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Kybella in Irvine, CA

Expert Surgeons
4.9 Google Rating
Serving Orange County Since 2012

About Kybella

Kybella is an injectable treatment that targets and dissolves the fat responsible for a double chin—no surgery required. Ideal for adults bothered by submental fullness, Kybella gradually contours the jawline for a slimmer, more defined profile. Treatments are quick, recovery is minimal, and results are long-lasting because the treated fat cells are permanently destroyed.

Procedure Quick Facts

Duration of Procedure:
15-20 minutes
Anesthesia:
Topical numbing or none
Recovery:
Mild swelling and bruising for 2-3 days
Results Duration:
Permanent fat cell reduction

What is Kybella?

Kybella is the first and only injectable treatment specifically designed to reduce submental fat—the pocket of fullness beneath the chin commonly called a double chin. The active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When carefully injected into the submental area, Kybella destroys unwanted fat cells. Your body then flushes the cellular debris through natural metabolic processes, and the treated fat cells cannot return. Most patients see optimal improvements after a personalized series of treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. Kybella offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgical neck contouring procedures. Because the fat reduction happens gradually, the overlying skin has time to retract, helping maintain a smooth, firm neck contour without surgical lifting or liposuction.

What Kybella Can Do for You

If you're considering Kybella, South Coast Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through every step. Dr. Mark Song and our highly trained aesthetic nurse injectors will work closely with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your concerns and helps you achieve a slimmer, more defined profile.
  • Non-Surgical Double-Chin Reduction
    Kybella eliminates unwanted submental fullness without incisions, stitches, or anesthesia recovery. You can return to most normal activities quickly, avoiding the downtime associated with liposuction.
  • Permanent Fat Cell Destruction
    Once Kybella destroys the targeted fat cells, they cannot regenerate. As long as your weight remains stable, your new jawline contour is expected to last for years.
  • Gradual, Natural-Looking Improvement
    Because fat reduction occurs over several weeks, the transformation appears organic. Friends and family notice a fresher look without obvious signs of having had a procedure.
  • Enhanced Facial Harmony and Confidence
    A slimmer neck and sharper jawline can improve overall facial balance, allowing you to feel more confident in photos, video calls, and everyday interactions.
  • Quick Treatment Sessions
    Most appointments take less than 30 minutes—ideal for busy professionals and parents who want effective results without sacrificing their schedules.
  • Skin Tightening as Fat Dissolves
    As fat cells are gradually removed, the overlying skin often tightens, reducing the risk of loose skin and supporting a smoother profile.

Kybella Videos

Watch our videos to see real patients results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.

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Key Benefits of Kybella

Permanently removes submental fat to create a slimmer, well-defined jawline profile.
Offers a nonsurgical solution that avoids scars, sutures, and general anesthesia downtime.
Allows progressive fat reduction that lets surrounding skin naturally retract for smooth results.
Quick in-office injections fit easily into a lunch break, supporting busy lifestyles.

Types of Kybella

Full Series Kybella Treatment

Most patients benefit from two to four Kybella sessions scheduled four to six weeks apart. Each session targets the full submental area with custom-mapped injections. This approach is ideal for individuals with moderate to significant fullness who want a comprehensive fat-reduction outcome.

Touch-Up Kybella Session

After completing the initial series, a smaller touch-up session may be performed to refine contour or address minor residual pockets. Touch-ups use fewer injection points and product volume, making them quick and comfortable.

Kybella Combination Therapy

Kybella can be paired with skin-tightening treatments such as radiofrequency microneedling or Ultherapy to further enhance neck definition. Combination therapy addresses both fat and skin laxity, providing a more comprehensive rejuvenation for suitable candidates.

Not sure which option is right for you?

Meet your Kybella surgeons

Dr. Mark Song and our aesthetic nurse injectors specialize in advanced, evidence-based injectable treatments. Their precise technique and deep understanding of facial anatomy ensure Kybella is delivered safely and effectively for a natural, sculpted neck contour.

Why Choose South Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Kybella?

