Double chins may not be life-threatening but these can have negative effects on mental health. You may, for example, be embarrassed because your double chin resembles the large wattles on a turkey. You may even want to hide it behind scarfs and turtlenecks but you can’t wear them every day, after all, so you have to find another better way to get rid of it.
The solution: Kybella, a non-surgical injectable treatment used in removing the fat beneath the chin. Since there are no incisions required, there’s little to no downtime required; in contrast, a chin and neck lift requires prolonged recovery.
But just because it’s a non-surgical method doesn’t mean that it’s suitable for everybody with a double chin! Here are the things that you should do in preparation for your possible Kybella treatment.
Determine If You’re a Suitable Candidate
You have to pass the screening test for Kybella injections although the requirements for being a good candidate are easy enough to meet. You have to be 18 years old and above to qualify for the procedure; underage individuals aren’t allowed even with parental consent because there are no studies to support its safety and effectiveness in them.
You should also have moderate to severe fat under the chin to qualify as a Kybella candidate. If it’s only a mild case, your doctor may advise against it.
You will likely not be considered a good candidate if:
- If you’re planning to have facial surgery of any kind or if you already have it
- If you are either pregnant or nursing
- If you have difficulty swallowing
- If you have an infection or an underlying medical condition in the chin, neck and/or jaw
You shouldn’t force your doctor to perform the injections if you’re not qualified for them. There are other methods to remove your double chin.
Prepare for the Injections
Once your doctor considers that you’re a suitable candidate, the hard part’s over, so to speak. There’s little preparation required for the injections although we recommend the following steps:
- Schedule the date for your injections well before any possible major events, such as a corporate presentation, anniversary, or birthday, unless you’re comfortable showing the slight redness, swelling and bruises in the injection sites.
- Wash your face and neck with mild soap and water before the appointment to reduce the risk of infection. Your doctor will swab the injection site with an antiseptic but it’s still a great idea.
- Don’t take acetaminophen and ibuprofen a few days before your schedule.
On the day of the procedure, your job is to relax and let your doctor do his job.