HOUSTON – So you've tried diet and exercise and you've lost weight, but you just can't seem to get rid of that double chin!
A new breakthrough treatment promises to blast that stubborn fat away in no time.
Houston mom Alysha Monjaras is proud to have lost the baby weight after her daughter was born in 2009, there's on spot where the fat just doesn't seem to want to go away.
Monjaras told KPRC Channel 2, "When I take photos, I tend to do little angles here and there so you don't see the double chin."
Dermatologist Dr. Suzanne Bruce said, "Sometimes people will exercise and get the weight off, but still have that last little pooch of fat that's resistant to diet and exercise."
Dr. Bruce participated in the clinical trials for Kybella, the first and only FDA approved injectable drug that reduces the appearance of double chin fat.
Before her treatment, Monjaras said, "I'm just a little nervous, but that's about it."
Before Kybella, liposuction was really the only option.
This non-surgical treatment can be done in office, usually 20 to 30 tiny injections of an acid that occurs naturally in the body.
Dr. Bruce explained, "We're just using it in small doses, injecting it directly in the fat and the acid, the bile acid destroys the fat cells permanently. So once those fat cells are gone, they're gone for good."
The treatment costs between $1500-4000 depending on how much fat needs to be treated.
It is likely not covered by insurance because it is considered cosmetic.
Dr. Bruce said the average patient needs about two to four sessions spaced a month apart to see results.
Kybella is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women, anyone on blood thinners or who has trouble swallowing.