Beauty Inside-Out

We care for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every treatment is provided with warmth and exceptional care to help you feel confident and supported

Clear Expectations from the Start

Share your goals in detail before you even arrive using Adoreal's personalized assessment. Your specialist will understand exactly what you're hoping to achieve before your consultation begins, making your visit more focused and personal

Dedicated Follow-Up Support

Your care doesn't end when you leave our office. Our team provides personalized check-ins to monitor your results, answer any questions, and make sure you're completely satisfied with your outcome.

Precision & Artistry

Your treatment is performed by highly trained specialists
who understand facial anatomy at the deepest level. We combine technical precision with an artistic eye to enhance your natural beauty while keeping you looking like you

A Customized Approach to Injectable Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch

No two double chins are exactly alike. We evaluate fat thickness, skin elasticity, and chin projection to design a Kybella plan that brings your jawline into perfect balance with your facial features.

Before your consultation, you can complete a brief personalized assessment from home, helping us understand your specific goals, concerns, and timeline.

Comprehensive MedSpa Experience

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored to your unique goals from the moment you walk in.

Our surgeon will also assess individual factors such as fat thickness, skin laxity, and chin projection, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.

Am I a good candidate for Kybella?

Your consultation is a private, personalized experience designed around your goals.
• Noticeable submental fullness
• Good overall health with no active infections
• Realistic expectations about gradual results
• Willingness to follow aftercare instructions
• Non-smoker or able to avoid smoking post-treatment
• Stable body weight
• No difficulty swallowing or existing neck infections

Help us understand your unique goals & concerns.

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.

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Your Concerns

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Your Kybella Journey and Recovery

Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment

Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or one of our expert injectors. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you'd like to see and whether Kybella is the right solution for your concerns.

During your consultation, your provider will:

  • Discuss your aesthetic goals and desired profile
  • Examine fat distribution and skin quality under the chin
  • Review your medical history and current medications
  • Explain the Kybella process, expected sessions, and outcomes
  • Provide a personalized treatment and cost plan

Together, you'll create a treatment plan tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, with safety and realistic outcomes as the priority.

The Kybella Procedure

Topical numbing cream or a small amount of injectable anesthetic keeps you comfortable during the quick in-office treatment.

During the procedure:

  • The treatment area is cleansed and marked with a customized injection grid
  • A series of small injections deliver Kybella precisely into the submental fat
  • The entire process typically takes 15-20 minutes
  • Ice and gentle pressure are applied immediately afterward to minimize swelling

You can drive yourself home or return to work after the appointment, although mild swelling is expected.

Kybella Recovery Timeline

Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.

Immediately after treatment
Expect warmth, tingling, and noticeable swelling under the chin.

First few days

  • Swelling peaks within 48 hours
  • Mild bruising or tenderness is common
  • Over-the-counter pain relief and ice packs help with comfort

Weeks 1-2
  • Swelling gradually subsides
  • Numbness or firmness may linger but diminishes each week
  • You may schedule your next session after 4-6 weeks

Weeks 3-4

  • Visible contour improvement begins
  • Skin starts to tighten as fat cells are cleared

You'll receive personalized post-treatment instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor progress and plan additional sessions if needed.

Your Kybella Results

Kybella results are visible right away, though your profile will continue to refine as swelling resolves and fat cells metabolize.

Early results
Subtle slimming can appear as soon as four weeks after the first session.

Following weeks
Jawline definition improves steadily, especially after the second or third session.

Final results
Approximately 12 weeks after your final treatment, the full contour change is visible and remains stable provided weight stays consistent.

With proper lifestyle maintenance, your sculpted jawline can be enjoyed for years, helping you feel more confident in every angle.

  • Days 3 - 5
  • Week 1 - 2
  • Week 2 - 3
  • Week 4 - 6

  • Month 2 - 3
  • Month 4 - 6
  • Long time

Kybella Results and Safety Considerations

Understanding how technique, anatomy, and healing affect Kybella results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.

