Non-Surgical Double Chin Removal

A double chin occurs when pockets of excess fat accumulate under the chin, creating the appearance of submental fullness and an uncontoured jawline. The appearance of a double chin can be caused by various factors, including weight gain, genetics, increased skin laxity due to decreased collagen production over time, and a buildup of neck fat. According to the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, as many as two-thirds of patients feel self-conscious about the appearance of a double chin or submental fat, prompting many to seek treatment. Despite a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight loss, stubborn fat may remain under the chin. While plastic surgery options are available, any invasive surgical procedure requires significant downtime and carries a higher risk of severe side effects. Fortunately, many non-surgical options for reducing the appearance of a double chin are available in the office of expert board-certified NYC dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

Kybella and CoolSculpting are two popular, effective non-surgical procedures for reducing a double chin. Kybella uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid to dissolve unwanted fat cells, while CoolSculpting uses fat-freezing technology to destroy fat cells in the treatment areas. Dr. Green may also recommend Thermage skin-tightening treatment to complement Kybella and CoolSculpting and create a tighter, more sculpted jawline. These non-surgical treatments eliminate the appearance of a double chin without requiring anesthesia, increasing the risk of side effects, or significant downtime. To determine whether non-surgical chin fat removal is the right option, schedule your appointment with Dr. Michele Green.

Experienced board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has been expertly treating patients at her Upper East Side dermatology office for more than 25 years. Dr. Green specializes in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, including Kybella injections, CoolSculpting, dermal fillers, Botox, and more. Dr. Green ensures that all patients receive quality care and full-body rejuvenation, and she has been consistently voted one of the best doctors in New York City by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, The New York Times, and New York Magazine. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will help you create an individualized treatment plan for double chin removal that leaves you looking and feeling your best.

What is a double chin?

Submental fullness, or a double chin, occurs when fat accumulates under the chin. A double chin can result from excessive weight gain, aging, or genetics. Although the number of fat cells typically remains constant in adulthood, these cells can expand with weight gain, and in cases of obesity, increase in number. Aging plays a significant role in the appearance of a double chin, as decreased collagen and elastin production can cause the skin to sag under the chin and around the jawline. Additionally, some individuals are genetically predisposed to storing fat in the chin area. Despite dieting and exercising, many people find that the stubborn fat under the chin is lifelong and does not go away.

What is non-surgical double chin removal?

Non-surgical double chin removal utilizes procedures that involve zero incisions, anesthesia, or long recovery times. Two non-surgical procedures for double chin removal include Kybella and CoolSculpting. Kybella is an injectable procedure that uses the active ingredient deoxycholic acid to destroy the membrane of fat cells, causing them to be metabolized by the body. Kybella is an excellent option for patients with mild fat deposits underneath the chin. Multiple treatments spaced four to six weeks apart are needed for optimal results. CoolSculpting works via cryolipolysis, which freezes fat cells, causing them to burst. CoolSculpting is best suited for patients with moderate-to-severe submental fat deposits. Patients may require 1 or 2 treatments spaced 1 month apart for the best results. Both Kybella and CoolSculpting provide permanent results, provided patients do not gain excessive weight after treatment.

What is surgical double chin removal?

Plastic surgeons use a variety of invasive procedures to remove a double chin, including liposuction, facelift, and neck lift. Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat from beneath the skin by inserting a tube through a small incision to “suck out” the fat. A facelift is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and loose skin from the chin and neck. A neck lift is similar to a facelift but is performed specifically to remove excess skin or to tighten neck muscles, improving neck and chin contours. Facelift and neck lift can be performed simultaneously, and plastic surgeons often incorporate liposuction into a facelift or neck lift procedure for optimal results.

Is non-surgical double chin removal better than surgical double chin removal?

Both non-surgical and surgical double chin removal procedures are highly effective at removing stubborn fat under the chin. However, surgical procedures can be costly and are associated with extensive downtime, general anesthesia, and adverse side effects. Many patients prefer non-surgical options like Kybella or CoolSculpting because they eliminate fat cells with minimal downtime. These non-surgical procedures are permanent, provided patients do not gain excess weight after treatment. Patients with skin laxity under the chin can also use Thermage, a non-surgical radiofrequency skin-tightening treatment, to firm the skin and create a more contoured jawline. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess your medical history, facial anatomy, and aesthetic goals to create a non-surgical double chin treatment plan that leaves you looking and feeling your best.

