The double chin can be difficult to avoid, particularly in middle age and beyond. Let’s face it, no one is a fan of the look—so what can we do about it? In this post, we will cover how to get rid of a double chin.
What a Double Chin?
A double chin, also known as submental fat, is a common condition marked by the presence of excess fat under the chin and neck, creating the appearance of a “second chin”.
Why Do I Have a Double Chin?
The double chin is one of the most common concerns we encounter in the field of cosmetic dermatology. There are a number of factors that can cause the development of a double chin ranging from your DNA to diet and age. The good news is that there are a range of effective solutions for improving or eliminating the appearance of a double chin.
A variety of factors can contribute to the development of a double chin including:
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to having a double chin, due to factors such as skin elasticity and fat distribution.
- Aging: As we age, the skin loses its elasticity and the muscles in the body weaken, including those in the neck and chin area.
- Diet and Weight: Weight gain and a diet high in calories, processed foods, and unhealthy fats can lead to the formation of a double chin.
- Lifestyle: Sedentary behavior and poor posture can weaken the muscles of the neck and chin, contributing to a double chin.
Surgical Options for Eliminating a Double Chin
Cosmetic surgery would be the most aggressive approach to getting rid of a double chin, It’s also the costliest, but the recovery time is relatively short as far as surgical procedures go. Once upon a time, surgery was the only effective option for getting rid of a double chin, but that is no longer the case.
- Liposuction: This procedure involves the surgical removal of fat from the body, including the area under the chin. It’s an invasive procedure requiring local or general anesthesia. The recovery time varies, but you can usually return to work within a few days. Risks include infection, scarring, and irregular contours.
- Neck lift: This cosmetic surgical procedure tightens loose, sagging skin under the chin and on the neck, reducing the appearance of a double chin. It’s an invasive procedure that requires general anesthesia. It does have a longer recovery period than liposuction. Risks include bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. The cost of a neck lift also varies widely.
Non-Surgical Options Eliminating a Double Chin
Non-surgical options for getting rid of a double chin are becoming increasingly popular for a number of reasons. The biggest advantage over surgical procedures like liposuction is that there are no incisions or cutting and no anesthesia is needed. This substantially reduces the risk of complications and also makes these non-surgical methods of eliminating a double chin more cost-effective and simplifies recovery.
- Kybella: Kybella is an injectable medicine that reduces fat in a targeted area, so applied under the chin it can substantially reduce the appearance of a double chin. Kybella works by destroying fat cells, in a localized area, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. Side effects may include swelling, bruising, numbness, and small, hard areas under the chin. Some people need multiple Kybella treatments to achieve the results they are after.
- Ultherapy: Another approach to tightening up a mild double chin and firming up the appearance of the jawline is Ultherapy. We utilize Ultherapy in part because it stimulates collagen production, unlike CoolSculpting. Ultherapy also has the added benefit of smoothing lines and creases due to sun damage.
Natural Remedies for Getting Rid of Your Double Chin
If your double chin is especially mild or you want to potentially improve the results of a cosmetic procedure or process, it’s worth considering some of these natural remedies for treating your double chin.
- Facial Exercises: Some specialized exercises can help strengthen the muscles in your neck, jaw, and face, potentially reducing the appearance of a double chin.
- Weight Loss: If your double chin is due to weight gain, losing weight through a healthy diet and physical activity can help, and having a healthy BMI is always a good idea for general health.
- Diet Changes: Adding certain foods like green tea, eggs, fish, and lean protein to your diet can help burn fat and promote weight loss, possibly helping to reduce a double chin.
The Herschthal Practice is Here to Help You Look Your Best
The days when we simply had to accept a double chin as a rite of passage are over. You have effective options to treat this condition and fine-tune your appearance to your desire. The advanced non-surgical treatments available now, including Kybella and Ultherapy make getting rid of a double chin easier than ever.
The Herschthal Practice provides a broad range of cosmetic dermatology services to help you look your best. We also offer a broad range of products to help you give your skin the royal treatment at home. Please visit our online shop to see the exceptional products on offer. If you would like a consultation or ask about our services, please give us a call at (561) 391-9200 or simply follow this link to book an appointment online.
