Liposuction vs Kybella: What You Need to Know
Liposuction is to plastic surgery like Botox is to The Real Housewives® franchise: all too popular. Liposuction is a common cosmetic surgery that countless have used to finally get the body they desire... but how does it compare to less invasive options like Kybella?
Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of two popular fat-loss procedures: the classic liposuction and the newer Kybella. Read on to learn the pros and cons of each.
What's the difference between Liposuction & Kybella?
The biggest difference is that liposuction is a more invasive option as it is a surgical procedure, while Kybella is a non-invasive injectable treatment.
In short, liposuction is a surgery that uses a suction technique to remove fat from specific areas of the body. Liposuction is often performed in the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms, or neck. It's also referred to as lipoplasty and body contouring. (Source)
On the other hand, Kybella is the only FDA-approved injectable treatment that destroys fat cells where it's administered. It's commonly used under the chin to improve your profile and to banish the infamous double-chin.
How are Liposuction and Kybella similar? Well, they are both used to remove stubborn fat that hasn't responded well to diet and exercise. They're not designed to be overall weight-loss alternatives, but rather aids to improve and slim a specific area of the body.
What do I need to know about Liposuction?
Liposuction is a serious procedure that comes along with some amazing results, but there are risks involved.
Since it's a surgical procedure, liposuction brings all the normal risks associated with going under the knife and anesthesia like bleeding, risk of infection, or necrosis of the skin. But there are a few other complications that aren't so obvious…
First, if your skin is thin with poor elasticity (aka most every woman experiencing aging and collagen loss), your skin might not reattach. When fat cells are removed during liposuction, your skin is intended to mold to the new contours of your body. However, it doesn't always turn out. This is rarely the case if you seek out treatment from an experienced plastic surgeon with verifiable results from happy patients 😃. I’ve worked with some of the most talented plastic surgeons, and I can tell you that you would be in good hands with them!
It’s also worth noting that liposuction doesn't improve cellulite dimpling or other skin surface irregularities like stretch marks. If you consider the gravity of choosing surgery, be aware that you might fit into those skinny jeans, but your skin's appearance is the same in a bikini. Further cosmetic treatments might be necessary to address cellulite.
The rare (but potentially serious) side effects of liposuction
According to the Mayo Clinic, possible complications specific to liposuction include:
Permanent contour irregularities: Bumpy, wavy, or withered skin due to uneven fat removal, poor skin elasticity, and unusual healing.
Fluid accumulation: Temporary fluid pockets can form under the skin that need to be drained with a needle. Pleasant.
Numbness: You may feel temporary or permanent numbness in the affected area.
Internal punctures: Rarely, a cannula can penetrate too deeply and puncture an internal organ requiring emergency surgery.
Fat embolism: Pieces of loose fat may break off and gather in the lungs or hitch a ride to the brain. It's another medical emergency.
Kidney and heart problems. Suctioning out fat messes with fluid levels which can cause potentially life-threatening kidney, heart, and lung problems.
It's not surprising though. Surgery is a serious decision because of the risk it involves. Of course, medical science has come a long way and these risks can be small, however, they're still on the table.
Non-invasive injectable procedures like Kybella are a much safer alternative to Liposuction.
Like I said, I work for and have previously worked with some incredibly talented plastic surgeons whom I would trust with my own life! PLEASE feel free to reach out if you need a recommendation for a talented plastic surgeon in Pennsylvania.
What is a less-invasive alternative to Liposuction?
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable that targets fat cells. To get technical, it is a non-human, non-animal derived version of deoxycholic acid. That is a naturally occurring enzyme found in all of us that helps break down fat and absorb it. Yes please, take it away!
Like liposuction, it's an effective fat-loss solution that tackles the problem at the source. Although, rather than vacuuming it out of you, Kybella dissolves it on site, and your body will eliminate it.
Cons:
After injections, you can expect massive swelling for 2-3 days and moderate to mild swelling for up to 2 weeks, temporary numbness in the area for up to 4 weeks.
You should also know about the potential for nerve damage - a very small risk but, a risk, nonetheless.
I always tell my patients to buy a nice scarf or turtleneck lol. But now with face masks due to Covid-19, it’s an even better time to jump on the Kybella wagon. Kybella continues to work and produce results up to 6 months after your first treatment!
🙌🏼 Hands down, Kybella is one of my favorite treatments because it works wonders for slimming the face without going under the knife. It's non-invasive, done in-office, and the risks are minimal.
Curious about Kybella in Philadelphia?
Book a FREE consultation with me and I'd be happy to walk through the process with you. If you're unhappy with your chin or minimal abdominal fat and don't want surgery, Kybella could be your solution!
-xoxo Jen