Get Rid Of Your Double Chin (Effective Non-Surgical & Surgical Options)
A double chin, medically referred to as submental fullness or submental adiposity, is a common aesthetic concern that many individuals face. It is characterized by the accumulation of excess fat beneath the chin and can have a significant impact on one’s self-esteem and confidence. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the causes of a double chin, explore exercises that may help, and discuss various treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical.
Understanding a Double Chin
Symptoms and appearance
A double chin is characterized by the presence of a layer of subcutaneous fat beneath the chin and jawline. Common symptoms and the appearance of a double chin include:
- A noticeable pouch of fat beneath the chin.
- A lack of definition along the jawline.
- An undefined transition between the neck and chin.
- An appearance of fullness or sagging in the lower face.
Levels of severity
Double chins can vary in severity, ranging from mild to pronounced. The severity often depends on factors such as genetics, age, and lifestyle. Mild cases may only exhibit a subtle fullness, while more severe cases can result in a prominent and noticeable double chin.
Causes of a double chin
Understanding the underlying causes of a double chin is essential for effective treatment. Several factors contribute to the development of submental fullness:
- Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in determining the distribution of fat in your body, including under your chin.
- Aging: As we age, our skin loses elasticity, and fat deposits can become more apparent, leading to the appearance of a double chin.
- Weight gain: Excess weight gain can result in the accumulation of fat under the chin, exacerbating the condition.
- Posture: Poor posture can weaken the muscles in the neck and contribute to the sagging appearance of a double chin.
- Diet: A diet high in calories, unhealthy fats, and processed foods can lead to weight gain and the development of submental adiposity.
Can You Exercise Your Double Chin Away?
While exercise is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle and can help tone various muscle groups, it may not be the most effective solution for eliminating a double chin. Specific exercises, such as chin tucks and neck stretches, can help strengthen the neck muscles and improve posture, potentially reducing the appearance of a double chin. However, they may not provide significant fat reduction.
Losing weight through diet and exercise
It is important to note that losing weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce overall body fat, including fat stored under the chin. For some individuals with mild submental fullness, this may be sufficient to achieve the desired improvement.
Exercises to get rid of a double chin
Here are a few exercises that may help strengthen neck muscles and improve the appearance of a double chin:
- Chin tucks: Sit or stand up straight, tilt your head back, and pucker your lips as if you are trying to kiss the ceiling. Hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat several times.
- Neck stretches: Gently tilt your head from side to side and forward to stretch the neck muscles. Hold each position for 10-15 seconds.
However, for many individuals, isolated fat will persist beneath the chin, even with diligent diet and exercise. In such cases, non-surgical and surgical treatment options become valuable considerations.
Non-Surgical Double Chin Treatment Options
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting, also known as cryolipolysis, is a non-surgical fat reduction procedure that can target and eliminate stubborn fat pockets, including submental fat. Here’s how it works:
- The treatment involves the application of a specialized cooling device to the area under the chin.
- The controlled cooling freezes and crystallizes the fat cells, causing them to undergo apoptosis (cell death).
- Over time, the body naturally eliminates these dead fat cells, resulting in a gradual reduction of submental fat.
Ideal candidates
CoolSculpting is an ideal option for individuals who have a mild to moderate double chin and are looking for a non-invasive solution.
Results
Results from CoolSculpting are not immediate and typically become noticeable several weeks after the procedure. While the results are gradual, they can be quite dramatic, leading to a noticeable reduction in submental fullness.
Recovery and cost
One of the key advantages of CoolSculpting is that it involves minimal to no downtime. Patients can typically resume their regular activities immediately after treatment. The cost of CoolSculpting for a double chin varies but is generally more affordable than surgical options.
Kybella (deoxycholic acid injection)
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment specifically designed to target and reduce submental fat. Here’s how it works:
- Kybella contains deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
- When injected into the fat beneath the chin, Kybella disrupts the fat cell membranes, causing them to break down and be naturally processed and eliminated by the body.
Ideal candidates
Kybella is suitable for individuals with moderate to severe submental fullness who prefer a non-surgical approach.
Results
The results from Kybella injections are typically gradual, becoming more apparent over several weeks. Like CoolSculpting, Kybella can provide significant fat reduction, leading to a more defined jawline.
Recovery and cost
After Kybella injections, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort, which usually subsides within a few days to a week. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results. The cost of Kybella can vary depending on the number of sessions needed.
Surgical Treatment Options
Submental liposuction
Submental liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess fat from under the chin and neck through small incisions. Here’s how it works:
- During the procedure, tiny incisions are made and a small tube, known as a cannula, along with a suction device to extract excess fat.
- Submental liposuction allows for precise fat removal, enabling the provider to sculpt the area to achieve a more defined and youthful contour.
- This approach typically results in the permanent elimination of fat cells, enabling the neck to be artfully contoured to achieve an appealing profile
Ideal candidates
Submental liposuction is suitable for individuals with moderate to severe submental fullness who prefer a surgical solution.
Results
The results of submental liposuction are often more immediate and dramatic compared to non-surgical options. However, some initial swelling and bruising are expected, and it may take several weeks for the final results to become apparent.
Recovery and cost
Recovery from submental liposuction typically involves a few days of downtime, and patients may need to wear a compression garment for a period to support the healing process. The cost of submental liposuction can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise and location.
Neck lift
A neck lift, also known as lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that addresses sagging skin and excess fat in the neck and jawline. Here is how it works:
· Incisions are strategically placed behind the ears and/or behind the chin. The neck muscles (platysma) are separated from the skin, and are tightened with sutures. Next, the skin is redraped and any excess is trimmed away.
Ideal candidates
A neck lift is an ideal option for individuals with pronounced submental fullness and significant sagging skin in the neck area. A great option for patients with excess skin and/or low skin elasticity.
Results
A neck lift can produce dramatic and long-lasting results, effectively rejuvenating the appearance of the neck and jawline.
Recovery and cost
Neck lift recovery can take several weeks, and patients should expect some swelling and bruising. The cost of a neck lift can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the surgeon’s fees.
A double chin can be a bothersome aesthetic concern, but there are effective treatment options available for individuals seeking to improve their appearance. Whether you prefer a non-surgical approach like CoolSculpting or Kybella, or opt for a surgical solution like submental liposuction or a neck lift, it is essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your specific needs. Remember that individual results may vary, and the choice of treatment should be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional who can assess each patients’ unique needs and goals.
Daniela Atencio, MD is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with fellowship training in cosmetic surgery. She learned from nationally renowned plastic surgeons and obtained extensive training in the entire spectrum of reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. Dr. Atencio’s surgical interest is focused on face and breast aesthetics, as well as body-contouring surgery. She has extensive training and experience in both surgical and non-surgical modalities.
Thanks for this post, I’m hoping to get rid of my double chin without surgery so this was helpful