Double Chin Reduction: The Top Ways to Reduce Submental Fat

Do you feel self-conscious about your double chin? You’re not alone. Submental fat can be difficult to get rid of, even with diet and exercise. But don’t worry, there are several treatments available, both surgical and non-surgical, that can help you reduce submental fat and regain your confidence.

Article's contents

• Understanding Submental Fat and Double Chin
• What Causes Submental Fat?
• Non-Surgical Treatments for Double Chin Reduction
• RF Microneedling
• Kybella Treatment
• CoolSculpting Treatment
• PDO Neck Lift
• Surgical Treatments for Double Chin Reduction
• Liposuction
• Neck Lift
• Which Treatment Is Best for You?
• Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Treatment
• Risks and Side Effects to Consider
• Risks and Side Effects of Non-Surgical Treatments
• Risks and Side Effects of Surgical Treatments
• Conclusion

Understanding Submental Fat and Double Chin

Excess submental fat, commonly known as a double chin, can be a source of self-consciousness and dissatisfaction for many people. While it can be caused by genetics or aging, weight gain is also a common contributor to this condition. Understanding the root cause of submental fat can help individuals make informed decisions about the best approach to reduce it. Fortunately, there are non-surgical options available such as Kybella and CoolSculpting, in addition to lifestyle modifications like exercise and a healthy diet.

What Causes Submental Fat?

Submental fat, also known as a double chin, can be caused by a variety of factors. Genetics, weight gain, and aging are among the primary contributors to this condition. Hormonal changes and poor posture can also increase the chances of developing submental fat. Maintaining an active lifestyle that includes regular exercise and eating a healthy diet can help prevent the accumulation of submental fat. However, if lifestyle changes aren’t enough to banish your double chin, non-surgical procedures such as Kybella injections, RF microneedling or CoolSculpting treatments may be worth considering. In some cases, surgical options like liposuction or neck lifts may be necessary to achieve desired results.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Double Chin Reduction

For those who prefer non-surgical options or are not suitable candidates for surgery, there are several treatments available for reducing submental fat and the appearance of a double chin.

RF Microneedling

RF microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten skin. It can be an effective option for reducing the appearance of a double chin by promoting skin tightening in the treatment area. This treatment involves tiny needles that penetrate the skin, delivering heat energy to the deeper layers. The procedure requires no to minimal downtime and permanently destroys part of unwanted fat cells, while tightening loose skin under the chin. 

Kybella Treatment

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment for reducing chin fat. This non-surgical procedure involves injecting a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a substance naturally produced by the body to break down dietary fat, into the chin area. The acid destroys fat cells, leading to a reduction in unwanted fat and creating a more contoured appearance. Downside of this treatment, it causes significant swelling, which resolves two weeks after the treatment. For patients, who are older, this might not be the best option, as Kybella does not help with skin tightening and can leave a patient with loose skin under the chin. It is essential to undergo a consultation with a qualified injector before opting for Kybella treatment to ensure that it is the best option for your individual needs.

CoolSculpting Treatment

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive treatment that uses freezing technology to destroy fat cells. It can be an effective option for reducing submental fat and creating a more defined jawline. The procedure involves placing an applicator on the treatment area, which freezes and destroys fat cells. The body then naturally removes the damaged cells over time. The procedure is more comfortable then RF microneedling, however, just like Kybella, CoolSculpting does not tighten the skin. Overall, it is a safe and effective treatment with no downtime, making it an attractive option for those seeking a non-surgical alternative to submental liposuction.

PDO Neck Lift

PDO (Polydioxanone) thread lift is a new procedure that involves inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten the skin. This procedure stimulate collagen production, creating a firmer and more contoured appearance in the neck and jawline. The procedure requires only a small incision and local anesthetic, with minimal downtime. PDO threads do not provide fat removal, so it can be used in combination with other fat reducing procedures to deliver the best result. PDO thread lift can provide long-lasting results with minimal risks and is an excellent option for those seeking a non-surgical alternative to a traditional facelift.

Surgical Treatments for Double Chin Reduction

For those looking for a more permanent solution to their double chin, surgical treatments may be the best option. There are two main types of surgical treatments for double chin reduction: liposuction and neck lift.

Liposuction

Liposuction is a well-established plastic surgery procedure that involves making a small incision and using a cannula to remove excess fat from the treatment area. Submental liposuction is a specific type of liposuction that targets the chin and neck area. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and involves a small incision in the chin area. The procedure typically takes around an hour, and patients can return to their daily activities within a few days.

Neck Lift

A neck lift, also known as a lower face lift, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the neck and chin area. This procedure is typically done under general anesthesia and involves a larger incision than submental liposuction. The surgery takes around two to three hours, and the recovery time is longer than liposuction, with patients needing around two weeks to return to normal activities.

Which Treatment Is Best for You?

With various non-surgical and surgical treatments available for double chin reduction, it can be challenging to determine which option is best for you. Each approach has its own benefits and risks that should be considered before making a decision.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Treatment

When considering treatments for submental fat, there are several factors to take into account to ensure the best possible outcome. Age, skin elasticity, and overall health should all be taken into consideration before choosing a treatment option. Non-surgical treatments like Kybella and RF micronidling are popular options that can provide results without downtime or anesthesia. However, surgical options like liposuction or neck lift surgery may be more effective for some patients but require a longer recovery time. Ultimately, consulting with a qualified healthcare professional is the best way to determine which treatment option is best suited for your individual needs and goals.

Risks and Side Effects to Consider

Non-surgical treatments have become increasingly popular for treating submental fullness, or double chin. These treatments are less invasive than surgical options and typically have fewer risks and side effects. However, it’s essential to understand the potential risks involved with any cosmetic procedure. Here are some of the risks and side effects to consider for non-surgical and surgical treatments:

Risks and Side Effects of Non-Surgical Treatments

RF Microneedling and Ultherapy are non-surgical treatments that use heat energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten loose skin. While they are generally considered safe, some patients may experience discomfort during the treatment session or mild redness at the targeted area.

Kybella is an injectable treatment that uses deoxycholic acid to break down and destroy fat cells. While it can be an effective option for fat reduction, some patients may experience discomfort or swelling at the injection site. In rare cases, nerve injury or other serious side effects may occur. Qualified and well trained aesthetic physicians would be able to avoid any of these serious complications. 

PDO Thread Lift is a new non-surgical procedure that uses dissolvable threads to lift and tighten loose skin. While it’s considered a safe treatment, some patients may experience redness, swelling, or discomfort at the treatment site. Additionally, the results may not be as dramatic as surgical options, and the treatment may need to be repeated to maintain the best results.

Risks and Side Effects of Surgical Treatments

Liposuction and neck lift are surgical options for reducing submental fullness and contouring the neck and chin area. While they can provide dramatic and long-lasting results, they also carry higher risks and a longer recovery time compared to non-surgical alternatives. The potential risks of surgical treatments include bleeding, infection, scarring, anesthesia risks, and contour irregularities.

Conclusion

Submental fat, or a double chin, can be a real confidence killer for many people. Luckily, there are several options available to address this concern. From non-surgical treatments like Kybella and CoolSculpting to surgical options like liposuction and neck lift, you have several choices to achieve the look you desire. However, it’s important to consider the risks and side effects associated with each treatment before making a decision. Consulting with a qualified professional who can help determine which treatment is best suited for your needs is crucial. To learn more about the different treatments for reducing submental fat and find out which one might be right for you, read our comprehensive guide on the topic.