What to Expect When You’re Expecting… a Chin Liposuction Procedure

May 27, 2025 /
Discover what to expect from a chin liposuction procedure, including steps, recovery, benefits, and expert tips for lasting results.
chin liposuction procedure

Chin Liposuction Procedure: Top 10 Powerful Benefits 2025

Chin Liposuction Benefits 2025 | Ideal Face & Body

Why Double Chins Are More Common Than You Think

The chin liposuction procedure is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery that removes excess fat under the chin to create a more defined jawline and eliminate the appearance of a double chin. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, as many as 68% of people are bothered by the appearance of a double chin, making this one of the most sought-after facial contouring treatments.

Quick Overview of the Chin Liposuction Procedure:
What it does: Permanently removes fat cells under the chin using a small cannula
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with optional sedation
Duration: Typically 45 minutes to 1 hour
Recovery: Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks
Results: Permanent fat removal with improved jawline definition
Incisions: Tiny (3-4mm) incisions that heal nearly invisibly

A double chin can develop due to several factors beyond just weight gain. Genetics, aging, and loss of skin elasticity all play significant roles in submental fullness. Unlike other areas of fat that may respond to diet and exercise, chin fat is often resistant to these efforts, making surgical intervention the most effective solution.

The procedure works by making small incisions under the chin, then using a thin tube called a cannula to suction out unwanted fat deposits. Modern techniques often incorporate laser or ultrasound technology to help tighten the skin and achieve smoother results.

As Dr. Sarah Yovino, MD, a double board-certified specialist in non-surgical and surgical medical aesthetics, I’ve helped countless patients achieve their ideal facial profile through the chin liposuction procedure and other advanced contouring techniques. My extensive training in pain management and cosmetic procedures ensures you receive the most comfortable and effective treatment possible.

Infographic showing the main causes of double chin including genetics, aging, weight gain, poor posture, and loss of skin elasticity, along with how chin liposuction addresses submental fat deposits - chin liposuction procedure infographic

Simple chin liposuction procedure word guide:
chin liposuction local anesthesia
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Understanding the Chin Liposuction Procedure

Think of a chin liposuction procedure as a targeted solution for one of the most frustrating beauty concerns—that stubborn fat under your chin that just won’t budge, no matter how much you diet or exercise. This specialized technique, also called submental liposuction, focuses specifically on removing the fat deposits that create a double chin and blur your natural jawline.

The magic happens through a thin tube called a cannula that gently suctions away unwanted fat cells. We make tiny incisions—usually hidden in the natural creases under your chin—so any minimal scarring becomes virtually invisible once healed. Before the fat removal begins, we inject tumescent fluid, a special solution containing local anesthesia and medications that control bleeding. This makes the entire process much safer and more comfortable for you.

What sets our approach apart is our Precision Sculpt technique, which allows us to perform the procedure while you’re awake and comfortable. This gives us incredible precision in sculpting your new profile. We can also improve results with laser-assisted or ultrasound-assisted technology that promotes additional skin tightening through natural collagen stimulation.

Here’s something important to understand: not every double chin is the same. Some are caused primarily by excess fat (perfect for liposuction), while others involve loose skin or genetics that might need different approaches. Your skin elasticity plays a huge role in determining whether you’re a great candidate for this procedure.

How the chin liposuction procedure works

The science behind fat removal is beautifully straightforward. Once we inject the tumescent fluid, it causes the fat cells to swell and separate from surrounding tissues, making them much easier to remove through gentle fat aspiration. Our Precision Sculpt technique involves making controlled, artistic passes with the cannula to ensure smooth, even contouring.

Here’s the best part: the fat cells we remove are gone for good. This is permanent fat-cell removal—unlike weight loss where fat cells just shrink but stick around, liposuction physically removes them from your body. Even if you gain weight later, you’re much less likely to redevelop that double chin in the treated area.

The procedure also kickstarts your body’s natural healing response, stimulating collagen tightening in the surrounding tissues. As you heal over the following months, new collagen forms and can lead to some natural skin tightening—like getting a bonus mini-lift along with your fat removal.

Who is a good candidate for a chin liposuction procedure

The ideal candidate for a chin liposuction procedure is someone who feels self-conscious about their double chin but has reasonably good skin elasticity. We’re looking for patients who are close to their ideal weight—this isn’t a weight loss solution, but rather a contouring treatment for stubborn, localized fat that genetics dealt you.

During your consultation, we’ll perform a skin snap-test to check how well your skin bounces back. Good skin elasticity means your skin will retract nicely after fat removal, giving you that smooth, natural-looking result you’re hoping for. Most patients in their 20s through 40s have excellent elasticity, though many patients in their 50s and beyond can still be wonderful candidates.

