What Is Double Chin Reduction?
Double chin reduction involves injecting active substances that target the membrane of fat cells into the area under the chin with fine needles, in order to reduce local fat buildup there. The affected fat cells are cleared away over time by the body’s natural mechanisms.
Fat under the chin is not always related to weight; genetics, age and the structure of the jawbone also influence how a double chin looks. In suitable people, submental lipolysis may help the transition between the jaw and neck look more defined.
Because the fat under the chin can build up again with weight gain, balanced nutrition and maintaining your weight are important for keeping the result. If there is noticeable looseness in the skin under the chin, that looseness may become more visible once the fat decreases.
Who May Be Suitable?
- People with noticeable local fat under the chin regardless of their weight
- People who notice that the line between the chin and neck looks less defined in profile
- People with good skin elasticity under the chin
- People who are not considering a surgical procedure
The look of a double chin can also be caused by other factors such as loose skin, muscle laxity, or an enlarged salivary gland or thyroid. In these cases double chin reduction is not suitable; the cause needs to be identified correctly first.
When needed, an evaluation with tests such as ultrasound or a referral to the relevant specialist may be suggested.
How Is the Treatment Done?
- During the consultation, the structure under the chin is examined; fat tissue is distinguished from skin and muscle laxity.
- The treatment area is marked and the skin is cleaned with an antiseptic.
- A numbing cream or local anesthesia may be applied for comfort.
- The active substance is injected into the fat tissue at the marked points with fine needles.
- If considered necessary, sessions are repeated a few weeks apart.
Before each session the area under the chin is reassessed; when the result is considered sufficient, no additional session is planned. You can return to daily life the same day, but because of the swelling it is advisable to keep your social plans flexible for the first few days.
What Should You Pay Attention to Afterward?
- Noticeable swelling under the chin is expected, especially in the first days; leave a few days of margin before an important event.
- You may use a cold compress if your physician recommends it.
- Avoid massaging the area, intense exercise, saunas and steam baths for a few days.
- Contact your physician if you notice difficulty swallowing, marked asymmetry when smiling or increasing pain.
Possible Side Effects and Who Should Not Have It
Swelling, bruising, pain, a burning sensation, numbness and firmness are common effects and usually ease within days to a few weeks. Rarely, temporary asymmetry when smiling due to effects on a nerve branch along the jawline, difficulty swallowing or skin irregularities may occur.
The treatment is not performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, when there is an active infection in the area, with bleeding disorders, with an allergy to the product used, or when the fullness under the chin is caused by something else such as the thyroid or a salivary gland. If you have previously had surgery or treatment in the neck area, it is important to mention this at the consultation.
Dr. Fulya Koç’s Approach
When evaluating double chin reduction, Dr. Fulya Koç examines the lower face as a whole. Fullness under the chin is not always caused by fat; sometimes the structure of the chin tip or looseness of the skin is the main factor, and in that case a different method may be more suitable.
For her, it is a priority to clarify the cause before recommending any treatment and to discuss expectations realistically. Results vary from person to person.
When it is considered appropriate, double chin reduction is planned together with other treatments for the neck and jawline, taking the overall balance of the face into account.
Fulya Koç
Frequently asked questions
The number of sessions varies with the amount of fat tissue and how the tissue responds; a few sessions are usually needed. After each session an interval of a few weeks is left so the swelling can settle and the result can be assessed.
Swelling after submental lipolysis can be more noticeable than in other areas and usually eases within a few days. Mild firmness or numbness may last somewhat longer.
Yes. If the look under the chin is caused by loose skin, HIFU or thread treatments may be more suitable; if the chin tip sits further back, chin filler may be more suitable. For some people, methods are planned together.
The information on this page is general. Whether the treatment suits you, its possible risks and the results you can expect are assessed individually at your consultation. Results vary from person to person. Image is illustrative.
