KYBELLA® vs. Liposuction for a Double Chin: Which Is Better?

Have you ever caught a glimpse of your profile in a photo and thought, “Where did that double chin come from?” Submental fat (the pocket under the chin) can show up even when you’re at a healthy weight, and it’s one of the hardest areas to slim down with diet and exercise alone.

At Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Maria Lombardo offers multiple options to address submental fullness, including KYBELLA® and liposuction. She brings the precision of a board-certified general surgeon and the eye of an artist to every facial contouring treatment.

If you’re having a hard time choosing between KYBELLA and liposuction, this blog will break down both services so you can move forward with confidence. 

How KYBELLA Targets Double Chin Fat

KYBELLA is an FDA-approved injectable that uses deoxycholic acid to break down fat cells under the chin. Once those fat cells are destroyed, they’re gone for good — as long as your weight stays stable.

What to expect with KYBELLA:

• A series of treatments (often multiple sessions spaced at least a month apart)
• Gradual results that improve over time
• Swelling is common after the appointment (sometimes noticeable for several days)

Other common – but temporary – side effects include bruising, pain, numbness, and firmness in the area.

How Double Chin Liposuction Works

Submental liposuction is a minor surgical procedure that removes fat through a small incision beneath the chin. It’s often chosen by patients who want a more immediate, predictable change.

Liposuction may be a better fit if you want:

• A faster “one-and-done” outcome
• More dramatic contouring
• A defined jawline in a shorter timeline

Recovery varies, but swelling is expected early on, with refinement continuing over the next several weeks.

KYBELLA vs. Liposuction: Which Is Better?

The truth? Neither option is “better” for everyone — it comes down to your anatomy and your expectations. Here’s a simple way to compare:

	KYBELLA	Liposuction
Best for people who:	Want a non-surgical treatment Have smaller pockets of fullness Prefer gradual improvement	Want a quicker result Have more noticeable submental fat Want more contouring control

Schedule a Consultation at Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery

If you’re ready to feel better about your profile, the next step is a personalized consultation with Dr. Lombardo at her Palm Springs practice. Call Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery at 760-610-8990 to schedule an appointment and find out whether KYBELLA or liposuction is right for your needs and goals.