Are you self-conscious of your double chin? You’re not alone. Double chins are often caused by various factors such as aging, weight gain, and even genetics. And despite our best efforts, sometimes the fat under the chin is resistant to weight loss. While surgical procedures, such as a neck lift or liposuction are popular options for double chin removal, they’re not the only options available. Non-surgical treatments have become more popular in recent years, and they offer a less invasive and sometimes more affordable alternative for those who don’t want to undergo surgery.
Let’s face it, surgery can be intimidating and most of us don’t want to take the risk or go through the downtime associated with surgical procedures. Luckily, non-surgical double chin removal options offer a great alternative and eliminate the need for surgery. If you’re interested in getting rid of your double chin without surgery, follow along as we explore some of the most popular non-surgical options for double chin removal.
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting is a non-surgical fat reduction treatment that uses a technique called cryolipolysis to freeze and destroy fat cells. During this treatment, a gel pad is first placed on the targeted area to protect the skin. Then, the CoolSculpting applicator is applied to the targeted area, in this case on the submental region (the area under the chin). The device then uses a suction mechanism to pull the submental tissue into the applicator and delivers controlled cooling to the area, freezing the fat cells.
As the fat cells freeze, they undergo a natural process called apoptosis, where they gradually die off and are naturally eliminated from the body over time. Most patients will require one to two CoolSculpting treatments for optimal results, and each treatment typically takes about 35- to 60-minutes to complete. Luckily, there is no downtime required after the treatment, and you can typically return to your normal activities immediately after the procedure.
One thing to keep in mind is CoolSculpting is not a weight loss treatment. To maintain results, you’ll likely need to make lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. It’s also not suitable for everyone but a consultation with a qualified provider can help determine if you’re a good candidate.
Kybella
Another great non-surgical option for double chin removal is Kybella. This injectable treatment uses deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, to destroy fat cells in the submental area. The treatment is minimally invasive, and requires little to no downtime — patients can typically resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
For optimal results, most patients require only two to six treatments. And you can expect each session to last about 15- to 20-minutes. Healthline explains that once the product is injected, “the acid destroys fat cells beneath the chin area so it can’t store fat anymore.”
Before the procedure, the trained professional will mark the injection sites and administer a topical numbing agent or ice pack to help ease any discomfort. Then the injections are administered under the chin, typically 20 to 30 injections are used but sometimes up to 50 are necessary. Over time, the acid will destroy the fat cells and then they’re naturally eliminated by the body over the next few weeks.
Thermage
Thermage is a non-surgical treatment that uses radiofrequency to tighten and contour the skin, making it an effective option if you want to diminish your double chin. The treatment works by delivering radiofrequency energy to the submental area, which heats up the collagen fibers in the skin, causing them to contract and tighten. This tightening effect results in a more defined jawline and reduces the appearance of a double chin.
What’s unique about this treatment is Theramge delivers results after a single treatment and your results will continue to improve over time. For most patients, results will begin to appear gradually within 2- to 6-months following one treatment session. Results can also last up to 1- to 2-years, depending on your skin condition and aging process.
During the treatment, a handheld device is placed on the submental area and delivers radiofrequency energy in short pulses. Treatments typically take 30-minutes up to 1-hour to complete. And like other treatments on this list, there is no downtime after your treatment.
Ultherapy
Ultherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin in the submental area. The treatment is FDA-approved and has been used for over a decade to rejuvenate the face and neck. By targeting the deep tissue layers that support the skin, Ultherapy can tighten and lift the skin around the neck and chin. As a result, this can reduce the appearance of a double chin and improve the overall contour of your face.
During the procedure, a handheld device is placed on the skin, which emits ultrasound waves that penetrate deep into the tissue layers, creating controlled damage. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, leading to the production of new collagen fibers that tighten and lift the skin. The procedure is also quick, with most treatments taking around 30- to 60-minutes to complete. Results are gradual, with optimal results seen 3- to 6-months after treatment.
Laser Lipolysis
Laser lipolysis is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to melt away fat cells. During the procedure, a small laser fiber is inserted through a tiny incision under the chin, and the laser energy is used to heat and liquefy the fat cells. The melted fat is then suctioned out through the same incision or allowed to be absorbed by the body. Though this procedure may be more invasive than some of the other treatments on this list, it’s still a far less invasive option than traditional liposuction. It also has a shorter recovery time and can be done under local anesthesia and an oral sedative. But due to this, you won’t be able to drive home after the procedure.
Treatment typically takes 30-minutes and patients can usually return to work after a couple of days. Low-impact exercise is usually permitted after 2-days and more strenuous activities can resume after 2- to 3-weeks. Results are usually noticeable within a few weeks but optimal results are seen after several months. As with any cosmetic procedure, it is essential to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine if laser lipolysis is the right option for your specific needs and goals.
