While surgery is a direct and quick method to get rid of the double chin, non-surgical treatments are becoming more and more common.

These options are available for most people with a double chin who wish to avoid surgery. (1)

Non-Surgical Double Chin Treatment

Some people benefit from weight loss and targeted exercises in the chin area. However, in many cases, these methods may not be enough, requiring professional medical treatments. If you prefer non-surgical options, here are the most common treatments: (2) 

1- Kybella Injections

Kybella injections are among the most popular FDA-approved non-surgical treatments for double chin. They contain deoxycholic acid, which targets and destroys fat cells under the chin. Typically, patients will need 3-6 injections given about one month apart, and results usually appear within 1-1.5 months following the first session. (3)

Kybella is most effective for low to moderate fat accumulation without sagging skin (it does not work on sagging skin). Local anesthesia is typically used to minimize discomfort during the procedure, though pain may increase once the anesthesia wears off, potentially more so than with fillers or Botox. Swelling in the neck area may persist for up to 10 days post-procedure. (1)(2)

2- Cryolipolysis

Cryolipolysis is another FDA-approved treatment that uses a cooling device applied to the chin for 35-60 minutes. The device freezes and destroys the fat cells beneath the skin, which are then naturally cleared from the body over 4-6 months, resulting in a reduction of the chin size. (4)

This method can be used on other body areas as well, with fat reduction rates reaching up to 20%. (4)

3- Laser Treatment (SculpSure)

This technique uses laser energy to heat and destroy fat cells in the chin area. The majority of patients experience only a bearable sensation of warmth or tingling. (5)

These sessions take about 25 minutes and can destroy up to 24% of the targeted fat. Most people achieve good results after multiple sessions. (5)

Important Considerations

• Choosing the right method: Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the best treatment based on the amount of fat, skin sagging, and your preferences.
• Severity: Severe cases or significant sagging skin may require surgical procedures, such as liposuction along with skin tightening.
• Outcomes:some text
  • While non-surgical techniques may not eliminate a double chin, they can significantly reduce its size.
  • Sometimes, the procedure may require more than one session.
  • Results also depend on the skin type and response to treatment.
• Common side effects: Common side effects include redness, mild pain, swelling, bruising, and numbness, typically resolving within a few days. They can vary depending on the procedure.
• Rare risks: Asymmetric results, infection, and sensory changes.
• Recovery period: Most procedures take from a few days up to a week depending on the procedure.

Double Chin Exercises

Certain exercises can reduce the excess fat in your chin, some of the examples include: (6)

Exercise No.1:

• Stand or sit up straight.
• Tilt your head back, as you are looking at the ceiling.
• Move your lower jaw forward towards the ceiling and hold it for 10 seconds.
• Repeat 10-20 times daily. 

Exercise No.2:

• Open your mouth as widely as possible.
• Stick your tongue out as far as possible.
• Hold for 10 seconds.
• Now, draw your tongue back and repeat.

Exercise No.3:

• Inflate your cheeks with air or water as if you were rinsing your mouth.
• Move air or water strongly between your cheeks for 5-10 minutes.
• Repeat 10-20 times a day.

Plastic Surgeons at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital

Getting rid of a double chin requires highly specialized expertise and deep vision of your face and neck anatomy. A skilled cosmetic surgeon can refine your natural features in the best possible way.

At Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, our board-certified plastic surgeons are highly trained and experienced in both surgical and non-surgical facial procedures. All procedures are performed in our advanced facilities, equipped with the latest technologies, for safe and natural-looking results.

References

1. Johns Hopkins Medicine - Double Chin Surgery: What You Need to Know
2. Dermatology & Plastic Surgery of Arizona - What is the Best Treatment to Correct a Double Chin?
3. American Board of Cosmetic Surgery - Learn More About Neck Contouring
4. American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Nonsurgical Fat Reduction
5. SculpSure - SculpSure
6. WebMD - How to Get Rid of a Double Chi