Double Chin Removal: Your Best Options 2026

Understanding Your Double Chin: A Common Concern

Double chin removal offers both surgical and non-surgical solutions to reduce submental fat—the excess fat beneath your chin that creates a fold of skin. Here’s what you need to know:

Quick Overview of Double Chin Removal Options:

What is a double chin? It’s excess fat that accumulates beneath your chin, also called submental fullness. This common concern affects 68% of people, according to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

What causes it? A double chin can develop from several factors:

• Genetics – You may be predisposed to storing fat in this area
• Aging – Skin loses elasticity and muscles weaken over time
• Weight fluctuations – Gaining or losing weight affects fat distribution
• Poor posture – Weakens neck muscles and contributes to sagging

Many people find that diet and exercise alone don’t eliminate stubborn submental fat. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps, the fat cells in this area often resist traditional weight loss efforts. Additionally, loose skin from aging or weight loss can make the issue more visible, even in people at a healthy weight.

The good news? Modern treatments—both surgical and non-surgical—can permanently destroy fat cells or remove excess tissue, revealing a more defined jawline and youthful profile.

I’m Dr. Sarah Yovino, a double board-certified master injector specializing in non-surgical medical aesthetics at Ideal Face & Body in Beverly Hills, CA. With extensive training in pain management and years of mentorship in cosmetic procedures, I’ve helped countless patients achieve their aesthetic goals through both minimally invasive double chin removal options and comprehensive treatment plans. Whether you’re considering injectable treatments, fat freezing, or surgical contouring, understanding your options is the first step toward achieving the profile you desire.

Basic double chin removal terms:

• chin liposuction recovery
• chin liposuction price
• non-surgical chin reduction

Non-Surgical Treatments: Minimally Invasive Options

For those looking to refine their jawline without going under the knife, we offer a range of non-surgical double chin removal treatments. These options are particularly well-suited for individuals with good skin elasticity and mild-to-moderate submental fat. The beauty of these minimally invasive approaches lies in their ability to deliver gradual, natural-looking results with significantly less downtime than surgical alternatives. However, it’s important to understand that achieving your desired outcome often requires multiple treatment sessions.

Fat-Dissolving Injections

Imagine a treatment that simply melts away unwanted fat. That’s essentially what fat-dissolving injections, like Kybella (known as Belkyra in some regions), offer for double chin removal. The star ingredient here is deoxycholic acid.

What is deoxycholic acid and how does it work?
Deoxycholic acid is a synthetic form of a naturally occurring molecule in your body. It’s found in your gallbladder, where it helps break down and absorb dietary fats. When we precisely inject synthetic deoxycholic acid into the fat beneath your chin, it acts like a tiny fat-destroying superhero. It attacks the cell membranes of the fat cells, causing them to break down. Once these fat cells are destroyed, your body naturally metabolizes and eliminates them. The exciting part? Once these fat cells are destroyed, they can no longer store or accumulate fat, leading to a permanent reduction in fullness under the chin.

While the concept is fascinating and the results can be quite impressive, it’s important to have realistic expectations, as it is not always a “fast, easy solution.” Patients can typically expect to undergo three to five injection sessions, although some may require up to six, spaced at least one month apart. Each session usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

What are the potential side effects?
The most common side effects include swelling, bruising, pain, redness, and numbness in the treated area. These usually resolve within a few days to a week. You might experience a swollen neck for about 10 days after each treatment session, which is why some patients prefer to schedule their treatments before a quiet period. Rarer but more serious side effects can include temporary nerve injury in the jaw (which can cause an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness), difficulty swallowing, skin ulceration, and hair loss at the injection site. These serious side effects are uncommon and typically temporary.

It’s crucial to remember that while the destroyed fat cells are gone for good, maintaining a stable weight is key to preserving your results. Significant weight gain after treatment can lead to new fat accumulating in other areas, potentially affecting your profile. For more in-depth information on this innovative treatment, you can explore fat-dissolving treatments for a double chin.

Fat Freezing (Cryolipolysis)

Another popular non-surgical option for double chin removal is fat freezing, scientifically known as cryolipolysis. This method uses controlled cooling to target and eliminate stubborn fat cells. The CoolSculpting® with CoolMini™ applicator is specifically designed for the submental area.