BMI considerations matter too—we want you to be at a stable, healthy weight before the procedure. You’ll also need to be a nonsmoker or willing to quit for several weeks before and after surgery, since smoking seriously impairs healing and increases risks.

Most importantly, you should have realistic goals about what the procedure can achieve. We’ll conduct thorough health screening to make sure you’re medically cleared, and we want to ensure your expectations align perfectly with what’s surgically possible based on your unique anatomy.

The right age range varies, but we’ve successfully treated patients from their early twenties to their seventies—it’s really more about your skin quality and overall health than your chronological age.

Your Surgical Journey: Step-by-Step Guide

pre-operative consultation and marking for chin liposuction - chin liposuction procedure

Starting your chin liposuction procedure journey can feel both exciting and a little nerve-wracking—and that’s completely normal! At Ideal Face & Body, we’ve designed our process to be as comfortable and straightforward as possible, guiding you through every step with care and expertise.

Your change begins with a thorough consultation where Dr. Sarah Yovino or Dr. Justin Yovino will sit down with you to understand your goals and concerns. We’ll examine your facial anatomy, discuss what’s realistic for your unique situation, and may use 3-D imaging technology to help you visualize your potential results. Think of this as your chance to ask all those questions you’ve been wondering about!

The actual chin liposuction procedure takes place right here in our Beverly Hills office using local anesthesia with optional sedation—no hospital stay required. This approach keeps you comfortable while avoiding the risks and lengthy recovery that come with general anesthesia. After your procedure, we’ll fit you with a specially designed compression garment that supports proper healing and helps you achieve the best possible results.

Infographic showing the timeline of chin liposuction surgery from consultation through recovery milestones - chin liposuction procedure infographic

Pre-operative preparation checklist

Getting ready for your chin liposuction procedure is like preparing for any important event—a little planning goes a long way toward ensuring everything goes smoothly. We’ll provide you with a detailed medication review that includes which medications and supplements to avoid for about two weeks before surgery. This includes common items like aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements that can increase bleeding risk.

If you’re a smoker, now’s the perfect time to quit—and we mean it! Smoking cessation is absolutely crucial, as you’ll need to stop at least four weeks before and after surgery. Smoking dramatically increases your risk of complications and poor healing, but don’t worry—we’re here to support you through this process and can provide resources to help you succeed.

You’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, even though you’ll be awake during surgery. The sedation medication can affect your judgment and reaction time for several hours, so having a trusted friend or family member available is essential. We also recommend having someone stay with you for the first 24 hours to help with basic needs.

Depending on your age and medical history, we may require lab work to ensure you’re in optimal health for surgery. We’ll also give you specific fasting rules about when to stop eating and drinking before your procedure. For more comprehensive preparation information, check out our detailed guide on How to Get Rid of Chin Fat?.

Day-of-surgery workflow for the chin liposuction procedure

The big day is here! When you arrive at our Beverly Hills office, our friendly team will welcome you and help you feel relaxed and comfortable. We know it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

We’ll start by taking before photography for your medical records and to help track your amazing change. After reviewing your consent forms and answering any last-minute questions (no question is too small!), we’ll begin the pre-operative marking process while you’re sitting upright. This careful marking is crucial for achieving symmetric, natural-looking results.

The actual procedure begins with tumescent infiltration—we inject a special solution that includes local anesthesia and medications to control bleeding. Some patients describe a temporary “bullfrog” sensation as the area fills with fluid, but don’t worry—this feeling subsides quickly and actually makes the rest of the procedure much more comfortable.

Once everything is properly prepared, we make tiny micro-incisions in natural creases where any minimal scarring will be virtually invisible. Then comes the artistry—we use our Precision Sculpt technique to make gentle cannula passes and careful sculpting strokes to remove excess fat and contour your new jawline. Throughout the process, we pay close attention to incision care to ensure optimal healing and minimal scarring.

Anesthesia & technique options

We’ve perfected our approach to keep you comfortable while maximizing your safety and results. Our preferred method combines local anesthesia with oral sedation for the chin liposuction procedure. This approach keeps you relaxed and pain-free while allowing you to avoid the risks and extended recovery that come with general anesthesia.

The local anesthesia is injected directly into the treatment area, providing excellent pain control during and immediately after the procedure. For patients who want that extra level of relaxation, we offer oral sedation medications that help you feel calm and drowsy throughout the treatment. You’ll remain conscious and able to respond to our guidance, but most patients find the experience surprisingly pleasant—many even take a little nap!

