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Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that utilizes deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body, to break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the area beneath the chin, Kybella destroys fat cells, preventing them from storing or accumulating fat in the future. Over a series of treatments, most people experience a noticeable reduction in chin fat, improving their overall facial profile.
While Kybella treatment is safe and effective, it’s crucial to follow specific dos and don’ts before and after the procedure to enhance results and reduce complications. This blog will cover what to avoid during each phase of your Kybella journey, ensuring you’re informed every step of the way.
What to Avoid Before Kybella Treatment
Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications and Supplements
One of the most important things to avoid before Kybella treatment is any medication or supplement that can thin the blood, as this can increase the risk of bruising and swelling. Blood-thinning substances include:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Fish oil supplements
- Vitamin E
- St. John’s Wort
- Ginkgo Biloba
It’s recommended that you stop taking these medications or supplements at least 7-10 days before your treatment. However, if you’re taking a blood-thinning medication, consult your doctor before making any changes to your routine.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can increase the risk of bruising and swelling after Kybella treatment because it acts as a blood thinner. To minimize these side effects, avoid consuming alcohol for at least 48 hours before your procedure. Extending this to a week before the treatment may further reduce your risk of bruising and swelling.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking reduces blood circulation, which can slow down the healing process and increase the likelihood of complications such as bruising or poor results. It’s best to avoid smoking for at least one week before your Kybella treatment. Quitting or reducing your smoking habit before and after the procedure can significantly improve the overall outcome.
Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure
The skin under the chin is sensitive, and excessive sun exposure can lead to irritation and inflammation, which may complicate the Kybella procedure. In the days leading up to your treatment, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and always use sunscreen outdoors. This will help prevent any unnecessary irritation or damage to the skin, ensuring that you are ready for your Kybella treatment.
Avoid Facial Treatments
If you’re planning other facial treatments, such as laser therapy, chemical peels, or microneedling, avoid scheduling them too close to your Kybella appointment. Giving your skin time to heal before undergoing another procedure is best. Typically, you should wait at least two weeks after any facial treatments to proceed with Kybella.
What to Avoid Immediately After Kybella Treatment
Avoid Touching or Massaging the Treated Area
After Kybella treatment, it’s essential to avoid touching, pressing, or massaging the treated area under the chin. The injected solution needs time to break down the fat cells without interference, and manipulating the area can lead to uneven results. Additionally, touching the treated area can increase the risk of infection. Be gentle with your skin and allow the Kybella injections to work naturally.
Avoid Strenuous Physical Activity
Strenuous exercise and physical activity increase blood flow and exacerbate swelling, bruising, and discomfort after Kybella treatment. To allow your body to heal and minimize post-procedure side effects, avoid vigorous physical activities such as running, weight lifting, and intense workouts for at least 48 hours after your treatment.
However, light activities like walking are generally safe and can help reduce swelling, so you don’t need to be completely inactive.
Avoid Excessive Heat Exposure
Heat can cause the treated area to swell and may interfere with the healing process. After your Kybella treatment, avoid excessive heat exposure, including:
- Hot showers
- Saunas or steam rooms
- Hot tubs
- Direct sun exposure
Keeping the treated area cool and comfortable will help minimize swelling and speed recovery.
Avoid Lying Down Flat Immediately After Treatment
To help reduce swelling and promote proper healing, avoid lying down flat for the first 4-6 hours after Kybella treatment. Instead, keep your head elevated by sleeping on extra pillows or resting upright. Elevating your head can help decrease fluid accumulation and swelling around the treated area.
Avoid Alcohol
Just as alcohol should be avoided before Kybella treatment, it’s important to continue avoiding it for at least 48 hours after your procedure. Alcohol can increase swelling and bruising, which may delay your recovery. Staying hydrated with water and avoiding alcohol will support your body’s natural healing processes.
Avoid Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
To reduce the risk of bruising and swelling after Kybella injections, avoid taking NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen for at least 48 hours post-treatment. Consult your Kim Bell MedSpa provider for safe alternative recommendations if you need pain relief.
General Post-Treatment Tips for Optimal Results
While avoiding certain activities and substances is crucial for a smooth recovery, there are also proactive steps you can take to enhance your healing and results after Kybella treatment:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush toxins from your body and support your healing process. Hydration is essential for reducing inflammation and ensuring your body can metabolize the destroyed fat cells properly.
- Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress to the treated area can help reduce swelling and discomfort within 24-48 hours after your procedure. Use the compress intermittently, applying it for 10-15 minutes, then allowing a break before reapplying.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Kybella treatment is typically administered in multiple sessions, about 4-6 weeks apart. Be sure to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to assess your progress and determine if additional treatments are necessary for achieving your desired results.
- Patience is Key: Results from Kybella are not immediate, as the fat cells gradually break down and are absorbed by the body over several weeks. You may start to see changes after a few weeks, but full results can take up to 12 weeks. Stick to the post-treatment care plan provided by Kim Bell MedSpa, and be patient as your body transforms.
When to Contact Your Provider
While Kybella is generally a safe and low-risk procedure, monitoring the treated area for any unusual side effects is important. Contact your provider at Kim Bell MedSpa if you experience:
- Severe or prolonged swelling
- Signs of infection (such as redness, warmth, or pus)
- Difficulty swallowing
- Nerve injury (manifesting as facial weakness)
Promptly addressing any concerns can help prevent complications and ensure your treatment goes smoothly.
Ready for a Slimmer, More Defined Jawline?
Kybella treatment is a highly effective way to eliminate unwanted chin fat without surgery. Following the abovementioned pre-and post-treatment guidelines can minimize side effects and achieve the best possible results. If you’re ready to redefine your profile with Kybella, Kim Bell MedSpa will guide you. Schedule Your Kybella Appointment at Kingston, TN.
