Patients researching non-surgical treatments sometimes come across Kybella, Excel V, and RF microneedling in the same breath, but these treatments address entirely different concerns. Understanding the distinction can help you have a more focused first conversation at your consultation.
Kybella: Submental Fullness
Kybella (deoxycholic acid) is an FDA-approved injectable treatment designed to reduce fullness beneath the chin, commonly called a double chin. It works by destroying fat cells in the treated area over a series of sessions, producing gradual, long-lasting improvement in jawline definition.
Excel V: Redness, Vessels, and Pigment
Excel V is a laser treatment, not an injectable, aimed at visible blood vessels, facial redness, rosacea-related flushing, spider veins, and certain brown spots. It works by targeting blood or pigment beneath the skin’s surface rather than addressing fat or fine lines.
RF Microneedling: Texture, Laxity, and Scarring
RF microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen deeper in the skin. It’s typically considered for texture irregularities, mild skin laxity, acne scars, and stretch marks.
Important safety note: In October 2025, the FDA issued a safety communication on RF microneedling devices, noting reports of serious complications — including burns, scarring, fat loss, disfigurement, and nerve damage — associated with their use for dermatologic and aesthetic procedures. The FDA emphasizes that RF microneedling is a medical procedure that should only be performed by a licensed, trained healthcare professional, and recommends patients discuss the benefits and risks with their provider beforehand. At Journelle Skin, RF microneedling is performed by our physicians and clinical team, and we’re happy to walk you through these considerations at your consultation.
How to Think About the Choice
Rather than choosing between them, many patients find that these treatments address different concerns entirely and aren’t interchangeable substitutes for one another. A consultation helps map your specific concern — fullness, redness, or texture — to the treatment actually designed to address it, along with a full discussion of risks and alternatives.
Learn more about Kybella, Excel V, or RF Microneedling, or schedule a consultation to determine the right plan for your goals.