We may improve your procedure with advanced technologies like laser assistance (SmartLipo) or ultrasound assistance (VASER). These cutting-edge tools help us achieve more precise fat removal while promoting additional skin tightening through controlled heating of the tissues. Radiofrequency adjuncts can also be incorporated to improve collagen remodeling and improve your final results.

Our specialized hemostasis control techniques minimize bleeding and bruising, which translates to faster recovery and better outcomes for you. The tumescent solution we use contains medications that naturally constrict blood vessels, significantly reducing bleeding during the procedure and making your recovery as smooth as possible.

Recovery, Results & Maintenance

patient wearing compression garment after chin liposuction - chin liposuction procedure

Recovery from your chin liposuction procedure is honestly much easier than most people expect. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you bounce back! The key to a smooth recovery lies in following your post-op instructions and being patient with the healing process.

Right after your procedure, you’ll wear a special compression headwrap that might make you look like you’re ready for a spa day. This garment is your best friend during recovery—it helps control swelling, supports your newly contoured jawline, and keeps everything in the right place as you heal.

The swelling curve follows a predictable pattern. You’ll see some immediate improvement in your profile, but expect swelling to peak around day three before gradually subsiding. Some patients experience mild bruising that typically fades within a week or two. A bit of numbness in the treated area is completely normal and usually resolves over several weeks.

Don’t be surprised if you need some lymphatic massage sessions to help move fluid and reduce swelling. Many patients find these sessions quite relaxing! Proper scar care for your tiny incisions is simple—keep them clean and follow our specific instructions. We’ll see you for several follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure everything is healing beautifully.

For comprehensive recovery guidance, visit our detailed Chin Liposuction Recovery page.

First-week timeline after a chin liposuction procedure

Days 1-3 bring the most noticeable changes. You might see some light drainage from your tiny incisions—this is your body’s natural way of healing and nothing to worry about. Your compression garment stays on almost constantly during these first few days, coming off only for gentle showers.

Some patients joke that they initially look like they have an even bigger double chin due to swelling. Don’t panic! This temporary “bullfrog” effect is completely expected and will resolve quickly. The swelling is actually a sign that your body is responding normally to the procedure.

Days 4-7 mark a turning point where you’ll notice the bruising starting to fade and swelling beginning to reduce. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work during this period, especially if their job involves mostly desk work or light activity. You can start removing your compression garment for longer periods, though we typically recommend wearing it at night for continued support.

The discomfort is generally quite manageable—most patients compare it to the feeling after having dental work done. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen usually provide adequate relief. You’ll have a follow-up appointment during this first week where we’ll check your healing and answer any questions about resuming your normal activities.

Long-term results & keeping them

Here’s the exciting part: the fat cells removed during your chin liposuction procedure are gone forever! However, maintaining your gorgeous new jawline does require some simple lifestyle habits that most people find easy to stick with.

Maintaining a stable weight is the most important factor in preserving your results. While the treated fat cells can’t come back, significant weight gain could cause remaining fat cells in the area to enlarge. The good news is that most patients find their improved profile motivates them to maintain healthy habits.

Staying well-hydrated supports your lymphatic system and helps your body continue the healing process even months after surgery. We recommend drinking plenty of water and being mindful of sodium intake, especially during those first few weeks when your body is still recovering.

Daily sunscreen use might seem unrelated, but protecting your neck and chin area from sun damage helps preserve the skin tightening benefits you’ve achieved. Think of it as protecting your investment! A broad-spectrum sunscreen prevents premature aging that could affect your beautiful new contours.

Your results will continue improving for several months as any residual swelling disappears and your skin naturally tightens through collagen remodeling. Most patients are thrilled with how their improved profile changes their confidence in selfies, professional photos, and everyday interactions.

Regular follow-up appointments allow Dr. Sarah Yovino and Dr. Justin Yovino to monitor your progress and celebrate your results with you. For detailed information about how long you can expect your results to last, check out How Long Does Chin Lipo Last?.

Benefits, Risks & Alternatives

before and after results showing improved jawline definition - chin liposuction procedure

When considering the chin liposuction procedure, it’s natural to weigh all your options and understand exactly what you’re signing up for. The truth is, this procedure has transformed countless lives by giving people the confidence to smile freely in photos and feel comfortable in their own skin.

But let’s be honest—no medical procedure is without considerations. As Dr. Sarah Yovino and Dr. Justin Yovino always tell their patients, being fully informed helps you make the best decision for your unique situation. We believe in discussing both the exciting benefits and the potential risks, plus exploring alternatives that might be a better fit for some patients.

