Submental liposuction, commonly called double chin liposuction, is a cosmetic surgery on the rise. These procedures leave behind a more chiseled jawline by eliminating fat deposits under the chin. So how does double chin liposuction work? Is it an intensive cosmetic procedure? Not anymore. Modern Awake VASER liposuction techniques mean that a submental liposuction only requires a few 3-4 millimeter cuts below the chin. A thin tube, called a cannula, is inserted and then the extra fat is detached and suctioned out. These next-gen procedures call for minimal recovery time and are done under local anesthesia. Patients who want to get rid of their double chin can achieve a long-lasting youthful, slimmer appearance with chin lipo.
Submental fat. The double chin. Whatever you want to call that miserable cousin of the grim reaper that shows up to announce your entry into middle age, we all want him to leave. Exercise and topical creams are usually the first wave of defense thrown at this unwanted guest. But ask the entire population over the age of 35: they do not always work well. Chin liposuction is a much more decisive solution for people seeking definitive change. The following paragraphs are intended to help you navigate the pros and cons of chin lipo (double chin removal surgery or double chin suction).
Before The Procedure: Prior to undergoing double chin suction, patients should do some homework on different techniques (LASER liposuction or VASER liposuction? Awake or asleep?) and pick out which offices they may want to work with. Then, they should consult with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. The surgeon will analyze the patient's face, discuss projected results, and devise a surgical plan. Then, they will ensure the patient is a good candidate for the procedure, confirm their health status and set a date.
The Procedure: Double chin removal is essentially exactly what it sounds like, but a little gentler. It is a minimally-invasive surgical technique that refines the jawline contour by eliminating extra fat deposits under the chin. First, the patient is given local anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. Then, the surgeon makes the previously-mentioned tiny incisions to insert a cannula. The surgeon uses LASER liposuction or Awake VASER liposuction (using ultrasonic waves) to melt the fat. Then it is suctioned out. It is often combined with skin tightening with Renuvion (J-Plasma treatment) to fully knock out skin laxity, and it is sometimes accompanied by jawline contour enhancing injections.
After The Procedure: The recovery period for modern chin liposuction is almost comically short. Patients may experience mild bruising, swelling, and discomfort in the days immediately following their procedure. These side effects usually disappear in a few days to a couple of weeks. Patients that follow their surgeon’s post-operative care instructions maximize their healing and their results. Be one of those patients. Wearing compression garments as instructed, avoiding highly physical activities for a period of time and following a recommended diet are a few examples of instructions that can have a profound impact on how pleasant the post-surgical period is.
Double Chin Liposuction Pros: There are a lot of reasons to like modern chin liposuction procedures as a solution for submental fat. First off, it yields results that are both noticeable and long-lasting. The desired results are almost always achieved in a single session, unlike non-invasive treatments that may require a never-ending series of visits or applications. Compared to conventional surgery, double chin lipo is also a very gentle, safe and non-invasive solution. Miniscule recovery periods and less anxiety leading up to your big day are all real reasons to get the procedure.
Double Chin Liposuction Cons: Okay. Good pitch, double chin lipo. But what are the cons? Well, double chin liposuction does come with some of the hazards associated with surgical procedures, even though it is generally viewed as very safe. Swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection and nerve injury are all potential complications. But the risks are mitigated substantially when the procedures are carried out in a respectable facility by a talented, board-certified cosmetic surgeon. This is also the most important reason for the consultation phase. Patients must talk to their surgeon in detail about their medical histories, so that they can prepare a proper plan for their procedure. Also, it never hurts to ask the questions that are making you anxious.
Alternatives to Double Chin Liposuction: A lot of people are choosing chin lipo right now, but it isn’t right for everyone. People who prioritize non-surgical options or those with minimal submental fat may select alternative therapies. Some of the other treatments are injectable fat-cell-dissolving agents (like Kybella) and radiofrequency treatments that target fat and tighten skin without surgery. But, if a patient is looking for the best choice to achieve their desired result, it is imperative to speak with a licensed medical expert. Start there. Then ditch that double chin.
ROYAL COLLEGE OF
SURGEONS
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH
CAROLINA
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN
CALIFORNIA
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF
COSMETIC SURGERY
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF
LIPOSUCTION SURGERY