-term skin health.

What sets us apart:

Board-Certified Dermatologists — Our dermatologists have completed rigorous training and certification to deliver the highest level of aesthetic care. Our medical colleagues recognize our expertise, and as such, we have been recipients of Castle Connolly Top Doctors.
Injectable Expertise — With extensive experience in facial injectables, we understand the precise anatomy and technique required for safe, effective Kybella treatments.
Patient-Focused Approach — Every treatment plan is customized to fit your unique anatomy, concerns, and aesthetic goals for optimal jawline enhancement.
Comprehensive Care — We offer complete aesthetic services, allowing us to combine Kybella with other treatments for comprehensive facial enhancement.
Proven Results — Our experience with advanced aesthetic treatments ensures you receive expert care for natural-looking fat reduction and profile improvement.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many Kybella treatments will I need?

Most patients require 2-4 treatment sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart for optimal results. The exact number depends on the amount of submental fat and your aesthetic goals. Our dermatologists assess your progress at each visit to determine when you’ve achieved your desired outcome.

What are the side effects of Kybella?

The most common side effects include swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, and firmness in the treatment area. These effects are temporary and typically resolve within 2-4 weeks. Serious side effects are rare when treatment is performed by experienced medical professionals.

How long do Kybella results last?

Kybella results are permanent because the treated fat cells are destroyed and cannot regenerate. However, significant weight gain can cause remaining fat cells to enlarge, potentially affecting your results. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your improved profile long-term.

Can Kybella be combined with other treatments?

Yes! Kybella combines well with other facial enhancement procedures. Many patients benefit from combining Kybella with dermal fillers for jawline definition, or with neurotoxins for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Our dermatologists can create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

How does Kybella compare to surgical options?

Kybella offers a non-surgical alternative to liposuction or neck lift surgery with no incisions, anesthesia, or lengthy recovery. While surgical options provide more dramatic, immediate results, Kybella offers gradual, natural-looking improvement with minimal downtime and lower risk.