Before we discuss the most effective treatment for a double chin, it’s important to first define the term. A double chin is a euphemistic term. Patients who come in with this problem don’t really have two chins. Instead there’s a chin, and then there’s a neck convexity that makes it look like there are two chins.
Most people desire an angular jaw neckline. In fact, if you look at most pictures in ads, the neck is darkened which makes the brightness on the chin and jawline look like there’s a highlight between bright light and shadow, and that makes the model’s face look very angular.
Patients come in because they don’t like their chin and neckline. The first thing that I do is ask myself what might have caused their less than ideal situation.
Most times a double chin is caused by one of these four things or some combination of two or three of these things:
- Weak chin
If the chin is weak, meaning it’s receded, it can make the skin and fat redundant under the chin. This type of patient would do well with some chin projection in the form of filler or an implant. - Too much fat on the chin and/or under it
This is very common and can be helped with liposuction through a tiny incision. In a young person the skin will bounce back, but in an older person I might suggest a lift as well. - Lax muscles
These show up as vertical bands in the neck, especially when a person shows me their bottom teeth. Just that action pushes the bands out further. This one is an easy fix with a little Botulinum Toxin. - Sagging skin
As we age and the skin sag and droops downward. The hanging skin can appear as a double chin. In this case a neck lift might be in order.
Many times a combination of any of the above is what’s needed to get the desired result. I address my patient’s concerns on an individual basis and then present a plan. it’s very common for me to do a combination of a chin augmentation with a small implant or filler combined with some liposuction or maybe a patient might need some liposuction to remove the fat and a neck lift where I cut the muscles to allow them to re-drape and the skin to lay flatter and more taut.
A consultation and diagnosis is key to getting the best results. So often I’ll get somebody that comes in asking for liposuction but their skin is saggy. By removing fat, the skin will sag more. This means they’re not a great candidate for liposuction alone and would do better with a combo liposuction with neck lift.
How much does it cost to get rid of a double chin?
It depends on your situation and the surgeon performing the procedure. I diagnose my patients very carefully and make a decision on what to do based on their unique needs. While it’s ultimately the patient’s decision, I like tp help them to make an informed choice.
Consults are key. Diagnosis is key. Come see me. We’ll diagnose you and if you like what I come up with, we’ll treat you. I can answer all of your questions about your chin, your jawline, your neckline, and anything else that concerns you about your appearance.
About Dr. Jonathan Sykes
Dr. Jonathan Sykes is a world-famous expert plastic surgeon who performs all cosmetic and functional plastic surgery procedures on the face and neck. He is a past president of The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and served on their Board of Directors for over 10 years. He is also a Professor Emeritus in Facial Plastic Surgery from UC Davis Medical Center, and the former Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at that institution.
He is known as the expert’s expert, and is often called to consult and advise other plastic surgeons in both Northern California and Beverly Hills. He has a special interest in eyelid and browlift surgery, facial rejuvenation surgery including facelifts, and rhinoplasty. He also has a particular interest in facial feminization surgery. Have questions? Email Dr.Sykes at: [email protected]
