How to Get Rid of a Double Chin
How to Get Rid of a Double Chin
How to Get Rid of a Double Chin
AESTHETIC NEWS
Even the most physically fit people can be plagued by a double chin. Sagging jowls can seemingly appear overnight, particularly once you reach your early to mid -40s. A neckline that was once taut and youthful can look downright wobbly. Neck and chin fat is hard to camouflage, and while targeted exercises may offer some improvement, most people who are afflicted with a so-called “turkey neck” turn to plastic surgery as a last resort.
If you’re looking to banish your double chin forever, there are several options available.
Laser liposuction, also known as Smart Lipo, effectively removes excess neck fat through small tubes called cannula. The procedure is minimally-invasive, and is usually performed under local anesthesia. Smart Lipo offers several benefits when it comes to contouring the jaw line: short recovery period, less bleeding compared to traditional lipo, and skin tightening effects afforded by the laser heat. Patients can expect a short recovery time—usually less than 2 days, and because the incisions are small, scarring is never an issue.
Arguably the most invasive method for eliminating the appearance of a double chin and sagging jowls, a neck lift alleviates two problems in one fell swoop. The procedure repairs and tightens weakened muscles in the neck, and also removes excess adipose tissue and skin. A neck lift may be recommended for patients who are bothered by chin fullness, as well as bands around the base of the neck and a “turkey waddle.” After the surgery, patients will experience swelling, bruising and tenderness, and should allow at least 7-10 days for recovery. In certain patients, a neck lift may be combined with liposuction, or cryolipolisis (using Cool Mini), which freezes and kills fat cells.
Another recent treatment available to tighten up the neck line and chin is Ultherapy. The device uses ultrasound technology to gently tighten and lift loose skin over several sessions, without any downtime. Ultherapy won’t eliminate a double chin in the same way a neck lift can, but this non-invasive procedure gives patients with a tighter, more youthful looking jaw line.
New to the market, Kybella is the first FDA-approved cosmetic injectable to address the appearance of a double chin. It works by breaking down and absorbing fat in the submental area. Made of a synthetic Deoxycholic acid – which is a naturally occurring enzyme – the treatment is quick, painless and entails ZERO downtime. Most patients report noticeable results after 2 to 4 sessions, performed 4 to 6 weeks apart. While Kybella works wonders for zapping away fat in a double chin, the injections will not tighten skin along the jaw line.
Your skin elasticity, aesthetic goals and general health will help determine which chin contouring treatment is safest and most appropriate. When researching your potential surgeon, be sure to ask about their specific experience with liposuction, neck lifts, fat removal and chin contouring, and ask to see before and after photos of previous patients.
Located in Manhattan, Dr. Thomas Loeb is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and leverages his aesthetic talents and medical expertise to provide the best outcomes for his patients. If you are interested in chin or neck contouring with Dr. Loeb, we invite you to schedule a one-on-one consultation by calling 212-327-3700.
