women with toned arms

Kybella® has long been known as a targeted treatment to reduce a double chin.  Injections of this synthetic form of deoxycholic acid work well to address stubborn pockets of fat around the jawline and underneath the chin.  These areas are often hard to target through diet and exercise alone.  Kybella® is an ideal non-surgical fat reduction treatment.  However, many people don’t realize that Kybella® can be administered in a number of areas to remove fat cells.  Another popular place for Kybella® treatments is that bubble of fat that can protrude from the armpit and bra line region.

What causes armpit fat?

armpit fat

Fat in the armpit and bra area can be caused by excess weight, hormones, posture, or genetics.  Unfortunately, armpit fat doesn’t usually go away with just diet and exercise.  While a person can work to tone the upper arms and strengthen the muscles, it’s often hard to reduce fat in this one specific area.  Bra fat, or the “bra bulge”, can be embarrassing and bothersome.  It may be visible in swimsuits and tank tops, making women shy away from certain fashions.

What are treatments like?

A full treatment of Kybella® can dissolve those small pockets of unwanted fat near the armpit and around the back.  Several injections will most likely be required, spaced over a few weeks.  The needle is ultra fine, so patients will feel a small prick.  Mild tenderness and swelling may occur for a week or two following each injection.  Treatment sessions take just a few minutes, and patients can return to regular activities immediately.  The troublesome fat pockets will gradually diminish giving the body a more contoured appearance.  Some additional areas that can be treated are the inner knees, lower abdomen, and the pubic area.

How does Kybella® work?

The active ingredient in Kybella® is deoxycholic acid.  When injected into fat, Kybella® will dissolve the fat cells.  The dissolved fat is excreted by the kidneys and intestines and eliminated from the body.  Once these fat cells are destroyed, they can no longer store or accumulate fat.  As long as there is not a significant weight gain, the results will be permanent.  Candidates for Kybella® treatments should be healthy individuals with realistic expectations for their results.

Next steps

Dr. Cristina Keusch and her staff at Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center are dedicated to helping patients achieve greater self confidence in their appearance.  If you are considering Kybella® treatments to address a double chin or perhaps those annoying fat pockets in the armpit or bra line area, contact us today to schedule a consultation.