How does fat freezing work?
During a cryolipolysis session, a specialized handpiece is placed under your chin. This device precisely chills the fat cells to a temperature that causes them to crystallize and eventually die, without harming the surrounding skin or tissues. Over the following weeks and months, your body’s lymphatic system naturally processes and eliminates these damaged fat cells.

A typical CoolMini™ treatment session takes about an hour. Results are gradual, with optimal outcomes usually becoming visible over two to three months as your body flushes out the destroyed fat cells. While some patients may see results after one session, many opt for two to three treatments to achieve their desired contour. This treatment is ideal for individuals with discernible fat bulges and good skin elasticity.

What about side effects?
Common side effects are generally mild and temporary, including temporary redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, stinging, aching, itching, and skin sensitivity, as well as numbness in the treated area.

Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments

Radiofrequency (RF) treatments offer a non-invasive way to tighten skin and improve contours. While not primarily a fat-reduction method for a double chin, RF energy can be very effective in stimulating collagen production. This process helps to firm and tighten the skin in the submental area, which can significantly improve the appearance of your jawline, especially if loose or lax skin is contributing to your double chin.

RF treatments work by delivering controlled heat to the deeper layers of the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing response and promoting the growth of new collagen and elastin fibers. This leads to a gradual tightening and smoothing effect. Often, RF treatments are used in combination with fat-reduction methods like deoxycholic acid injections or cryolipolysis to achieve a more comprehensive and refined result, addressing both fat and skin laxity. Downtime is typically minimal to none, making it a convenient option for many patients.

Surgical Double Chin Removal: Definitive Contouring

For those with moderate-to-severe submental fat or significant skin laxity, surgical double chin removal can offer more dramatic and often immediate results. These procedures are performed by a qualified plastic surgeon and can profoundly redefine the jawline and neck profile.

Chin Liposuction (Submental Liposuction)

Chin liposuction is one of the most popular and effective surgical options for double chin removal. It’s a fantastic solution for individuals with stubborn fat pockets under the chin that resist diet and exercise, even if they are at a healthy weight.

The Procedure:
Chin liposuction removes excess fat from beneath the skin and sculpts the chin and neck contour, creating a more defined and chiseled jawline. The procedure typically involves making very small, discreet incisions (usually 2-5 mm) in concealed areas, often under the chin or behind the ears. Through these tiny openings, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted. We then use this cannula to gently suction out the unwanted fat.

At Ideal Face & Body, we specialize in “Precision Sculpt” awake liposuction, which allows for meticulous contouring while ensuring patient comfort. The procedure is surprisingly quick, often lasting only 15 to 20 minutes. One of the greatest advantages is that the fat cells removed during liposuction are permanently gone, meaning they won’t return to the treated area. While it might seem like a more significant step upfront, many patients find it to be a more cost-effective long-term solution compared to non-invasive treatments that may require multiple sessions.

Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty)

Sometimes, a double chin isn’t just about excess fat; it’s also about loose skin and weakened muscles. This is where a neck lift, or platysmaplasty, comes into play. A neck lift is a more comprehensive surgical approach to double chin removal that addresses not only fat but also the underlying muscle structure and skin laxity.

Addressing the underlying issues:
As we age, the platysma muscle (a broad sheet of muscle in the neck) can loosen and separate, creating vertical bands that contribute to a “turkey neck” appearance. Excess skin can also sag, further obscuring the jawline. A neck lift directly targets these concerns. During the procedure, excess fat can be removed, the platysma muscle is tightened and repositioned, and any excess, sagging skin is carefully trimmed away. This results in a smoother, firmer neck and a more youthful, defined jawline. A neck lift is often performed in conjunction with a facelift for a more harmonious overall facial rejuvenation.

There are different types of neck lifts:

• Cervicoplasty: Focuses primarily on removing excess skin.
• Platysmaplasty: Concentrates on tightening and repositioning the neck muscles.
  Often, a combination of these techniques is used to achieve the best possible outcome.

Recovery and What to Expect After Surgical Double Chin Removal

Undergoing surgical double chin removal is a significant decision, and understanding the recovery process is key to a smooth experience and optimal results.

