The Breakdown of The Chin Shot

FDA approved a new drug called Kybella, also known as ATX-101, manufactured by the Kythera Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. for the treatment of adipose fat in the chin region. Some may say it is the new non-surgical answer to removing that ugly double chin. The unattractive double chin is an issue not just affecting morbidly obese people. The double chin affects everyone – male and females of all ages. Kybella has been approved as a safe alternative to surgical methods used for removal of fat under the chin, such as liposuction surgery. Over more than 2 years, many clinical trials were held to establish its safety and efficacy. The studies worked with various patients with double chin problem. The results were incredible. About 68.2 percent of the patients responded very effectively to the therapy. Kybella works by melting the accumulated fat. In the following text, the mode of action of the drug by Kythera is discussed.

The drug basically follows the natural principles of fat dissolution in the body. The human body produces a substance known as deoxycholic acid. This acid is responsible for the breakdown of the excess fat deposits in the body. Deoxycholic acid specifically targets the cell membranes of the adipose cells. It penetrates the fat cells causing them to burst and die. Kybella, the drug developed by Kythera, works along the same lines. Deoxycholic acid in Kybella injections causes the fat cells to burst, thus removing the fat accumulated in the submental space.

The drug is injected by a skilled professional like Dr. Rajani from Portland, Oregon. The target site is carefully reviewed and marked before the procedure is carried out since the drug is effective for use only in the submental region. Multiple injections (maximum 50) can be injected in a single treatment session. More than one session may be recommended if the amount of accumulated fat is large. Each injection is designed to deliver 2 milligrams/cm2 of the injection site. A small sterile needle is used for the purpose of injecting the drug. It contains colorless, sterile solution containing deoxycholic acid as the active ingredient. The injection sites are usually spaced 1 cm apart.

Extreme care is exercised by Dr. Rajani to inject only the subcutaneous fat, without injuring the surrounding structures. Proper administration of the injection minimizes the risk of nerve (specially the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve that lies in the vicinity), muscle, salivary glands, lymph nodes and other local tissue injuries. As shown by the clinical trials, the method has been declared an instant success for treatment of double chin. It is expected to save hundreds of dollars on the part of patients and rule the cosmetic industry in the long run.

For more information on the double chin shot procedure and/or to schedule a complimentary consult with Dr. Rajani in Portland – Oregon, please call 503.303.8313 or email experts@rajanimd.com.