Double chin, also known as submental fat or submental fullness, causes self-consciousness for many patients and can be impossible to reduce regardless of your diet or exercise habits. Often, the appearance of a double chin is genetic. Thankfully, there are both surgical and nonsurgical procedures that are effective in removing this excess fat and creating a more flattering appearance.

 

Why Should I Choose a Submental Procedure?

For many patients, the appearance of a double chin persists no matter whether they gain or lose weight. Instead, fat below the chin may be the result of genetics, hormones, or even posture. Often, this fat can only be reduced through professional cosmetic procedures.

Patients who choose a procedure to reduce their submental fat feel a renewed confidence in their appearance. Reducing fat below the chin enhances the jawline and creates a more flattering profile. Procedures to reduce fat below the chin are simple and require minimal recovery; in many cases, no downtime is required at all.

 

What Procedures Can I Choose for a Double Chin?

There are three main procedures that are chosen to reduce the appearance of a double chin: Kybella, CoolSculpting, and chin liposuction. Choosing between these three depends on each patient’s unique concerns, budget, treatment goals, and preferences.

 

Kybella

Kybella is an injectable treatment that is specifically designed to destroy fat below the chin. Kybella works using deoxycholic acid, which breaks down fat cells. Injections are made below around any areas of fullness. Most patients may require 1-6 sessions of Kybella. Kybella requires no downtime, but patients may feel some tenderness or redness at injection sites after the procedure.

 

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting freezes fat cells so that they are destroyed and eventually naturally flushed away by the body. CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that can be used in many areas of the body, including the chin. Like Kybella, CoolSculpting requires little to no downtime.

 

Chin Liposuction

Liposuction has been in use for fat reduction for years, and the procedure can also be used to reduce fat from below the chin. Liposuction is more invasive than CoolSculpting or Kybella, so it is usually chosen for patients who have a more significant amount of fat below their chin or who are pairing the procedure with another surgery. Liposuction is performed under local or general anesthesia by making a small incision in the treatment area through which a cannula is inserted. The cannula is then used to break apart fat cells before removing them with suction. Liposuction is a highly effective procedure. Patients will require some downtime after liposuction. Generally, swelling can be expected after liposuction but subsides within about two weeks.

 

What to Expect at Your Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Sweat will examine your chin and neck and make a recommendation regarding your best treatment option. You can also expect to provide information regarding your health history and any medications or supplements you take as well as any allergies. A consultation is also your chance to ask any questions you may have about the procedure or recovery process. Finally, Dr. Sweat may take photos of the treatment area to prepare for your procedure and will explain a plan to remove your double chin and the results you can expect.

Your Submental Procedure Treatment Plan

After your consultation, Dr. Sweat will develop a custom procedure plan to fit your unique profile and needs. This may mean a combination of Kybella, CoolSculpting, or liposuction rather than choosing just one procedure of the three. Choosing the correct treatment plan for you will vary from patient-to-patient, and carefully reviewing your candidacy for each option is key. Irina Dariychuk, NP will walk you through all of the necessary steps and candidacy questions to determine the best treatment plan to reduce your double chin.

 

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about your double chin removal options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sweat. Call our Sacramento office at (916) 400-0822 or request your appointment through our online form.