What is Kybella Treatment?

Kybella is the first and only FDA-approved injectable drug to reduce the appearance of moderate-to-severe fat under the chin. The active ingredient in Kybella is a synthetic version of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps absorb and break down dietary fat. The procedure takes only a few minutes, with tiny Kybella injections delivered into the designated treatment area. Kybella injections can quickly, safely, and effectively melt excess fat in the double chin in as few as 3 treatment sessions, each spaced 1 month apart. Each treatment takes 4 to 6 weeks to show the full cosmetic results. After several treatment sessions, the submental fat is permanently gone, creating a smooth, more youthful neck and jawline.

How does Kybella work?

The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid, a substance that helps the body absorb and break down dietary fat. When the synthetic form of deoxycholic acid in Kybella is injected into the treatment area, it dissolves the membranes of fat cells in that area. Once the membranes dissolve, the body can metabolize the cells and flush them out, permanently removing them. After each treatment session, Kybella can eliminate up to 25% of excess fat in the treatment area. Patients are provided a topical numbing cream to be applied to the skin one hour before treatment to maximize patient comfort. Patients often require three or more treatment sessions, each spaced four to six weeks apart, to achieve optimal cosmetic results. Kybella injections produce permanent fat reduction, provided that excessive weight gain does not occur after treatment.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved treatment for eliminating fat deposits in areas such as the submental area, abdomen, flanks, underarms, thighs, and buttocks. CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis, or fat-freezing technology, which relies on the higher freezing temperature of fat cells to eliminate them while leaving surrounding cells unharmed. Through a CoolSculpting applicator, patients can eliminate fat cells in targeted areas of unwanted fat without downtime or invasive procedures. Additionally, the results of CoolSculpting are permanent, as the fat cells are frozen and removed through the body’s natural metabolic processes. Dr. Green often turns to the CoolMini to eliminate the appearance of a double chin—an excellent CoolSculpting applicator that targets excess fat beneath the jawline.

How does CoolSculpting work?

CoolSculpting uses patented cooling technology to deliver targeted, controlled cooling that freezes and destroys fat cells. During the procedure, a CoolSculpting applicator is placed and secured on the targeted area to deliver cryolipolysis. Fat cells freeze at higher temperatures than the surrounding tissue, allowing the device to target them while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. Once frozen, the cells are naturally eliminated from the body over time. No downtime is required after treatment, and the full results of CoolSculpting are visible four months after the procedure. Depending on the severity of fat in the area, patients may need two CoolSculpting treatments spaced at least 1 month apart for optimal results. CoolSculpting results are also permanent, provided patients maintain their weight after treatment.

Is Kybella or CoolSculpting better for a double chin?

Both Kybella and CoolSculpting effectively eliminate unwanted fat cells and deliver long-lasting results. The ideal choice for your double chin depends on the amount of fat in the area. Typically, Kybella is best for small or mild pockets of submental fat, while CoolSculpting is best for moderate-to-large pockets. For significant fat in the submental area, Dr. Green might combine both treatments in a personalized plan, starting with CoolSculpting to reduce fat, then using Kybella injections to target any remaining cells. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your anatomy and skin concerns to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for Kybella or CoolSculpting and to develop a personalized treatment plan for your overall rejuvenation.

How can I tighten the skin after double chin reduction with Thermage?

Thermage is an excellent treatment option for tightening skin and improving jawline laxity after double chin reduction. It is a non-invasive skin-tightening laser that uses radiofrequency to heat the skin’s deeper layers, stimulating the body’s natural healing response and collagen production. There is no downtime with Thermage, and patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment. Results typically begin to appear after three months, with optimal results visible after six months. Thermage results can last for a year and a half, and patients undergo annual maintenance sessions to maintain the skin-tightening benefits. Thermage pairs well with Kybella or CoolSculpting to create a more sculpted, defined jawline.

