Kybella is a popular cosmetic procedure used to reduce the appearance of a double chin. It is a non-surgical treatment that involves injecting deoxycholic acid into the submental area to break down fat cells. While the procedure is generally safe and effective, there are still side effects, and one of the most common is swelling, which can be concerning for patients. This blog will explore the duration of Kybella swelling, including its causes, symptoms, and how you will be able to manage it.
What causes Kybella swelling?
Swelling is a common side effect of any injection, including Kybella. During the procedure, deoxycholic acid is injected into the submental area, which can cause tissue trauma and trigger an immune response. As a result, the treated area may become inflamed, leading to swelling, redness, and tenderness. Swelling can also be caused by the injection technique, as the needle may hit a blood vessel, causing a hematoma or bruising.
Symptoms of Kybella swelling
The symptoms of Kybella swelling can vary from patient to patient. Some may experience mild swelling that goes away within a few days, while others may experience more severe swelling that lasts for weeks. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling: The area around the injection site may become swollen, making it difficult to move the head or neck.
- Redness: The skin may become red or discolored due to inflammation.
- Tenderness: The area may be tender to the touch, which can be uncomfortable.
- Itching: Patients may experience itching or tingling in the treated area.
- Numbness: Some patients may experience temporary numbness in the treated area.
How long does Kybella’s swelling last?
The duration of Kybella swelling can vary depending on several factors, including the patient’s age, skin type, and the amount of fat treated. Patients generally expect to experience swelling for up to two weeks or more after the procedure. However, some patients may experience swelling for up to four weeks.
During the first few days after the treatment has been injected, patients may notice that the swelling increases, which is a normal part of the healing process. It is because the body is working to eliminate the fat cells that the Kybella destroyed. As the body metabolizes these cells, the swelling will gradually subside.
Managing Kybella swelling
While swelling is a normal part of the Kybella treatment process, there are several things that patients can do to manage the symptoms and promote healing. Here are some tips for managing Kybella swelling:
- Ice the treated area: Applying an ice pack to the treated area can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Patients should wrap the ice pack in a towel or cloth and apply it to the treated area for 10-15 minutes.
- Keep the head elevated: Patients should keep their heads elevated for the first few days after the procedure to help reduce swelling. This can be done by using a few extra pillows when sleeping or sitting upright in a chair.
- Avoid strenuous activity: Patients should avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity for at least 48 hours after the procedure. It will help reduce the risk of swelling and bruising.
- Wear a compression garment: Some patients may benefit from wearing a compression garment to help reduce swelling and promote healing. The garment must be worn as directed by the provider.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Patients may experience mild discomfort or pain after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers/medicines, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help manage these symptoms.
When to seek medical attention
While Kybella swelling is a normal part of the healing process, There are some cases where patients should seek medical attention. If the swelling is severe, does not improve after a few weeks, or is accompanied by other symptoms, patients should contact their healthcare provider. Other signs to watch out for include the following:
- Severe pain: While mild discomfort is expected after the procedure, severe pain or discomfort should be reported to the provider.
- Infection: If the treated area becomes hot to the touch, oozes pus, or is accompanied by a fever, patients should seek medical attention immediately.
- Allergic reaction: While rare, some patients may experience an allergic reaction to Kybella. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rashes, difficulty breathing, or swelling on the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If these symptoms occur, patients should seek emergency medical attention.
Kybella swelling is a common side effect of the procedure, but it is typically a temporary condition that settles on its own within a few weeks. Patients can manage swelling by using ice packs, keeping their heads elevated, avoiding strenuous activity, wearing compression garments, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. However, patients should seek medical attention if the swelling is severe, does not improve after a few weeks, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain, infection, or an allergic reaction.
It is important to remember that the duration of Kybella swelling can vary from patient to patient, and individual results may vary. While Kybella is a safe and effective treatment for reducing the impression of a double chin, patients should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure and the recovery process.
Before undergoing Kybella treatment, patients should consult a qualified healthcare provider to discuss the procedure’s risks, benefits, and potential side effects. The provider can also provide personalized advice on managing the swelling and promoting healing afterward.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing Kybella swelling is crucial to recovery, and patients can take steps to minimize its effects. Working with a qualified healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice on how to manage the swelling and promote healing after the procedure is essential. At Isla Aesthetics, we offer Kybella treatment as one of our many non-invasive aesthetic solutions. Our licensed, well-experienced, knowledgeable providers can help you achieve your desired appearance and guide you through recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation if you’re interested in learning more about Kybella treatment and how it will help you achieve your desired youthful, beautiful, contoured appearance.
