BELKYRA™

Belkyra™ is the first and only FDA and Health Canada approved injectable drug that contours and improves the appearance of submental fullness due to submental fat, sometimes referred to as a “double chin”.  Submental fullness is a common, yet undertreated, facial aesthetic condition which can detract from an otherwise balanced facial appearance and lead to an older and heavier look.

By permanently destroying fat cells Belkyra™ refines facial contours and redefines the profile for a more harmonious, youthful appearance.

In the United States Belkyra™ is marketed under the trade name Kybella™. Canada and the US are currently the only countries in the world where Belkyra non-surgical injectable treatments are available. 

Belkyra™ is a formulation of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into subcutaneous fat, Belkyra™ causes the destruction of fat cells. Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat.

Dr. Rowen tailors each treatment to the patient’s aesthetic goals to improve the chin profile. Belkyra™ is injected into the fat beneath the chin, and a local anesthetic is used to ensure patient comfort.

Each in-office treatment takes approximately 30 minutes. Most patients require two to four sessions, spaced at least four weeks apart.

Results appear as early as 6 weeks and are permanent once the treatment series is complete.

The most common side effects include mild swelling, redness, bruising, pain, numbness, or firmness in the treated area. These reactions are temporary, but swelling may last for several days—so it’s recommended to plan accordingly for social or professional activities.

Numbness or tenderness can occur after each session, but most patients notice visible improvements after 2 to 4 treatments.

• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the treated area for 10–15 minutes after treatment.
• Avoid touching or massaging the treated area for 24 hours, including the application of makeup, creams, or moisturizers.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity for 24 hours after treatment.

Rare side effects of Belkyra™ may include:

• Swelling and temporary nerve injury in the jaw area, which can cause an asymmetric smile or facial muscle weakness (4%).
• Superficial skin ulcerations at injection sites.
• Small patches of hair loss (alopecia) in the treated area.
• In rare cases, visible deformities such as asymmetry of the treated area or prominence of platysmal bands (neck muscles).
• Increased skin laxity or excess skin in the neck has not been observed in clinical trials, but this remains a possible risk whenever fat is removed.
• About 50% of neck fat is located beneath the muscle. Belkyra™ injections do not target this deeper fat, and some residual volume may remain.