Typical Downtime:
For procedures like chin liposuction or a neck lift, patients typically experience a downtime of about one to two weeks. During this period, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which usually peaks within the first few days and then gradually subsides over 10 to 14 days. Your skin may also feel tight for several months as it heals and settles into its new contour.

Post-Procedure Care:
We provide detailed instructions for post-operative care, which are crucial for proper healing and to minimize complications. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Compression Garments: You will likely need to wear a compression garment or chin strap continuously for the first one to two weeks, and then possibly at night for an additional few weeks. This helps to reduce swelling, support the healing tissues, and ensure optimal contouring.
• Managing Swelling and Bruising: Applying cold compresses (avoiding direct ice) can help with swelling and discomfort. Keeping your head liftd, especially while sleeping, is also highly recommended.
• Activity Restrictions: We advise limiting strenuous activities, heavy lifting (typically over 10 lbs), and any actions that significantly increase your heart rate or blood pressure for at least two weeks. This includes avoiding vigorous exercise.
• Medication: We will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort. It’s important to avoid certain medications, like blood thinners, and to refrain from smoking before and after surgery, as these can increase bleeding risks and impair healing.
• Hygiene: Keep your incision sites clean and dry. We will provide specific instructions on when you can shower and how to care for any drains that may be in place to remove fluid.
• When to Call Us: It’s important to contact our team immediately if you experience signs of infection (such as excessive bleeding, unusual drainage, increasing redness, fever higher than 100.5°F, or severe pain not managed by medication), chest pain, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.

Most patients can return to work and resume many normal daily activities within one to two weeks, though full healing of incisions can take several months. The final, refined contour will become more apparent as the swelling completely resolves.

Choosing Your Path: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical

Deciding between surgical and non-surgical double chin removal options can feel like a big choice, but it ultimately comes down to your individual goals, the amount of submental fat you have, your skin elasticity, and your lifestyle.

Non-surgical treatments like fat-dissolving injections and cryolipolysis are fantastic for targeting mild to moderate fat pockets, especially if your skin still has good elasticity. They offer the appeal of minimal downtime and gradual, discreet improvements. Think of them as subtle sculptors, refining your profile over a few sessions.

Surgical options, on the other hand, are often the go-to for more significant fat reduction or when loose skin is a primary concern. Procedures like chin liposuction provide more immediate and dramatic results, while a neck lift can address both fat and skin laxity for comprehensive rejuvenation. These are definitive solutions for those seeking a more pronounced change.

The most crucial step in this journey is a professional consultation. At Ideal Face & Body in Beverly Hills, CA, Dr. Sarah Yovino and Dr. Justin Yovino will carefully assess your unique anatomy, discuss your aesthetic aspirations, and help you determine the best path forward. We’ll explore whether a non-surgical approach, a surgical procedure, or even a combination of treatments is most suitable for achieving the jawline you’ve always wanted.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you weigh your options:

Frequently Asked Questions about Double Chin Removal

We understand you likely have many questions when considering double chin removal. Here are some of the most common inquiries we receive:

How long do the results of double chin treatments last?

The longevity of your double chin removal results largely depends on the type of treatment you choose and your lifestyle habits moving forward.

For surgical procedures like chin liposuction, the fat cells are physically removed from your body. This means the results are generally considered permanent in the treated area. The fat cells that were suctioned out cannot return. However, your body can still accumulate new fat cells in other areas if you gain a significant amount of weight. Additionally, the natural aging process will continue, which can affect skin elasticity over time. A neck lift, which tightens muscles and removes excess skin, provides long-lasting rejuvenation, but it doesn’t stop the aging process entirely.

For non-surgical treatments such as fat-dissolving injections (like Kybella) and fat freezing (cryolipolysis), the mechanism involves destroying fat cells. Once these fat cells are destroyed, they are permanently eliminated from your body and cannot store or accumulate fat again. This leads to durable results. Similar to surgery, however, significant weight gain after treatment can lead to new fat accumulation in other areas, potentially impacting your overall profile. For treatments primarily focused on skin tightening, like radiofrequency, results can last for a substantial period, but maintenance sessions may be recommended to sustain the collagen-boosting effects over time.

