Figuring out how to charge for the newly FDA-approved deoxycholic acid (Kybella, Allergan) might be a challenging proposition for physicians who elect to offer this new non-surgical treatment. Kybella, a cytolytic drug, which when injected into tissue physically destroys the cell membrane, can be pricey, according to Miami, Fla., dermatologist, researcher and author Leslie Baumann, M.D. “[Kybella] patients often say, ‘I can get liposuction for that price,’” Dr. Baumann says. “It is important that they realize that this is better than liposuction — less risk, less down time, no compression garments, no scars, no leaking, faster recovery.” Among the challenges of pricing Kybella is the lack of experience from other countries. “The U.S. is the first country to have Kybella,” Dr. Baumann says. “In this case, only the investigators, like myself, have experience, and that was in the format of the trial. We injected every four weeks. So, we (the investigators) need to share our expertise.” Kybella is new, so things could change. But for now, fees among U.S. physicians who offer the therapy vary greatly. According to RealSelf.com, costs in the U.S. for Kybella treatment generally falls between $1,000 to $2,000 but sometimes higher, depending on location. Read more at Cosmetic Surgery Times.