What Causes A Double Chin?
A “double chin,” also referred to as submental fat, is a condition in which there is an excess amount of fat under the chin. A “double chin” can be particularly challenging to eliminate with exercise and dieting and can induce feelings of low self-esteem or self-consciousness. It can also make an individual look older or heavier than they are and can worsen the appearance of the jawline. Luckily, Dr. Green uses both CoolSculpting and Kybella to permanently eliminate stubborn submental fat and reduce the appearance of a double chin.
Many different factors can cause a double chin, including weight gain, genetics, and age. Weight gain is often distributed evenly across the body, including under the chin. Poor diets and lack of exercise can lead to the expansion of fat cells, creating the appearance of a double chin. Some individuals are prone genetically to have double chins, as our genes impact where and how fat is stored in the body. Additionally, as we age, collagen and elastin levels in the body decrease, resulting in sagging, crepey skin. Regardless of the cause of your double chin, Dr. Green can use CoolSculpting or Kybella to melt away excess fat in the area. For patients also experiencing skin laxity, Dr. Green will use Thermage to tighten the skin and create a firm, smooth, beautiful jawline.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience treating the world’s most discerning men and women with non-invasive cosmetic procedures and targeted skincare products. She was one of the first dermatologists in NYC to incorporate Kybella and CoolSculpting procedures into her patients’ treatment plans for double chin rejuvenation. Dr. Green is recognized as one of New York’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times due to her expertise and dedication to her patients. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess your anatomy and aesthetic concerns to devise a treatment plan best suited to treat your double chin.
What is the cause of a double chin?
A double chin, also referred to as submental fat or submental fullness, can be caused by a multitude of factors. Weight gain is one of the most common causes of a double chin. The number of fat cells in a body generally stays the same throughout adulthood. However, excessive weight gain and obesity can not only expand existing fat cells but also increase the number of fat cells in some areas. Excessive weight gain due to poor diet and lack of exercise can lead to extra fat deposits under the chin, creating an extra layer of fat and the appearance of a double chin. Genetics also play a large role in the appearance of a double chin, as some individuals are more prone to having extra fat deposited underneath the chin. Some individuals are also prone to having poor skin elasticity underneath the skin due to lower levels of collagen and elastin, proteins essential for maintaining the structure and elasticity of the skin. Collagen and elastin levels also decrease with age – as you get older, the elasticity of the skin decreases, causing a double chin to appear larger or worse. Other factors, such as posture and lifestyle, can also play a role in the development of a double chin. Poor posture can weaken muscles in the chin and neck. Lifestyle choices such as smoking or excessive sun exposure can damage collagen and elastin fibers.
Will my double chin go away?
For some people, a double chin can go away with proper dieting and exercising. Unfortunately, even with dieting and exercising, many patients find that submental fat is stubborn and will not go away. In the past, patients turned to “double chin surgeries”, such as neck lifts or facelifts, to eliminate their double chins. During the surgical procedure, a plastic surgeon creates a small incision and uses liposuction to remove the excess submental fat under the chin. Neck or face lifts are painful, invasive procedures that must be performed in a surgical suite under anesthesia and are associated with a great deal of bruising, swelling, scarring, and at least one week of downtime or recovery time.
Nowadays, many patients turn to non-surgical treatments due to their effectiveness and accessibility. These treatments are associated with little to no downtime or side effects and are an excellent option for double chin treatment. The two most effective fat reduction treatments for a double chin include CoolSculpting and Kybella. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private dermatology office, she will assess your double chin and determine the best treatment option for your specific aesthetic goals. After treatment, Dr. Green may recommend Thermage treatment to tighten the skin for full facial rejuvenation.
CoolSculpting for double chin treatment
CoolSculpting is a non-invasive, FDA-approved cosmetic procedure that involves cryolipolysis, or the freezing of fat cells, to eliminate stubborn fat. As the cooling technology only affects fat cells, the surrounding tissue is left unaffected, making the procedure incredibly safe. CoolSculpting incorporates special applicators to treat areas such as under the chin, the abdomen, back fat, flanks, thighs, bra fat, and upper arms. The CoolMini applicator was uniquely designed to fit and treat the submental fat area. After just one session of CoolSculpting, patients can expect up to a 25% reduction of fat in the area. Immediately following the procedure, patients may experience mild swelling and localized numbness that resolve independently. It generally takes at least three months to see the results from treatment as the body breaks down the frozen fat cells over time. Most patients require two sessions spaced months apart in order to achieve optimal cosmetic results.