Maintaining a stable, healthy weight through diet and exercise is the best way to ensure your double chin removal results last as long as possible.

Who is an ideal candidate for these procedures?

Determining if you’re an ideal candidate for double chin removal involves a personalized assessment, but here are some general guidelines:

• General Candidacy: You are bothered by submental fullness, have realistic expectations about the outcomes, and are in good overall health. Many individuals, regardless of gender, feel self-conscious about their double chin.
• For Non-Surgical Treatments (e.g., Fat-Dissolving Injections, Cryolipolysis): You typically have mild to moderate submental fat and good skin elasticity. These treatments are best for targeting localized fat pockets without significant skin laxity. For instance, Kybella is not recommended for individuals under 18, those with difficulty swallowing, bleeding problems, weak facial muscles, infections under the chin, or a lot of sagging skin.
• For Surgical Treatments (e.g., Chin Liposuction, Neck Lift): You may have moderate to severe submental fat, along with noticeable skin laxity or muscle banding in the neck area. Surgical options can provide more comprehensive contouring and address both fat and sagging skin. You should be a non-smoker and discuss any serious health conditions with your surgeon to assess risks associated with general anesthesia.

During your consultation at Ideal Face & Body in Beverly Hills, CA, Dr. Sarah Yovino and Dr. Justin Yovino will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine which treatment or combination of treatments is best suited for your specific needs and goals.

What are the potential risks and benefits?

Every medical procedure, whether surgical or non-surgical, comes with potential risks and benefits. We believe in open communication and ensuring you are fully informed before making any decisions about double chin removal.

Benefits:
The primary benefit of double chin removal is an improved aesthetic appearance. Patients often report:

• A more defined and well-shaped chin and neck profile.
• A younger and thinner appearance.
• Smoother skin in the submental area.
• Increased self-confidence and satisfaction with their facial profile.
• The permanent elimination of fat cells in the treated area (for liposuction, Kybella, and CoolSculpting).

Potential Risks:

For Non-Surgical Treatments (e.g., Fat-Dissolving Injections, Cryolipolysis):

• Common Side Effects: Swelling, bruising, pain, redness, numbness, tenderness, and hardness in the treated area. These are usually temporary and resolve within days to weeks.
• Rarer but More Serious Side Effects (especially with Kybella): Temporary nerve injury in the jaw (can cause an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness, typically resolving in a median of 44 days), difficulty swallowing (typically resolving in a median of 3 days), skin ulceration, and hair loss at the injection site. CoolSculpting has a rare risk of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, where the fat layer thickens instead of reduces.

For Surgical Treatments (e.g., Chin Liposuction, Neck Lift):

• General Surgical Risks: Asymmetry, bleeding, blood clots, complications related to anesthesia, infection, and poor incision healing.
• Specific Risks: Nerve damage, hair loss at incision sites, hematoma (blood collection under the skin), scarring, skin irregularities, and unsatisfactory cosmetic results. Individuals who smoke or take anti-clotting drugs may have increased bleeding risks.

We will discuss all potential risks and benefits in detail during your personalized consultation at our Beverly Hills, CA office, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.

Redefine Your Profile in Beverly Hills, CA

We understand that living in a tech-driven world, where selfies and video calls are commonplace, can heighten self-consciousness about perceived imperfections like a double chin. But you don’t have to live with it. Whether you’re bothered by localized fat, sagging skin, or both, modern double chin removal techniques offer effective solutions to help you achieve a more contoured and confident profile.

At Ideal Face & Body in Beverly Hills, CA, we specialize in helping our patients redefine their aesthetics. Our expertise, including advanced techniques like “Precision Sculpt” awake liposuction, allows us to tailor a treatment plan that aligns perfectly with your unique anatomy and desired outcomes.

Dr. Sarah Yovino and Dr. Justin Yovino are dedicated to providing personalized care, guiding you through every step, from initial consultation to recovery. We’ll assess your situation, discuss the nuances of surgical versus non-surgical options, and help you choose the right path for your goals.

Ready to unmask your jawline and accept a more sculpted you? We invite you to explore the possibilities with us.

Schedule your chin and neck liposuction consultation today and let us help you achieve the confident profile you deserve.