The results speak for themselves when you see the dramatic improvement in jawline definition and facial harmony. Beyond the physical changes, there’s something deeply satisfying about finally achieving the profile you’ve always envisioned. According to scientific research on double chin treatment options, surgical fat removal remains the gold standard for permanent results.

Key benefits of the chin liposuction procedure

The confidence boost that comes with a sharper, more defined profile often surprises patients with its intensity. Many tell us they finally feel comfortable taking selfies from any angle, no longer strategically positioning their head or avoiding certain camera angles. There’s something liberating about looking in the mirror and seeing the jawline you’ve always wanted.

The practical benefits extend to your wardrobe choices too. Clothing with fitted necklines suddenly becomes an option when you’re no longer self-conscious about your profile. Turtlenecks, button-up shirts, and crew neck sweaters all look better when you feel confident about your neckline.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect is that this is typically a “one-and-done” treatment. Unlike non-surgical alternatives that require multiple sessions spread over months, the chin liposuction procedure provides permanent fat removal in a single appointment. You invest your time once and enjoy the results for life.

The minimal scarring continues to amaze patients months after their procedure. The tiny incisions, carefully placed in natural creases under the chin, heal to become virtually invisible. Most patients forget where their incisions were located within a few months of healing.

Potential complications & red-flags

While serious complications from the chin liposuction procedure are rare in experienced hands, we believe in preparing you for all possibilities. Asymmetry can occasionally occur if healing progresses differently on each side, though this is usually minor and often improves naturally with time. More significant asymmetries can sometimes be corrected with minor touch-up procedures.

Infection remains a risk with any surgical procedure, though our sterile technique and comprehensive post-operative care instructions keep this risk extremely low. Watch for warning signs like increasing redness, warmth, fever above 100.5°F, or unusual drainage from the incision sites.

Some patients experience temporary changes in skin sensation, including numbness or hypersensitivity in the treated area. This typically resolves gradually over several weeks to months as the nerves heal. Permanent sensory changes are extremely rare but worth mentioning.

Contour irregularities can develop if healing doesn’t progress smoothly or if post-operative instructions aren’t followed carefully. This is exactly why wearing your compression garment as directed and attending all follow-up appointments is so crucial for optimal results.

You should contact our Beverly Hills office immediately if you experience persistent swelling on one side, severe pain not controlled by prescribed medications, or any signs of infection. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major complications, and we’re always here to support you through your recovery.

Alternatives compared to the chin liposuction procedure

Several other treatments address double chins, each with distinct advantages and limitations that might make them more suitable for certain patients. Understanding these options helps ensure you choose the treatment that best aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and anatomy.

Treatment Sessions Needed Downtime Skin Tightening Longevity Best For
Chin Liposuction 1 1-2 weeks Moderate Permanent Excess fat with good skin elasticity
Kybella 2-6 Minimal None Permanent Small amounts of fat, needle-tolerant patients
CoolSculpting 1-3 None None Long-term Mild fat deposits, non-surgical preference
Neck Lift 1 2-3 weeks Excellent Long-term Significant skin laxity with fat

Kybella uses injectable deoxycholic acid to dissolve fat cells but requires multiple sessions and can be quite uncomfortable. The swelling after Kybella injections is often more significant than after liposuction, and results can be inconsistent from session to session.

CoolSculpting employs controlled cooling to freeze fat cells, but it’s less effective for the chin area compared to larger body areas. Multiple sessions are usually required, and there’s no skin tightening benefit—what you see is what you get.

A neck lift addresses both excess fat and loose skin through surgical removal and tightening. This is a more extensive procedure with longer recovery time but provides the most dramatic results for patients with significant skin laxity that the chin liposuction procedure alone couldn’t address.

For patients interested in exploring surgical options further, our comprehensive guide on Chin Fat Reduction Surgery provides detailed comparisons of different surgical approaches to help you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chin Liposuction

Will there be visible scars after the chin liposuction procedure?

One of the biggest concerns patients have is whether they’ll be left with noticeable scars. The good news? The chin liposuction procedure uses incredibly tiny incisions—we’re talking just 3-4mm in length, about the size of a small freckle!

We’re very strategic about where we place these incisions. They go in natural creases under your chin and sometimes behind your ears, spots where any healing marks will blend seamlessly with your natural contours. It’s like hiding a tiny cut in the fold of a piece of paper—it just disappears into the natural landscape of your face.