Before & After photo: CoolMini Chin area
Kybella for double chin reduction
Kybella is another non-invasive FDA-approved treatment used to eliminate excess fat underneath the chin. Kybella is an injectable treatment that uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance that breaks down dietary fat. When injected underneath the chin, lipolysis occurs, where the fat cells are destroyed and removed by the body’s natural metabolic system. Once destroyed, the fat cells are unable to accumulate any excess fat. As treatment with Kybella is a gradual process, multiple treatment sessions spaced four to six weeks apart are often required for full-fat reduction. Patients typically experience mild initial swelling around the injection site.
Who is a good candidate for non-invasive double chin treatment options?
A good candidate for Kybella or CoolSculpting is an adult who is at or within 20 pounds of their ideal weight and looking to reduce mild to moderate submental fat. Candidates should be in good physical and mental health. Kybella and CoolSculpting are not designed for weight loss, and candidates should have realistic expectations regarding fat reduction results. Kybella and CoolSculpting may not be right for you if you have trouble swallowing or have a history of medical conditions related to the neck. The best way to know if you are a candidate for non-invasive double chin procedures is to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. During your consultation, she will assess your submental area and medical history to determine whether you are a good candidate for Kybella or CoolSculpting. If there is too much excess fat or skin laxity under the chin, Dr. Green will refer you to a trusted plastic surgeon for treatment.
Which is better for double chin treatment, CoolSculpting or Kybella?
Both CoolSculpting and Kybella are excellent treatment options for double chin. CoolSculpting utilizes cryolipolysis, while Kybella utilizes injectable lipolysis for fat reduction. CoolSculpting is typically used to debulk larger areas of fat, while Kybella is best suited to remove small or moderate pockets of excess fat. For individuals with larger areas of fat, Dr. Green may recommend combining treatments, first using CoolSculpting to debulk the fat, followed by Kybella to eliminate any remaining excess fat cells.
Are results with CoolSculpting or Kybella permanent?
Yes. CoolSculpting and Kybella results can be permanent so long as patients maintain a healthy weight after treatment. When excess weight is gained after treatment, the remaining fat cells can expand, or new fat cells can accumulate in the area. The best way to ensure your double chin is permanently eliminated is to maintain health and wellness, including a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise.
What causes loose skin under the chin?
Loose skin underneath the chin is due to a decrease in two skin proteins, collagen and elastin. These proteins provide the skin structure and elasticity. These proteins begin to decline once we reach our 20s, causing skin laxity and crepey, loose skin. In addition to aging, factors such as excess sun exposure and smoking can also damage collagen and elastin fibers, resulting in loose skin. Patients may also experience loose skin under the chin after a significant amount of weight loss, as the skin is not able to shrink fast enough to adjust to the rapid loss of fat.
Combining Thermage with double chin treatments
Skin tightening is also very important in reducing the appearance of the jowls and double chin. Thermage FLX is an excellent skin-tightening procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to heat the inner layer of the dermis. As the dermis is heated, the body’s natural wound-healing process is induced. Thermage FLX produces new collagen in the neck area and tightens the jowls and neck, reducing skin laxity and eliminating the need for any unnecessary surgical procedures. Thermage FLX is best for mild to moderate skin laxity of the jowls and lower jaw. With this skin-tightening technology, a sharper jawline can be created with no pain or downtime whatsoever. Results from treatment are typically seen a few months after treatment, although some patients notice an immediate “glow” following the procedure. As results can last up to one and a half years or more, patients often engage in annual maintenance sessions to keep and enhance the results from treatment. When treating a double chin, Dr. Green will typically perform CoolSculpting or Kybella first to reduce stubborn, submental fat in the area. Afterward, Thermage can be used to tighten and firm the skin, improving the appearance of the double chin and the jawline.
Frequently Asked Questions about Double Chins
Are double chins normal?
Yes, double chins are normal and extremely common. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, roughly 68% of Americans are troubled by the appearance of excess fat underneath the skin. Whether caused by genetics or excessive weight gain, a double chin can be extremely hard to treat with diet or exercise. Most patients turn to non-invasive procedures like CoolSculpting or Kybella due to their ability to permanently eliminate fat cells in the treatment area.
What are the reasons for a double chin?
While there are many different reasons for developing a double chin, the most common are weight gain and genetics. As we gain weight, our fat cells expand. With excessive weight gain and obesity, not only do our fat cells expand, but new fat cells can also accumulate. Additionally, many patients are genetically predisposed to having excess fat accumulate underneath the chin.
Are double chins genetic?
Yes, double chins can be genetic. Many patients experiencing a double chin will find that they also have a family history of a double chin. Our genes decide the number of fat cells in our body, where fat cells are stored, and how fat is deposited across the body. Some individuals are genetically disposed to deposit extra fat underneath the chin. Levels of collagen and elastin are also regulated by our genetics, resulting in some patients having more skin laxity than others. Skin laxity or sagging skin can exacerbate the appearance of a double chin and worsen the appearance of the jawline.
Does the thyroid cause a double chin?
