3 Reasons Kybella® is a Game Changer

In the aesthetic enhancement world, the news of Kybella®’s FDA approval was unavoidable. Unlike Botox, which yields results that last for up to six months in as few as four days, Kybella ® results are noticeable at four to six weeks and last for years, which means that once treatment outcomes are achieved, additional treatments shouldn’t be needed. The hype around the new treatment is so big that even mainstream TV took note:

Kathie Lee and Hoda watch plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Glatt perform a new FDA-approved treatment for neck fat, called Kybella®, on two patients, live on TODAY.

The word is out to say the least. Here are three reasons Kybella ® represents an evolution in aesthetic enhancement:

1. New Treatment

So why not inject Kybella ® all over? As of right now, it’s indicated only for the submental fat (double chin). But stay tuned; a similar substance may be in the pipeline for use below the neck.

According to the website:

KYBELLA ® (deoxycholic acid) injection is indicated for improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe convexity or fullness associated with submental fat in adults.

In nearly every mention of what Kybella ® was approved for comes a quick reminder that Kybella® is only approved for that specific region:

The safe and effective use of KYBELLA ® for the treatment of subcutaneous fat outside the submental region has not been established and is not recommended.

Once the cat is out of the bag, there is really no putting it back. Less ethical and legally minded aesthetic practitioners will start experimenting with Kybella ® in other regions where liposuction isn’t an option. While the reviews have been great so far, we expect to see some headlines where people use these treatments off-label or poorly administer them and lawsuits will follow, like Botox. As long as practitioners are properly trained and stick to FDA guidelines, practices should experience an influx of…

2. New Clientele

According to a New York Post article:

“Forty percent of my [Kybella ®] patients are men. On some days, it’s even more men than women,” says Dr. Sachin Shridharani, an Upper East Side-based plastic surgeon who has treated 30 patients, including Kristian, with Kybella ® since its June 15 release. Typically, male patients make up less than 10 percent of his practice.

Men and other segments of people who wouldn’t consider aesthetic enhancements before Kybella ® are going to visit. With this new wave of people, patient selection will be more important than ever. Good outcomes can be a rising tide that raises all the ships, but a few bad outcomes can be enough to cast a shadow over everyone.

3. New Trend

Kybella® represents a welcome change in the aesthetic enhancement industry. The treatment was approved and brought to market much faster than prior treatments. Aestheticians hope this a sign that innovation and regulations are accelerating. With new treatments on the horizon, practices should have more opportunities for growth.