Most patients are genuinely surprised by how well these little incisions heal. Within just a few weeks, they become thin, light lines that you’d have to search for to find. By the three to six month mark, many patients tell us they’ve completely forgotten where their incisions were located. Even we sometimes have to look closely during follow-up visits!

The key to great healing is following our aftercare instructions. Keep the areas clean, avoid picking or scratching, and let your body do what it does best—heal itself. Some patients benefit from silicone scar sheets or special healing creams, which we can recommend based on how your skin responds during recovery.

How soon can I resume exercise and work?

This is probably our most frequently asked question, and the answer depends on what your typical day looks like. If you work at a desk or computer, most patients feel comfortable returning to work within a few days to a week after their chin liposuction procedure. You might feel a bit tender and want to avoid enthusiastic phone conversations, but mentally and physically, you’ll be ready to tackle your inbox.

For jobs that involve more physical activity or lots of face-to-face interaction, you might want to plan for up to two weeks off. You’ll be wearing a compression garment for the first week, and while it’s not exactly a fashion statement, it’s essential for your best results.

When it comes to exercise, we encourage gentle walking right away—it’s actually great for circulation and helps prevent any complications. But hold off on your usual gym routine, heavy lifting, or anything that gets your heart really pumping for at least two weeks. Think of it as your body’s way of asking for a little vacation while it works on creating your new jawline.

Swimming and hot tubs are off-limits until we clear you at your follow-up appointment. We want to make sure your incisions are completely healed before exposing them to pools, lakes, or any water that might harbor bacteria. Your new profile is worth the temporary sacrifice of your morning swim!

Can I combine chin liposuction with other facial procedures?

Absolutely! The chin liposuction procedure plays very well with other treatments, and combining procedures is actually quite common. It’s like getting a complete facial makeover while only having to go through one recovery period—pretty efficient, right?

Some of our most popular combinations include pairing chin liposuction with neck lifts for patients who have both excess fat and loose skin. We also frequently combine it with chin implants for patients who need both fat removal and additional chin projection to achieve their ideal profile.

Non-surgical treatments can also be part of your facial rejuvenation plan. Botox, dermal fillers, or laser treatments can complement your chin liposuction procedure beautifully, though timing matters. Some treatments work better when done before your liposuction, while others should wait until you’ve healed completely.

The beauty of combining procedures is that you get comprehensive results while streamlining your recovery time and often your overall investment. During your consultation with Dr. Sarah Yovino or Dr. Justin Yovino, we’ll discuss which combination of treatments would work best for your specific goals and facial anatomy.

Every face is unique, so what works perfectly for your friend might not be the ideal approach for you. That’s why we take time to really understand what you’re hoping to achieve and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses all your concerns. For more detailed information about comprehensive facial contouring options, check out our guide on Chin Fat Reduction Surgery.

Conclusion

The chin liposuction procedure has truly transformed how we approach facial contouring at Ideal Face & Body. What makes this treatment so special isn’t just the dramatic results—it’s how quickly and comfortably our patients achieve the confident profile they’ve always dreamed of having.

Our specialized Precision Sculpt awake liposuction technique sets us apart in Beverly Hills and beyond. This innovative approach allows Dr. Sarah Yovino and Dr. Justin Yovino to sculpt your jawline with incredible precision while keeping you comfortable throughout the entire process. No general anesthesia, no lengthy recovery, and virtually no visible scarring—just beautiful, natural-looking results that last a lifetime.

What I love most about this procedure is watching patients see themselves in the mirror for the first time afterward. That moment of realization—when they finally see the defined jawline they’ve always wanted—never gets old. It’s not just about looking better; it’s about feeling more confident in every photo, every video call, and every interaction.

The journey to your ideal profile starts with understanding your unique anatomy and goals. During your personalized consultation, we’ll evaluate whether the chin liposuction procedure is right for you, discuss what to expect, and create a treatment plan that delivers the natural results you’re looking for. Whether genetics gave you a stubborn double chin or aging has changed your facial contours, we have the expertise to help.

Dr. Sarah Yovino and Dr. Justin Yovino bring years of specialized training and thousands of successful procedures to every treatment. Their board-certified expertise, combined with our state-of-the-art Beverly Hills facility, ensures you receive the highest level of care from consultation through final results.

Ready to say goodbye to that double chin once and for all? Your new jawline confidence is just a consultation away. Contact Ideal Face & Body today to schedule your personalized evaluation and find how the chin liposuction procedure can improve your natural beauty. For more comprehensive information about all our contouring options, visit our Chin and Neck Liposuction page.

The profile you’ve always envisioned is absolutely achievable—let our expertise and personalized care make it your reality.

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