A double chin is a cosmetic concern for many individuals. It occurs when a layer of fat accumulates beneath the chin, resulting in the appearance of a second chin. While having a double chin is not necessarily harmful to one’s health, it can be a source of self-consciousness. Fortunately, there are devices to help reduce the appearance of a double chin without resorting to surgery.

Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York is a world-class dermatology center with more lasers and devices than most treatment facilities in the nation. Innovative tools and renowned board-certified dermatologists work closely with patients to pinpoint the underlying cause of medical and cosmetic skin concerns, including double chins.

Causes of a Double Chin

• Fat buildup
• Weight gain
• Genetics
• Aging
• Sagging skin

In-office procedures to treat a double chin

In-office procedures include surgical and non-surgical treatments to reduce excess submental (beneath the chin) fat. While many procedures do not require incisions, local anesthetic, or significant healing times, more extensive in-office options exist to treat a double chin.

Kybella

Injectables like Kybella® can be an effective non-surgical option for reducing a double chin. Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable medication that contains deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected, Kybella destroys fat cells, resulting in a more defined jawline. While some swelling and bruising may occur after the treatment, recovery time is minimal compared to surgical options.

Body contouring

Another non-surgical option for reducing excess chin fat is body contouring. These procedures involve using energy, like radiofrequency or ultrasound technology, to destroy fat cells beneath the skin. The body then naturally disposes of the destroyed fat cells, resulting in a slimmer and contoured jawline. These procedures typically require more than one session for maximum effectiveness and may cause temporary swelling or redness. Body contouring procedures to treat a double chin include:

• CoolSculpting® leverages controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate fat cells with minimal downtime and few side effects.
• Sofwave is a non-invasive option for neck tightening that can help treat a double chin. The ultrasound technology stimulates collagen production and tightens loose skin in the treatment area. The treatment typically takes less than an hour and requires minimal downtime. Sofwave can be an excellent option for those who want to see a noticeable difference in the appearance of their chin and neck without undergoing surgery.

Genius

Genius is a radiofrequency (RF) microneedling device that boosts collagen production to tighten skin. These treatments can help lift and tighten the skin around the jawline for a smoother appearance.

Ellacor

Ellacor® is a new device that removes micro-cores of tissue to tighten sagging skin in the mid and lower face, minimizing the appearance of a double chin. The hollow needles that Ellacor uses allow the skin to heal without scarring.

Surgical

Liposuction is a minimally-invasive surgical option for removing excess fat under the chin. It involves making small incisions and using a thin tube to suction out chin and neck fat. This procedure is more invasive than the non-surgical options previously discussed and typically involves a longer recovery time and potential side effects such as bruising and swelling. However, liposuction can provide dramatic and immediate results for an effective solution to a double chin.

While non-invasive and minimally-invasive options can effectively reduce the appearance of a double chin, a facelift and neck lift may be necessary for some individuals to achieve desired results.

• A facelift involves removing excess skin and tightening underlying tissues in the face, taking years off your appearance.
• A neck lift targets excess skin and fat in the neck region and can complement a facelift.

At-home remedies to treat a double chin

Submental fat is particularly difficult to target without medical interventions, like injectables, laser treatments, or surgery. However, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce the appearance of a double chin.

Diet

Eating a well-balanced diet low in processed foods and high in protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates can aid in weight loss and reduce excess fat in the chin area. Drinking water can also help improve skin elasticity, making the skin around the chin and neck appear firmer and tighter. Additionally, avoiding or reducing alcohol and nicotine consumption can help prevent further skin damage and maintain a youthful appearance.

Exercise

Incorporating exercise into your routine can help strengthen and tone muscles in the chin and neck, reducing excess chin fat. Simple activities like chin tucks, neck rolls, and head lifts can increase muscle tone in this area, though you can’t spot-treat a double chin with exercise. And while these targeted exercises are helpful, a full body routine with cardio and strength training can lead to weight loss and a slimmer face. Consistency is key, so starting with simple changes can lead to noticeable improvements over time.

Treat a double chin without surgery in NYC

Laser Skin and Surgery Center of New York is ready to partner with you to meet all your cosmetic needs. Our board-certified dermatology professionals create personalized plans to address all your goals with combination treatments and long-term maintenance. Contact us to learn more about our procedures to reduce excess chin fat.