Is non-surgical chin fat reduction safe?

Absolutely! Non-surgical chin fat reduction treatments like Kybella and CoolSculpting are incredibly safe, especially when performed by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. Both are FDA-approved for fat reduction under the chin, meaning they have undergone clinical trials that prove their safety and efficacy. The risk of serious side effects from these procedures is extremely low when you seek treatment from an experienced provider like Dr. Green. Less-experienced injectors, such as those found at a MedSpa, may be more likely to perform the injections incorrectly, placing Kybella too close to the mandibular nerve, which can lead to nerve injury, facial muscle weakness, and an uneven smile. Unapproved, off-brand fat-dissolving treatments can also be purchased online and are potentially dangerous to patients. Non-FDA-approved treatments have been linked to serious adverse events, such as infection, scarring, deep cysts, skin deformities, and pain. Therefore, seeking a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who uses safe, effective products and injection practices is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Double Chin Fat Removal

How do I get rid of the bulge under my chin?

Several treatment options are available for removing chin fat. Surgical options, including liposuction, neck lifts, and facelifts, can provide dramatic results in a single treatment session. However, the recovery time is long, and the risk of developing serious side effects from the surgery (including pain, bleeding, infection, and scarring) is higher than in non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Patients who do not wish to undergo surgery can use non-surgical fat removal options, such as Kybella injections to dissolve fat, CoolSculpting fat-freezing treatment, or Thermage RF treatment for skin tightening.

How do you get rid of a double chin without surgery?

Many patients prefer non-surgical double chin treatments to plastic surgery because they can eliminate stubborn pockets under the chin with minimal downtime and side effects. Two effective non-surgical options for double chin removal are Kybella and CoolSculpting. Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment for dissolving stubborn pockets of fat under the chin. CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis technology to freeze fat cells, causing them to rupture and be metabolized by the body. Dr. Green may recommend Kybella, CoolSculpting, or a combination of both treatments to eliminate your double chin. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess your medical history and facial anatomy to determine the best treatment plan for your double chin removal.

What is the ideal age for chin lipo?

There is no “ideal age” for chin liposuction; patients of any age can be good candidates, provided they are in good physical and mental health. Chin liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat through a small skin incision. Often, patients aged 20 to 50 are ideal candidates for chin liposuction, as they typically have excess skin in the chin area. Patients with extra or sagging skin under the chin may benefit from a neck lift, a surgical procedure that removes excess skin to tighten and firm the neck and jawline. Liposuction is often used on the jawline to create a more contoured, youthful appearance.

What is the most effective non-invasive double chin removal method?

No treatment is inherently better than another, as both Kybella and CoolSculpting are effective for fat reduction. However, one may be better suited to treating your double chin than the other, depending on the size and scope of the treatment area, the amount of skin laxity, and each patient’s aesthetic goals. For mild unwanted chin fat, Dr. Green may use only Kybella injections to dissolve fat cells. For moderate to severe submental fullness, Dr. Green may use CoolSculpting or a combination of CoolSculpting and Kybella, an injectable fat-dissolving treatment. If patients experience significant skin laxity or loose skin, Dr. Green will pair fat-reduction treatments with a skin-tightening treatment, such as Thermage RF. To determine which non-surgical treatment or combination of treatments will be best for you, please schedule an initial consultation with expert dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in her private NYC dermatology office.

How much would it cost to remove my double chin?

The cost of double chin removal procedures varies based on several factors, including the amount of fat, the size of the treated area, geographic location, aesthetic goals, and the provider’s experience and expertise. Patients typically require multiple Kybella injection sessions to achieve the best results, and those with more moderate fat pockets will need more sessions than those with mild pockets. Patients undergoing CoolSculpting may need one or two treatment sessions for optimal results. Because both CoolSculpting and Kybella offer permanent results, patients often feel these treatments are worth the cost. Additionally, CoolSculpting and Kybella are much more affordable than invasive surgical procedures, which can be very costly depending on the plastic surgeon and the specific procedures performed.

