Kybella™
in Grand Rapids, MI
The first and only injectable treatment FDA-approved to permanently destroy fat cells in targeted areas. Ideal for reducing submental fullness (under the chin) and small, stubborn pockets of fat elsewhere on the body.
About Kybella
Kybella is an FDA-indicated injectable treatment designed to reduce moderate to severe fullness under the chin — commonly known as a “double chin.” It works as a cytolytic drug, meaning it breaks down fat cells in the submental area to improve the appearance of your chin profile.
Kybella is injected directly into the fat beneath the chin, and most patients need more than one session to reach their desired outcome. Treatments are spaced at least one month apart, and your provider will determine how many sessions are right for you — typically between 2 and 6 treatments.
Potential Side Effects of Kybella
As with any injectable treatment, Kybella comes with some expected side effects and potential risks. Common side effects include:
- Swelling, bruising, redness, or tenderness at the injection site — these usually improve within a week or two
- Pain, numbness, or headache around the treated area
- Hematoma (blood pooling) at the injection site, particularly if blood-thinning medications are used
Although rare, more serious complications can occur, including Marginal Mandibular Nerve injury, which may cause an asymmetrical smile or temporary facial muscle weakness, and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). While sterile equipment and standard safety protocols are always used, there is a small risk of infection at the injection site, so it is important to notify our office immediately if the area becomes increasingly red, hot, or painful. In some patients, numbness and swelling may persist longer than other side effects.
Before Your Kybella Appointment
To help minimize bruising and support the best possible results, please follow these guidelines 5–7 days before your appointment:
- Avoid vitamins and supplements — especially Omega-3, Vitamin E, Ginseng, Ginkgo Biloba, and St. John’s Wort
- Avoid aspirin, aspirin-based products, and NSAIDs such as Advil®, Aleve®, Motrin®, and Excedrin®
- Start Arnica supplements two days before your treatment — the topical cream is also recommended to further reduce bruising
- Do not wear makeup to your appointment
- Plan around any upcoming events — discuss timing with your provider ahead of time, as swelling and bruising may be visible in the days following treatment
If you have any active infections, severe allergies, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, please let your provider know before proceeding.
After Care Instructions for Kybella
Following your Kybella session, these steps will help you recover comfortably and get the most from your treatment:
- Avoid exercise for at least 24 hours after treatment
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and salty foods for at least 48 hours
- Do not rub, massage, or scrub the injection area for 24 hours
- Continue to avoid aspirin, NSAIDs, and anti-inflammatories for 3–5 days after treatment — use Tylenol® for pain relief if needed
Ice the area for 3–5 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours to help with comfort - Elevate your head on 1–2 pillows to help reduce swelling
- Apply Arnica cream to the treated area for up to two weeks following treatment
- Avoid facials, chemical peels, and laser treatments for 14 days after your session
Results develop gradually, and additional treatments will be needed to maintain improvement over time.
Your Safety is Our Priority
Your safety and comfort guide everything we do. Our injection specialists are extensively trained and follow strict sterile protocols with every Kybella treatment. Before we begin, we review your full health history and ensure you are a strong candidate for the procedure.
We are transparent about what Kybella can and cannot do — no guarantees are made about results, because every patient is different. What we do promise is attentive, personalized care at every stage of your treatment journey.
If you have questions or concerns before, during, or after your appointment, our team is always here to support you.
Interested in Extra Savings on Kybella?
Earn points on Kybella and other treatments by joining the Allē Rewards program. Use your points for discounts on future visits..
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to take the next step, or just have a few questions? We’d love to hear from you. Call us at 616-454-1256 to chat with our team, or click the button to fill out our contact form to reach our office. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!