DEOXYCHOLIC ACID · SUBMENTAL
Kybella Aftercare
Swelling is expected after KYBELLA. Bruising, pain, numbness, redness and firmness are also common injection-site reactions. This guide is specifically written for the FDA-approved use under the chin in adults.
Quick recovery priorities
- Follow the instructions for the exact product, device and treatment area you received.
- Keep treated sites clean and avoid unnecessary rubbing, picking or pressure.
- Do not use this page to self-diagnose a complication. If something feels significantly wrong or is worsening, contact THCB or seek appropriate medical care.
What is usually normal
- Injection-site swelling can be prominent, particularly early after treatment.
- Bruising, tenderness/pain, numbness, redness and firmness (induration) are among the common reactions reported in the prescribing information.
- Temporary changes in sensation can occur in the treatment area.
Comfort and care
- A cloth-wrapped cold pack may be used for short periods for comfort. Do not apply ice directly to skin.
- Avoid repeatedly pressing, squeezing or manipulating the treatment area.
- Follow your provider’s specific guidance about activity, pain control and timing of any future session.
Call THCB promptly
- An uneven or asymmetric smile, new lower-face weakness or facial muscle weakness. KYBELLA labeling identifies marginal mandibular nerve injury as an important risk.
- Difficulty swallowing or worsening swallowing symptoms.
- Increasing redness or pain, an open sore, drainage, skin breakdown, ulceration, or other signs of infection.
- Unexpected hair loss at or near the injection site.
Get urgent medical help now if you notice
- Breathing difficulty or severe/progressive swallowing difficulty.
- Rapidly progressive swelling with airway symptoms.
- A severe allergic reaction.
If you have trouble breathing, signs of stroke, sudden vision loss/change, or another potentially life-threatening symptom, call 911 or seek emergency care rather than waiting for an app response.
Questions after treatment?
For non-emergency concerns, contact The House Call Beauty at 415-780-1854. If THCB gave you treatment-specific written instructions that differ from this general guide, follow those individualized instructions.
This page is general patient education. It does not replace individualized medical advice, examination, diagnosis, treatment or emergency care.
Safety sources
Last reviewed: August 15, 2026.