New Chin Treatment Approved By FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has just approved an injectable drug to remove unwanted double chin fat, known as Kybella, without the need for any extensive surgeries or downtime.

Deoxycholic acid is a natural ingredient that's also produced by the body and that's involved, according to the FDA, to help the tissues absorb fat once injected.

Kythera Biopharmaceuticals, the makers of Kybella, said patients could receive up to 50 injections in a single treatment and up to six single treatments, although these should be no less than one month apart.

"Treatment with Kybella should only be provided by a licensed health care professional, and patients should fully understand the risks associated with use of the drug before considering treatment," Dr. Amy Egan, deputy director of the Office of Drug Evaluation III at the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in an agency news release.

Company officials believe that the product may attract others who also use facial injection treatments like Botox and fillers and are also expecting to take in close to $500 million in annual sales once it becomes readily available.

However, the product does come without side-effects, including the possibility of nerve injury to the jaw "that can cause an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness, and trouble swallowing".

However, the most common side effects, according to the FDA, included swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness and areas of hardness in the area where the treatment has been applied.