Background: ATX-101 (deoxycholic acid injection; Kybella) provides an approved nonsurgical treatment option for reduction of submental fullness caused by submental fat. Current one-size-fits-all recommendations for the use of ATX-101 limit treatment to a central area, which may not provide complete resolution of submental fat for some patients. An expanded safe zone is described, allowing for individualized, comprehensive treatment of submental fat with ATX-101 according to each patient's anatomy and desired outcomes.
Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of patients treated with ATX-101 for excess submental fat between June of 2015 and December of 2016 at a single plastic surgery practice. The expanded safe zone was developed to isolate the distinct fat compartments of the submental area and includes a no-treatment zone to avoid the marginal mandibular nerve. The extent of ATX-101 treatment required in each zone was determined by assessment of subcutaneous adipose tissue. A 1-cm grid was used to mark the treatment area before injection of ATX-101 (2 mg/cm). Improvement (defined as decreased palpable and/or visible submental fullness) was determined at least 4 months after the final treatment. Adverse events were recorded at each visit and reported by patients by means of telephone.
Results: Overall, 167 patients were included in this analysis. Improvement in submental fullness was achieved in 160 of 167 patients (95.8 percent). The majority of adverse events consisted of temporary injection-site edema, numbness, and tenderness.
Conclusion: An understanding of submental anatomy and careful assessment of each patient's submental fat allows for individualized treatment with ATX-101 beyond the central region of the neck without increased risk of adverse events.
Clinical question/level of evidence: Therapeutic, IV.