While treatment at a MedSpa may be more cost-effective, it is always recommended that you seek treatment with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, to reduce the risk of unwanted side effects. After a thorough assessment and consultation in her Upper East Side dermatology office, Dr. Green will devise a double chin treatment plan to achieve your physical and aesthetic goals. At this time, the cost of treatment will be discussed.

Does insurance cover double chin removal?

No, insurance does not cover double chin removal because it is considered a cosmetic procedure.

Will chewing gum get rid of a double chin?

No, chewing gum will not get rid of a double chin. Chewing gum primarily strengthens the masseter muscles along the sides of your jaw. These muscles do not contribute to the appearance of a double chin, and strengthening them will not cause weight loss under the chin. Additionally, chewing gum can cause hypertrophy, or enlargement, of the masseter muscles, making the face appear wider and more square.

What burns the most face fat?

There is no specific exercise that targets facial fat, as spot reduction isn’t possible. If submental fat results from weight gain, regular exercise can help lower overall body fat and reduce excess fat under the chin. Adopting healthy dietary habits, such as cutting back on processed foods and increasing intake of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can also help reduce total body fat. Nonetheless, even with a healthy diet and regular exercise, many individuals find that their stubborn double chin persists. Some opt for facial exercises to improve the appearance of their chins and jawlines. Since submental fat is difficult to eliminate on its own, non-surgical treatments like Kybella and CoolSculpting have become effective solutions. These procedures allow patients to permanently reduce their double chin, achieving a more youthful, radiant jawline and neck.

How can I slim my chin in two weeks?

Unfortunately, there is no way to slim the chin in two weeks. A double chin develops gradually due to factors like weight gain, genetics, and aging. Many patients notice that although lifestyle changes can reduce overall body fat, their double chin often remains. Surgical options such as chin liposuction offer quick results, but these results are usually not immediately visible because of swelling and bruising that can last weeks or months. The procedure involves significant recovery time, incisions, anesthesia, and potential side effects. Many prefer non-surgical alternatives like Kybella and CoolSculpting to eliminate excess chin fat permanently. While these treatments don’t produce instant results, a single session can lead to a 20-25% reduction in chin fat. Dr. Green was among the first NYC dermatologists to use innovative CoolSculpting and Kybella treatments for fat reduction. During your consultation, she will recommend the best approach based on your facial structure, medical history, and the severity of submental fat to help you achieve lasting double chin elimination.

What actually works for a double chin?

Kybella and CoolSculpting are both permanent, effective solutions for eliminating chin fat and contouring the jawline. These procedures are FDA-approved for treating submental fat, meaning they have undergone rigorous clinical trials demonstrating their safety and effectiveness. Kybella contains synthetic deoxycholic acid to dissolve fat cells, while CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis to freeze fat cells under the chin. After either treatment, the body metabolizes the destroyed fat cells and excretes them. Non-surgical chin fat removal is permanent, provided the patient does not gain significant weight after the procedure. When combined with Thermage skin tightening, patients can achieve a more youthful, radiant jawline and neck. When you work with Dr. Green, she will develop a double chin reduction treatment plan to help you look and feel like the best version of yourself.

How do I get started with non-surgical double chin removal today?

Submental fullness, commonly called a ‘double chin,” refers to persistent fat deposits in the chin area that can cause self-consciousness. The American Society for Dermatological Surgery (ASDS) reports that 67% of patients are uncomfortable with fat buildup under the chin. Despite maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, patients are often frustrated to find that their chin fat does not go away. Fortunately, safe, effective non-surgical options exist to reduce stubborn fat under the chin, with minimal to no downtime or side effects. Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable medication made of deoxycholic acid that destroys fat cells under the chin. CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat. Both methods provide permanent, long-lasting results. After fat removal, Dr. Green can perform Thermage FLX to tighten the skin and restore a youthful look to the submental area. If you’re unhappy with your double chin and want a permanent solution, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green today.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience delivering the best non-invasive treatment options to her patients. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, creating customized skincare routines and treatment plans that address her patients’ unique concerns and aesthetic goals. She is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. To learn more about non-surgical double chin removal with Dr. Green, please call us at 212-535-3088 or email our New York City-based office to schedule a consultation today.