What is a double chin?

The area beneath the chin, located within the neck region, is significantly impacted by aging and fat accumulation, which is the primary cause of the appearance of a "double chin" from various perspectives. Fat tissue in this area is divided into two distinct compartments, separated by the platysma muscle. The fat compartment situated above the platysma muscle is the target area for lipolysis injections.

What is Belkyra?

Belkyra is a medication utilized for fat dissolution in Canada, which received FDA approval for double chin correction in 2015. It contains deoxycholic acid, a substance developed externally, which is a crucial component of bile that aids in the digestion of fats in the intestine. Belkyra is available in a 2 ml vial containing 20 mg of deoxycholic acid.

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Mechanism of action

Upon the injection of Belkyra, the walls of fat cells are destroyed, leading to a cascade of inflammatory cell death and a reduction in the size of fat tissue. This inflammatory cascade also promotes the migration and stimulation of fibroblasts (a type of skin cell), resulting in an increase in collagen production.

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Steps during the Belkyra injection:

1. After obtaining consent and taking accurate photographs, the injection area is marked.

2. The injection site is treated with an alcohol solution to eliminate harmful bacteria on the skin. An anesthetic cream is then applied to ensure a painless experience.

3. Deoxycholic acid is subsequently injected into the fat region using a 1-mL tuberculin syringe and a thin needle (typically 30 G and 13 mm) at multiple injection points, spaced 1 cm apart in a grid-like pattern.

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Post-treatment Care:

As a sign of inflammation, patients may experience mild swelling, discomfort, and pain for a duration of 2 days to 2 weeks following the injection. Cold compresses can be effectively employed to relieve discomfort. Typically, patients can be followed up after 4 weeks to evaluate the results and to plan additional sessions based on their needs .Generally, three to five sessions are necessary, with a four-week interval between each session.

Complications :

1. Discomfort, pain, and swelling.

2. Bruising.

3. An asymmetrical smile may result from injecting excessive deoxycholic acid near the nerve. 4. Skin ulceration.

5. In rare cases, difficulty swallowing (dysphasia) may occur.