Kybella is a non-surgical injection that dissolves fat under the chin for a slimmer, more defined jawline. There’s little to no downtime, and most people return to normal activities within 1–2 days. In this article, we’ll break down what Kybella recovery looks like, what to expect after treatment, and how to recover smoothly.
What is Kybella?
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable that breaks down and destroys fat cells under the chin. The active ingredient is deoxycholic acid, a substance your body already uses to absorb fat.
When Kybella is injected into the fat beneath the chin, it destroys fat cells permanently. Once those cells are gone, they can’t store or accumulate fat again. That means long-lasting results with no surgery or downtime.
At LiveWell, we’ve helped many patients define their jawlines with Kybella. It’s quick, effective, and tailored to your chin and jawline goals.
Kybella Recovery Time: What to Expect
Recovery from Kybella is minimal, but some side effects are expected as your body breaks down and clears away fat cells. Here’s what you can expect day by day and week by week after your Kybella treatment:
Day 1–2
- Swelling peaks. Your chin may feel full or look puffy. But don’t worry, it’s normal. Some tenderness, redness, or slight bruising may show up.
- You can go back to work or daily tasks, but avoid exercise and social events if you’re concerned about appearance.
Day 3–7
- Swelling starts to go down. Bruising and tenderness improve. Some numbness or firmness under the chin may still be present.
- Many patients feel confident resuming regular routines by the end of the week.
Week 2–3
- Most visible swelling is gone. Any lingering firmness or small lumps under the skin begin to soften. Numbness continues to fade.
Week 4–6
- You’ll start to see noticeable results as the body fully metabolizes the destroyed fat cells. The area looks slimmer and more defined.
Week 6+
- If additional sessions are needed, your provider may schedule your next round. Most people need 2–4 treatments spaced at least one month apart for optimal results.
What to Do After Your Kybella Treatment
Taking care of the area under your chin helps reduce swelling and speeds up recovery. Here’s how to care for your skin post-treatment:
- Keep your head elevated. Sleep with an extra pillow to help reduce swelling.
- Apply cold packs. Use ice or a cold compress for 15–20 minutes at a time during the first 24–48 hours.
- Avoid touching the area. No rubbing, massaging, or pressure on your chin.
- Skip intense workouts. Avoid heavy exercise, hot tubs, and saunas for at least 48 hours.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water and stick to anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens and berries.
- Avoid alcohol and salty foods. These can increase swelling and slow recovery.
Should I Be Concerned About the Side Effects of Kybella?
Kybella comes with a few common side effects. Most are mild and go away on their own. The most common side effects include:
- swelling
- tenderness
- light bruising
- numbness
- firmness or small lumps
These side effects are short-lived and usually clear up within a few weeks. Less common side effects include redness or itching. Some patients might experience nerve irritation. This is very rare, but it’s important to let your provider know if anything feels off.
Where to Get Your Kybella Treatments in South Dakota
Kybella may be quick, but it’s not something you want just anyone doing. Picking the right provider makes all the difference in your results and your recovery. Before booking, here are a few key questions to ask:
- How often do they perform Kybella treatments?
You want someone who does this often, not just occasionally. Ask how many Kybella treatments they’ve done and if they have before-and-afters to show you.
- Are they medically licensed and trained for this?
Make sure your injector is licensed and trained to perform medical-grade treatments. A board-certified provider is even better, but they also come at higher costs.
- Do they have a good eye for balance?
It’s not just about getting rid of fat—it’s about shaping your jawline. Choose someone who understands facial harmony and customizes your treatment.
- Do they provide clear, honest guidance?
A great provider will walk you through what to expect, how many sessions you might need, and whether Kybella is even the right fit for you.
- What support is available after your appointment?
Things like swelling, bruising, or questions might pop up. You want a provider who’s easy to reach and there to help post-treatment.
We’ve treated many happy Kybella patients at our practice and love helping people feel more confident in their chin profile without surgery. We welcome every Kybella patient with clear info, personalized plans, and five-star patient care from start to finish.
Call us at 605-545-9020 to book your Kybella appointment today. Find us at 811 Columbus St., Rapid City, SD 57701. We also serve nearby areas, including Box Elder, Sturgis, Spearfish, and Hot Springs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kybella
How long does swelling last with Kybella?
Swelling usually peaks in the first 1–2 days after treatment. Most of it goes down within a week, but mild swelling or firmness can last up to 2 weeks. It’s completely normal and part of the fat breakdown process.
How many Kybella treatments will I need?
Most people need 2–4 sessions spaced about a month apart. Some may need up to 6 for full results.
Does Kybella hurt?
You may feel mild stinging or burning during the injection, but it’s quick and tolerable. We often numb the injection sites to ease any discomfort.
Is Kybella permanent?
Yes. Once fat cells are destroyed, they don’t come back. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results.
When will I see results from Kybella?
Most people start seeing visible changes around 4–6 weeks after treatment. Full results show after multiple sessions.
Can Kybella be used anywhere else on the body?
Right now, it’s only FDA-approved for under the chin. Off-label use should be discussed carefully with your provider.
How much does Kybella cost?
Cost varies depending on how much fat needs to be treated and how many sessions you need. A consultation is the best way to get a personalized quote.
Before And After Pictures of Kybella
Kybella, Masseter tox, and dermal filler came together to define her jawline, project the chin, and add soft volume to the cheeks. This is what full-face, multi-modal rejuvenation looks like!