Belkyra™
Belkyra is the only Health Canada-approved injectable that permanently dissolves stubborn submental fat, with every protocol at Whistler Medical Aesthetics designed by Dr. Sarah Kennea around your anatomy and jawline goals.
What Is Belkyra And How Does It Work?
Belkyra contains synthetic deoxycholic acid, a molecule your body already produces to break down and absorb dietary fat. When injected with precision into the submental fat layer, it disrupts and destroys fat cell membranes through a process called cytolysis. The body then metabolizes and clears the treated cells over the following weeks.
The critical distinction: once those fat cells are destroyed, they cannot regenerate or store fat again. This permanence sets Belkyra apart from treatments that temporarily reduce volume or require ongoing maintenance. The jawline definition achieved after a Belkyra series is lasting, provided weight remains stable.
Each treatment session takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. A topical anesthetic is applied prior to the injections, and a cold compress is used immediately after to manage swelling. Most patients require two to four sessions spaced six to eight weeks apart, though the exact number depends on the volume of submental fat and your desired outcome.
Is Belkyra Worth It For You?
Belkyra tends to be the ideal fit for those with:
- A defined submental fat pocket, disproportionate to their facial structure
- Fullness that hasn't responded to diet or exercise
- Realistic expectations for a staged, multi-session process
Age isn't a barrier: Belkyra works equally well for early fullness in your 30s or longstanding fullness in your 60s. It's not designed for excess skin, significant neck laxity, or fat beyond the submental area.
Every patient begins with a comprehensive assessment of submental anatomy. Dr. Kennea evaluates fat volume, skin quality, and underlying structures before recommending a plan.
Your Treatment Experience
Belkyra treatments at Whistler Medical Aesthetics begin with a topical anesthetic applied to the submental area. Your injector will mark an injection grid customized to your anatomy before placing the Belkyra precisely within the fat layer. The entire session usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Swelling is expected and is part of the normal treatment response; it's a sign the deoxycholic acid is working. Most patients experience moderate swelling for five to seven days following each session, with some mild firmness in the area for several weeks afterward. Social downtime is typically limited to the first few days.
Results develop gradually over the eight to twelve weeks following each treatment session, as the body clears the treated fat cells. Final results are typically visible two to four months after completing the full series.
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Comprehensive submental anatomy assessment before every protocol2
Conservative, staged approach designed for natural proportional outcomes3
Physician oversight from consultation through follow-up assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients require two to four sessions spaced six to eight weeks apart, depending on the volume of submental fat and your goals.
Yes. Once a fat cell is destroyed by the deoxycholic acid, it cannot regenerate or store fat again, provided your weight remains stable afterward.
No. Belkyra targets fat volume, not skin laxity. Patients with significant skin laxity in the neck may be better candidates for a different treatment, or a combination approach, which Dr. Kennea can discuss at consultation.
Most patients experience moderate swelling for five to seven days after each session, with some mild firmness for a few weeks afterward. This is a normal, expected part of how the treatment works.
Yes, depending on your anatomy and goals. Dr. Kennea will assess whether combining Belkyra with another treatment better supports your desired jawline outcome.
