If you’re looking for an effective solution to eliminate your double chin, liposuction is a proven method for banishing this stubborn fat for a more defined jawline and neck.
Often frustratingly resistant to diet and exercise, submental fat creates the appearance of a double chin and affects men and women alike. In this blog post, I’ll answer some of the most common questions about double chin lipo.
1. How Does Liposuction Work?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body. During the procedure, small incisions are made near the targeted area. A thin tube called a cannula is inserted, and the excess fat is suctioned away.
To meet each patient’s specific needs and goals, I offer 2 liposuction techniques in my practice:
- Tumescent liposuction: A saline solution combined with a local anesthetic and epinephrine is injected. After the fluid saturates the treatment area, a small cannula is inserted to suction out the fat carefully.
- Ultrasound-assisted VASERlipo®: VASERlipo involves an extra step. During ultrasound-assisted liposuction, an ultrasound probe is introduced into the fat after the tumescent solution infuses the area. The heat generated by the ultrasound helps break down the fat between the fibers underneath the skin, and the cannula suctions it away.
2. How Can Liposuction Get Rid of a Double Chin?
Liposuction effectively eliminates submental fat under the chin to precisely sculpt and contour the area. Removing this fat restores a more defined and youthful jawline, enhancing your facial aesthetics and overall profile.
3. Who Is a Good Candidate for Double Chin Lipo?
Ideal candidates typically:
- Are no more than 20 pounds overweight
- Possess good skin quality and elasticity
- Are in overall good health
- Have realistic expectations
- Are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after the procedure
4. How Does Liposuction Compare to Nonsurgical Options?
CoolSculpting® is a popular nonsurgical treatment that uses controlled cooling to freeze and destroy fat cells. Several sessions are typically required to achieve the desired results. Liposuction differs from CoolSculpting, providing immediate and dramatic outcomes in a single procedure, allowing for targeted and customizable fat removal.
5. Will I Have Scars?
One of the advantages of double chin liposuction is that the incisions are minimal and strategically placed to minimize scarring. When I perform submental liposuction, I use techniques that promote rapid healing and reduce the risk of noticeable scarring. Over time, scars will typically fade, flatten, and become less noticeable, leaving you with attractive, natural-looking results.
6. What Is Recovery Like?
Recovery after liposuction is generally well-tolerated, and most patients experience a smooth healing process. Immediately following the procedure, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the treated area. You’ll see improvements in your jawline and neck contour as healing progresses. Swelling is typically almost entirely gone by week 6. Depending on individual healing rates, most patients can return to work and resume their normal activities within 3 to 7 days after the procedure.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’d like to speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon about double chin liposuction options, call our Richmond, VA, office today at (804) 267-6009 or request a consultation.