Which procedure would be best for a double chin - Lipo or skin tightening? (photo)

Question

I’m 45 and have had a double chin for most of my adult life - even when not overweight. Wondering if chin lipo and skin tightening would work, or if I would need something more?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Morpheus 8 is a non-invasive skin and soft tissue tightening treatment that is consistently amazing in our patients. We use the Morpheus to exact fractional induced RF into the skin or tissue in order to tighten collagen and stimulate contraction of the tissue. For acne scars, it is quite useful to build collagen in patients who have atrophic scars but is not very productive for ice-pick scars which require TCA Cross. For tissue tightening, Morpheus is ideal for the face and neck and we often combine it with CO2 laser or Ultherapy to further enhance results. Chemical peels and skin resurfacing should be done at least 5 to 7 days after, but can be performed earlier, depending on treatment severity. Avoid exfoliating skin treatments before Morpheus and expect a period of 2-4 weeks for skin contraction to set in.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Marvin F. Shienbaum, MD · Answer

he best procedure for a double chin depends largely on the primary cause of the double chin: is it mainly excess fat, loose skin, or a combination of both?

Here's a breakdown to help you understand which procedure might be more suitable:

Liposuction:

Best for: Individuals with good skin elasticity where the primary concern is excess fat under the chin and neck. Liposuction effectively removes fat cells, leading to a more contoured jawline and neck.   
How it works: A small cannula (thin tube) is inserted through tiny incisions to suction out the excess fat.   
Results: Can be significant and long-lasting, provided a stable weight is maintained.   
Recovery: Typically involves some swelling and bruising for a few days to a week.   
Limitations: Liposuction primarily addresses fat and does not significantly tighten loose skin. If you have significant skin laxity, liposuction alone might leave you with loose, empty-looking skin.   
Skin Tightening Procedures:

Best for: Individuals with mild to moderate loose skin under the chin and neck, often due to aging or weight loss. These procedures stimulate collagen production to tighten the existing skin.   
Types of Skin Tightening Procedures:
Radiofrequency (RF): Uses energy waves to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production.   
Ultrasound (e.g., Ultherapy): Delivers focused ultrasound energy to the deeper layers, promoting collagen synthesis for skin tightening.   
Laser Skin Tightening: Uses targeted laser energy to heat the skin and stimulate collagen remodeling.
Thread Lifts: Involve inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten the tissue.   
Results: Gradual improvement in skin firmness and tightness over weeks to months as collagen is produced. Results vary depending on the technology and individual response.   
Recovery: Generally minimal downtime, with some possible redness or mild swelling.   
Limitations: Skin tightening procedures are most effective for mild to moderate skin laxity. They do not remove significant amounts of fat.   
Combination Approach:

Best for: Many individuals with a double chin have both excess fat and loose skin. In these cases, a combination of liposuction to remove fat and a skin tightening procedure to address laxity often yields the best results. These procedures can be done simultaneously or in stages.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!   One option would be submental liposuction with skin tightening.  We would love to meet and discuss your concerns. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to discuss your goals.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

The best procedure for treating a double chin depends on factors like skin elasticity, fat distribution, and your aesthetic goals. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

Liposuction (Chin Lipo): If your primary concern is excess fat and you have good skin elasticity, liposuction can effectively contour the area. However, if your skin is loose, lipo alone may not be enough, and you might need additional skin-tightening treatments.
Non-Surgical Skin Tightening: Procedures like radiofrequency (RF) treatments (e.g., Morpheus8, Ultherapy) or laser skin tightening can help firm mild to moderate sagging skin. These are good options if skin laxity is your main concern.
Combination Approach: Many patients benefit from combining liposuction with a skin-tightening treatment for optimal results, especially if they have both excess fat and some loose skin.
Surgical Neck Lift: If you have significant skin laxity, a neck lift might be the best option to achieve a more defined and youthful jawline.
A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist can help determine the best treatment based on your skin quality and desired outcome.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If you are looking for a relatively non-invasive approach to improve upon the appearance of your neck and jawline, adding several millimeters of chin projection, with an implant, along with neck liposuction, maybe a reasonable approach. Some physicians would recommend a neck lift procedure, however, since you are only 45 years old, I would probably be less aggressive. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Which procedure would be best for a double chin - Lipo or skin tightening? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Liposuction vs. Skin Tightening: Best Option for a Double Chin?

Answer: Liposuction vs. Skin Tightening: Best Option for a Double Chin?

Answer: You may consider neck liposuction and a chin implant.

Answer: You may consider neck liposuction and a chin implant.

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chin Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Which procedure would be best for a double chin - Lipo or skin tightening? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Liposuction vs. Skin Tightening: Best Option for a Double Chin?

Answer: Liposuction vs. Skin Tightening: Best Option for a Double Chin?

Answer: You may consider neck liposuction and a chin implant.

Answer: You may consider neck liposuction and a chin implant.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chin Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.