If you’ve been bothered by stubborn chin fat that doesn’t seem to budge—no matter how well you eat or how often you work out—you’re not alone. A survey by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery found that over 65% of people are self-conscious about fullness beneath the chin. For many, this leads to the search for a non-surgical solution. That’s where Kybella comes in.
As the only FDA-approved injectable treatment for submental fullness (commonly referred to as a double chin), Kybella is transforming the way people approach fat reduction—without incisions or downtime. But many patients understandably have one big question before committing to treatment:
“Where does the fat actually go after Kybella?”
In this blog, we’ll explore how Kybella works, what happens to the fat cells once treated, and what you can expect from the process at True Jewel Cosmetic Center in Culver City.
Understanding Kybella: What Is It?
Kybella is an injectable medication designed to permanently destroy fat cells under the chin. Its active ingredient is synthetic deoxycholic acid, a substance your body already produces naturally to help absorb and break down dietary fat.
The treatment is FDA-approved specifically for the submental area, but many providers—including those at True Jewel—also use it off-label for small, stubborn fat pockets on the body, such as the jawline, thighs, and lower abdomen.
Unlike liposuction or other surgical options, Kybella offers:
- No incisions
- No general anesthesia
- Minimal downtime
- Long-lasting results
How Kybella Works
The key to Kybella’s effectiveness lies in how deoxycholic acid interacts with fat cells. When injected into targeted fat deposits beneath the skin, deoxycholic acid breaks down the cell membrane. Once the structure of the fat cell is destroyed, the cell can no longer function or store fat.
What happens next? That’s where your body takes over.
Where Does the Fat Go After Kybella?
Once the fat cells have been broken down by deoxycholic acid, they’re no longer viable. Your body recognizes them as waste and naturally processes them through the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
This means the damaged fat cells are gradually:
- Absorbed by nearby immune cells
- Transported to the liver
- Filtered out through the body’s metabolic processes
Essentially, your body treats the fat like any other waste material, clearing it away in a slow, steady, and safe manner over the course of several weeks.
Importantly, once these fat cells are gone, they’re gone for good. Adults do not regenerate new fat cells, so the results of Kybella are considered permanent—as long as a stable weight is maintained.
What to Expect During Your Kybella Treatment
At True Jewel Cosmetic Center, your journey begins with a personalized consultation. We’ll assess your facial structure, talk through your goals, and determine whether Kybella is the right choice for you.
If you’re a good candidate, here’s what the treatment process looks like:
1. Mapping and Preparation
Your True Jewel practitioner will mark the precise injection points under your chin. A topical numbing agent or ice pack is applied to reduce discomfort.
2. The Injections
Using a fine needle, Kybella is injected into the marked areas. You may receive between 20 and 50 small injections in a single session. The entire process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Post-Treatment Effects
Mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising is common after the procedure. These side effects are temporary and often peak within the first few days before gradually subsiding.
4. Results Timeline
The fat breakdown process begins shortly after the injections, but visible results typically appear after 4 to 6 weeks. Most people see optimal results after 2 to 4 sessions spaced about a month apart. Up to six treatments may be recommended, depending on your goals and the amount of submental fat present.
Why Kybella Results Are Long-Lasting
Because Kybella destroys the fat cells themselves, your body cannot store or accumulate fat in those treated areas again. That makes Kybella unique among non-surgical contouring treatments.
However, it’s still possible to gain fat in untreated areas if overall weight increases. To preserve your results, we recommend:
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Staying active
- Avoiding major weight fluctuations
Once you’ve reached your desired aesthetic, touch-ups are rarely necessary—though many patients choose to combine Kybella with treatments like Botox or dermal fillers for even more refined facial definition.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Kybella?
Kybella is ideal for people who:
- Are over 18
- Have moderate to severe fat under the chin
- Are in good general health
- Want a non-surgical solution
- Have realistic expectations about gradual results
You may not be a candidate if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have had recent facial surgery. During your consultation at True Jewel, we’ll review your health history to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate for you.
Is There Any Risk?
While Kybella is generally safe and FDA-approved, like any cosmetic procedure, it comes with some risk of side effects. Common ones include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Numbness
- Redness
- Tenderness
These usually resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as nerve injury or difficulty swallowing can occur, which is why it’s critical to receive treatment from a qualified medical provider.
At True Jewel Cosmetic Center, your injections are performed by trained professionals who prioritize precision, safety, and natural-looking outcomes.
The Bottom Line: Where Does the Fat Go?
So, to answer the question directly: After Kybella, the destroyed fat cells are metabolized and flushed out by your body, never to return. This is what makes Kybella such a powerful and permanent option for treating double chin fat.
If you’re tired of seeing fullness under your chin in every photo or feeling like your jawline lacks definition, Kybella may be the right solution for you. It’s fast, minimally invasive, and delivers lasting improvements—without surgery or downtime.
Book Your Kybella Consultation in Culver City
At True Jewel Cosmetic Center, we specialize in results that feel as good as they look. Our team is here to guide you through the process with expert care, customized treatment planning, and thoughtful attention to detail.
Ready to say goodbye to your double chin?
