How Can I Get Rid of My Double Chin?

You may be able to diminish a double chin through targeted exercises, weight loss, or certain medical treatments.

A double chin, medically called submental fat, occurs when a pad of fat accumulates under your chin. While it’s frequently linked to gaining weight, genetics or loosened skin from aging can also be responsible.

Read on to learn what contributes to a double chin and what approaches can help reduce it.

What does a double chin look like?

Can I reduce my double chin naturally?

If your double chin stems from extra body weight, slimming down may shrink it or eliminate it entirely. The most effective route to weight loss is a nutritious diet combined with regular physical activity.

Examples of healthy eating habits include:

• Consume more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
• Swap refined grains for whole-grain options.
• Limit processed and packaged foods.
• Choose lean proteins like poultry and fish.
• Include healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts.
• Select low-fat dairy choices.
• Keep within your recommended daily calorie allowance.

Alongside a balanced diet, you’ll need to increase your physical activity to lose weight.

As you shed pounds, your facial fullness may decrease.

What other treatments can reduce a double chin?

If genetics are the primary cause of your double chin, firming the area with exercises may help, though results aren’t guaranteed. In such situations, a clinician might suggest surgical or minimally invasive options including:

Lipolysis

Also called liposculpture, lipolysis involves liposuction or laser-generated heat to liquefy fat and reshape the area. Typically, a local anesthetic is sufficient when performing lipolysis to address submental fullness.

Lipolysis targets fat only; it does not remove excess skin or improve skin elasticity. Common side effects can include:

• swelling
• bruising
• pain

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is a minimally invasive approach that administers small doses of fat-reducing substances through multiple injections.

In 2015, the FDA approved deoxycholic acid (marketed as Kybella), an injectable used during mesotherapy. Deoxycholic acid aids the body in breaking down and absorbing fat.

Treating a double chin may require around 20 or more injections of deoxycholic acid per session. You can receive up to six sessions in total, with a minimum interval of one month between treatments.

Improper injection of deoxycholic acid can cause significant nerve injury. Only a dermatologist or a physician experienced in plastic surgery and familiar with the medication should administer these injections.

Possible adverse effects of deoxycholic acid and other injected agents include:

• swelling
• bruising
• pain
• numbness
• redness

How else can you address a double chin?

The most reliable method to reduce excess fat anywhere on the body is to adopt a healthy diet and maintain consistent exercise.

Be patient when attempting to reduce a double chin. Unless you opt for liposuction or laser lipolysis, changes won’t happen instantly. Depending on how pronounced the fullness is, it may require several months before it becomes less evident.

Keeping a healthy weight can prevent the development of a double chin in many people. That approach also lowers your overall risk of:

• diabetes
• high blood pressure
• sleep apnea
• heart disease
• certain cancers
• stroke

Frequently asked questions

What causes a double chin?

A double chin can result from various factors. Genetics are often involved, as are weight gain, lax skin, aging, or a receding jawline.

Can double chins disappear?

A double chin can diminish on its own, particularly when it’s due to weight gain. It’s more challenging to eliminate one rooted in genetic factors. If the issue is sagging skin, surgical removal may be necessary. Even losing weight does not always guarantee complete resolution; performing chin-targeted exercises can improve the odds.

How can you get rid of a double chin quickly?

There is no quick non-surgical solution to remove a double chin other than undergoing an operation, which still involves recovery time. If excess weight is the culprit, the most effective strategy is a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and routine exercise.

Does chewing gum help a double chin?

Chewing gum might enhance chewing and swallowing function, according to some research. However, it won’t sculpt a defined jawline; studies indicate it primarily strengthens tongue and cheek muscles.

Read more about why chewing gum isn’t proven to improve jaw appearance.

Takeaway

Several factors can lead to a double chin. Unless you’re sure genetics are the root cause, try weight loss, cardiovascular activity, and chin exercises before considering an invasive procedure.

Speak with your doctor before beginning a diet or exercise regimen. They can address any health issues, help you set realistic weight-loss targets, and suggest a nutrition plan that fits your routine.

If lifestyle measures don’t reduce your double chin, consult your physician about whether an invasive treatment is appropriate for you.