Achieving Natural-Looking Results

Our providers use precise mapping to ensure Kybella targets only unwanted fat while maintaining the natural contours of your neck. Because deoxycholic acid works gradually, fat reduction and skin tightening occur over time, preventing a sudden, artificial look. Your unique anatomy—such as chin projection and skin elasticity—guides the number of sessions and injection sites we recommend. Open communication about your goals guarantees the final outcome aligns with your vision.

Where Are the Incisions?

  • Kybella does not require surgical incisions. Instead, very fine needles deliver the product beneath the skin.
  • No surgical incisions—only micro-injection points

Injection points are tiny and typically close within hours.

Is Scarring a Concern?

Because Kybella is injected through needles, lasting scars are extremely unlikely. Small pinpoint marks may appear but fade quickly as the skin heals.

Injection Mark Healing Timeline

  • Most patients notice the following:
  • Day 1-2
    Redness at injection sites, often hidden by swelling
  • Day 3-7
    Marks lighten to faint pink dots
  • 2-4 weeks
    Any residual discoloration blends with surrounding skin

Keeping the area clean and avoiding picking at the skin supports rapid healing.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Medical examination room with a treatment table covered in white sheets and various medical equipment against the walls.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Kybella is generally safe when administered by an experienced provider in an accredited medical setting. However, as with any injectable treatment, there are potential risks to be aware of.

  • Swelling, bruising, or discomfort
  • Temporary numbness or firmness
  • Redness or itching at injection sites
  • Uneven smile or facial muscle weakness (rare)
  • Trouble swallowing (rare)
  • Infection (very rare)

Your provider will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, injection technique, and follow-up care.

Reducing Your Risk

Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe Kybella experience include:

  • Thorough medical history screening
  • Precise dosing and placement guided by anatomical landmarks
  • Treatment performed by trained, experienced injectors
  • Detailed aftercare instructions and easy access to our team

By following your provider’s recommendations before and after treatment, most patients heal well and are thrilled with their Kybella results.

How Much Does Kybella Cost in Irvine, CA?

The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.

Financing options available through:
Book your consultation

Trusted by Our Community

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4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County

Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.

N. Snoozzz

Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !

Frequently Asked Questions About Kybella

Everything you need to know about Kybella, explained by South Coast Plastic Surgery's experts

About the procedure

How does Kybella destroy fat cells?
Kybella’s active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, breaks down fat cell membranes. Your body then metabolizes and eliminates the destroyed cells naturally.
How many Kybella sessions will I need?
Most patients need two to four sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. The exact number depends on your fat volume and desired contour.
Is Kybella painful?
Patients usually feel mild stinging or warmth during injections. Topical or injectable numbing is provided to enhance comfort.
How long will swelling last after Kybella?
Swelling is most noticeable during the first 48 hours and gradually fades over one to two weeks.

Recovery & Results

When will I see my final results?
Full results appear approximately 12 weeks after your last treatment, once the body clears all destroyed fat cells.
Do I need to wear a chin strap after treatment?
A light compression band may be recommended for comfort and swelling control but is not mandatory for all patients.
What are the rare side effects of Kybella?
Uncommon side effects include temporary facial muscle weakness, uneven smile, or difficulty swallowing. These typically resolve on their own.
How do you ensure Kybella is injected safely?
Our providers follow strict anatomical landmarks and dosing guidelines, and treatments are performed in a medical environment with emergency protocols in place.

Safety & Risks

Is Kybella covered by insurance?
Because Kybella is a cosmetic treatment, insurance does not cover the cost. We offer financing to make payments manageable.
Can I pay per session?
Yes. Many patients choose to pay per session, while others secure package pricing for multiple treatments.
Will the fat come back if I gain weight?
Destroyed fat cells cannot return, but remaining cells can enlarge with weight gain. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your results.
Can I combine Kybella with other treatments?
Absolutely. Skin-tightening procedures, dermal fillers, or neurotoxins can complement Kybella and enhance overall facial balance.

Cost & Insurance

Is Kybella covered by insurance?
Because Kybella is a cosmetic treatment, insurance does not cover the cost. We offer financing to make payments manageable.
Can I pay per session?
Yes. Many patients choose to pay per session, while others secure package pricing for multiple treatments.

Still have questions?

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