Considering Double Chin Surgery? Know Your Options

If you have a double chin and want to reduce it, a plastic surgeon might suggest neck liposuction, a neck lift, or a combination of these procedures.

There isn’t a single operation called “double chin surgery.” Instead, surgeons use several techniques to remove surplus fat and tighten neck skin to produce a firmer, more defined jawline and neck contour.

Below is what you should know about surgical treatments for a double chin as well as some less invasive alternatives.

Fast facts

About:

• Recommendations for treating a double chin depend on your skin quality and the results you want to achieve.
• People between roughly 20 and 50 years old with good skin elasticity may be ideal candidates for neck liposuction. This method removes extra fat but does not improve skin laxity.
• A neck lift can address a double chin and also correct sagging or loose neck skin.
• Submentoplasty is a mid-level surgical option that uses liposuction plus small incisions beneath the chin to tighten muscles — often referred to as a “mini” neck lift.
• Surgeons sometimes combine neck liposuction with a neck lift and may recommend these procedures along with a facelift or chin implant.

Safety:

• Chin liposuction can be done under local anesthesia.
• Submentoplasty may be performed with local anesthesia and optional sedation.
• Neck lift operations are usually done under general anesthesia or with IV sedation.
• Possible side effects include swelling, bruising, reduced facial sensation, skin color changes, infection, and facial asymmetry.

Convenience:

• Most patients can return to work within one to two weeks.
• Recovery is typically quicker after liposuction than after a more extensive neck lift.

Cost:

• Because approaches vary, double chin procedures range in price. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery reports costs between $1,200 and $12,700 depending on the technique.

Efficacy:

• If you maintain a stable weight, the results from chin liposuction are permanent, according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.
• How long neck lift outcomes last depends on your skin quality and the type of surgery performed. Your surgeon will review this with you prior to the operation.

What is double chin surgery?

The neck is one of the first areas to show signs of aging, and some people tend to accumulate fat beneath the chin. Extra fat and lax skin can alter the jawline and overall facial silhouette.

Plastic surgeons address a double chin with one of the following procedures:

• Chin liposuction. Removes surplus fat from beneath the chin.
• Submentoplasty. Combines liposuction under the chin with small incisions to tighten muscle and soft tissue.
• Neck lift. Also called lower rhytidectomy, this operation excises extra skin and tightens neck muscles to create a more sculpted facial appearance.

All of these surgeries can minimize the look of a double chin. However, if your skin lacks elasticity and appears loose or sagging, liposuction or submentoplasty may not be suitable; in those cases a neck lift is often recommended.

Before and after photos

How much does double chin surgery cost?

Costs vary based on the surgical method. Liposuction is generally less invasive and shorter in duration than a neck lift. Fees typically include:

• surgeon’s professional fee
• facility and staff charges
• medications and instrument costs
• anesthesia expenses

According to a national survey of member physicians, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery estimates neck contouring procedures cost between $1,200 and $12,700 on average.

How does double chin surgery work?

Chin liposuction involves inserting a small tube called a cannula into several sites beneath the chin. Using gentle suction, measured amounts of fat are removed from each area. The aim is a smoother, more uniform profile with less submental fat.

Submentoplasty uses small incisions under the chin combined with liposuction of the neck to refine contour.

During a neck lift, the surgeon makes incisions behind the ears and sometimes under the chin, removes redundant skin, and tightens neck muscles to improve contour.

Procedures for double chin surgery

Typical steps for chin liposuction include:

1. The surgeon inspects the chin and neck and marks entry points for the cannulas.
2. The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic to lower infection risk.
3. Depending on the plan, sedation is administered or a local anesthetic is injected into the skin.
4. Small incisions are made just large enough to insert the liposuction cannula.
5. The cannula is inserted and moved in a controlled fanning or back-and-forth motion to remove fat. The surgeon monitors how much is removed from each area to ensure a smooth contour.
6. Wound dressings and typically a chin strap are applied to support the tissues during healing.

Submentoplasty and neck lift procedures require incisions. Common steps for a neck lift include:

1. The surgeon marks the chin and neck with lines and arrows indicating the surgical plan.
2. IV sedation or general anesthesia is given.
3. The area is cleansed with antiseptic. Local anesthetic may also be used depending on the anesthesia choice.
4. Incisions are usually placed at the hairline and around and behind the ear. Excess fat and skin may be removed, and the platysma (neck muscle) tightened to create a firmer look.
5. The incisions are closed with glue or sutures, which typically heal discreetly within the hairline.

With submentoplasty, there are fewer incisions and no large skin excision as in a neck lift; instead, the surgeon tightens neck muscles to enhance definition.

Targeted areas for double chin surgery

These surgeries are intended for people who have excess submental fat, skin laxity, or a poorly defined jawline due to additional neck tissue.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Whenever instruments are inserted into the skin, risks are present. Your surgeon should explain these before you consent so you understand the potential complications.

risks of double chin surgery

• facial asymmetry
• bleeding
• anesthesia-related complications, such as breathing difficulties
• reduced skin sensation
• pain or discomfort
• infection
• nerve damage
• scarring
• swelling

It’s also possible the outcome might not meet your expectations. Discuss realistic goals with your surgeon before proceeding.

What to expect after double chin surgery?

Expect swelling and some discomfort after surgery. The neck and chin skin may feel tight because of swelling and bruising. If drains are placed to prevent fluid accumulation, they’re usually removed within a day or two.

Surgeons often recommend applying antibiotic ointment to incision sites and avoiding sun exposure or excessive moisture on the healing areas for several days.

Recovery time depends on the technique used. For chin liposuction, most people return to work within a few days to a week. After a neck lift, plan on about two weeks before returning to work.

Preparing for double chin surgery

Before surgery, have realistic expectations about results and recovery. Ask your surgeon questions to ensure you understand the procedure.

questions to ask your doctor

• What kind of results can I realistically expect?
• Is there anything about my health, skin, or facial structure that might make this procedure less effective?
• How much downtime will I need?
• Am I at higher risk for certain complications?
• How can I reduce my risks?
• When should I contact you during recovery if I have concerns?

Arrange transportation to and from the surgery center. Bring comfortable clothing to wear home.

Prepare soft foods to eat once your doctor clears you, and fill any prescriptions ahead of time so you have what you need at home for recovery.

Double chin surgery vs. Kybella

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment for excess submental fat. Its active ingredient is deoxycholic acid, which destroys fat cells.

Kybella differs from surgery in several ways:

• Multiple sessions are usually needed — often up to six treatments at monthly intervals to achieve results.
• Topical or local anesthetic is applied before the injection in the treatment area.
• Side effects can include pain, swelling, bruising, redness, and numbness. Rare but possible complications are allergic reactions, facial nerve injury, or difficulty swallowing.
• Kybella is not ideal for people with significant skin laxity or loose neck muscles; it treats only excess fat beneath the chin.
• Average cost is roughly $1,200 to $1,800 per session. If multiple sessions are required, liposuction may be more economical.
• Results are permanent because treated fat cells are destroyed.

How to find a provider

Start by looking for a board-certified plastic or cosmetic surgeon if you’re considering double chin surgery or other facial procedures.

help finding a qualified doctor

The following organizations can help you locate physicians who have completed rigorous certification processes:

• American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: www.aafprs.org
• American Board of Cosmetic Surgery: www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org
• American Board of Plastic Surgery: www.abplasticsurgery.org
• International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery: www.isaps.org

Most directories let you search by location to find a surgeon near you.