Options to fix double chin only when smiling? (Photos)

Hi, I’m Lauren, the aesthetic injector here at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center. Kybella is an excellent non-surgical option for reducing small to moderate amounts of submental fat. For optimal results, multiple treatment sessions may be necessary. I recommend consulting with a licensed provider to assess your goals and provide a personalized treatment plan.

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. The line you're experiencing that resembles a double chin when you smile is likely due to the dynamic movement of your facial muscles and the natural folding of the skin in that area during expression. While you might like your appearance at rest, this dynamic line can be addressed with a few different approaches, depending on its exact cause and your preferences. One option is a small amount of Botox injected strategically in the muscles of your lower face and upper neck that contribute to this folding when you smile. By carefully relaxing these muscles, the line may become less prominent during animation without significantly affecting your resting appearance. This approach is temporary, typically lasting 3-4 months. Another option to consider is dermal fillers. If the line is partly due to a slight loss of volume or a natural crease in that area, a small amount of filler can be placed to subtly smooth it out. This can provide a longer-lasting improvement compared to Botox, typically lasting anywhere from 6 months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used. I hope this helps and best of luck!

Hello Ruquig,
You have a lovely face and smile. Smiling is the absolute best form of "plastic surgery" so keep on smiling. I would not recommend any treatment to remove fat under your chin. Hold your head up when smiling and that should help in photos, otherwise don't worry, be happy!
Michael Persky, MD
Encino, CA

If you're experiencing a double chin appearance only when smiling, there are several options you can consider to address this concern:

Consultation with a Specialist: Start by consulting with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon who can assess your specific situation. They can offer tailored advice and treatment options based on a thorough examination.

Non-Surgical Treatments:

Kybella: This injectable treatment dissolves fat cells and can be used to target and reduce submental fullness (double chin). It might help in cases where fat is contributing to the appearance.
Ultherapy or Radiofrequency Treatments: These non-invasive procedures use ultrasound or radiofrequency energy to tighten and lift the skin, which might reduce the appearance of a double chin when smiling.
Botox: If muscle activity is contributing to the appearance, Botox injections can sometimes help by relaxing specific muscles, potentially smoothing out the area.

Surgical Options:

Liposuction: For more permanent results, liposuction can remove excess fat under the chin.
Neck Lift: In some cases, a surgical lift might be recommended to address both skin and underlying muscle issues.
Lifestyle and Home Care:

Facial Exercises: Regular exercises targeting the neck and jawline might help tone the area over time.
Skincare: Using firming creams and maintaining good skincare habits can also support skin elasticity.
Time and Acceptance: Sometimes, subtle anatomical features are more noticeable to the individual than to others. Embracing these features as part of your unique expression might also be a consideration.

Each option has its benefits and considerations, so a professional consultation is essential to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.