The thyroid can be a factor in the development of a double chin. Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland, can result in weight gain, including underneath the chin. Hypothyroidism can also cause slight swelling, puffiness, and increased fluid retention. Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland, typically leads to weight loss. However, hyperthyroidism can lead to a goiter or thyroid swelling that worsens the appearance of a double chin.
Does mouth breathing cause a double chin?
Mouth breathing does not directly cause a double chin, as it is not associated with creating excess fat or skin laxity. However, mouth breathing can change the appearance of the jawline and chin. It can cause the head and nose to be in a more forward position, creating the appearance of a recessed chin and worsening the appearance of a double chin.
Does overbite cause a double chin?
An overbite can indirectly lead to the appearance of a double chin. When the upper front teeth protrude over the lower front teeth, jaw alignment can be affected, causing the lower jaw to be small. A small lower jaw can weaken muscles and tissue underneath the chin, resulting in a softer jawline and a double chin appearance.
Does looking down cause a double chin?
Looking down extensively for long periods can result in a double chin. Often referred to as a tech neck, patients constantly bend their necks and look down at their phones, leading to an overactive platysmal muscle. The platysmal muscle is a broad, collar-like neck muscle that covers the front and sides of the neck. An overactive platysmal muscle can pull on the jawline, worsening the appearance of a double chin. Constantly looking down can also weaken the muscles and tissues in the chin, increasing skin laxity underneath the chin.
Can alcohol cause a double chin?
Alcohol can, in some ways, contribute to the development of a double chin. Many types of alcohol are high in calories, which can result in weight gain when consumed in excess. Alcohol reduces the production of collagen, leading to increased skin laxity underneath the chin. Additionally, alcohol dehydrates the skin. To compensate, the body increases its water retention, which can create facial and neck swelling and puffiness.
Can TMJ cause a double chin?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition characterized by pain and dysfunction in the jaw muscles and joints. It is often associated with jaw pain and stiffness, clicking or popping of the jaw, and pain that extends to the face, neck, and back. TMJ can be caused by jaw misalignment, commonly due to a retruded lower jaw. The placement of the lower jaw can result in the appearance of a double chin or loose skin under the chin.
What foods cause double chin?
Foods that cause excessive weight gain can cause the development of a double chin. Often, high-processed foods and foods high in sugar can result in weight gain in the submental area. High-sodium foods can also lead to increased water retention and puffiness underneath the chin. To reduce the appearance of a double chin, it is important to maintain a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, leafy greens, healthy fats, and proteins.
Does bad posture cause a double chin?
Yes, bad posture can contribute to a double chin. From sitting slumped over to looking down, bad posture can weaken the muscles and tissues underneath the chin. Over time, bad posture can also cause the skin to become more lax, resulting in loose, crepey skin and worsening the appearance of the jawline and a double chin.
What causes fat under the chin?
It is hard to say what exactly causes fat underneath the chin. Often, a double chin can be caused by excessive weight gain and obesity. Although the number of fat cells in the body stays constant in adulthood, fat cells can expand with increased weight gain. With obesity, the number of fat cells in an area can also increase. An increase in fat cell expansion and accumulation in the submental area can create a double chin. Some individuals have stubborn fat under the chin without excessive weight or obesity. These individuals are likely genetically predisposed to depositing excess fat under the chin, which can be hard to remove even with dieting and exercise.
Why did I get a double chin overnight?
While it may seem like a double chin developed overnight, it is actually a gradual process. It can take years to develop a double chin. Factors such as sleeping position, alcohol consumption, and dehydration can temporarily worsen the appearance of a double chin. However, more gradual factors, such as weight gain, age, and genetics, are typically the culprits of a double chin.
Why is my double chin getting worse?
A double chin can get worse due to various factors. Increased weight gain can further expand fat cells in the submental areas and lead to the creation of new fat cells. The natural aging process can also worsen the appearance of a double chin due to lowered production of collagen and elastin. Poor posture and lifestyle choices such as excessive sun exposure, smoking, and alcohol consumption can also exacerbate a double chin appearance.
Why do I get chin fat?
Chin fat, also referred to as a double chin or submental fullness, can be caused by a multitude of factors, including excess weight gain, genetics, and age. Many patients find that, even after eating a well-balanced diet and regularly exercising, their chin fat does not go away. Submental fat can be very stubborn and hard to get rid of, even after weight loss. Luckily, treatment options like CoolSculpting and Kybella can permanently reduce chin fat and improve the appearance of the chin and jawline, regardless of the cause of the chin fat.
Can double chins go away?
A double chin is characterized by excess, stubborn fat underneath the chin, and its appearance can be worsened by sagging, loose skin. Many patients engage in dieting or exercising but find that their double chins do not go away. While lifestyle changes may not be able to reduce a double chin, CoolSculpting and Kybella can be used to permanently destroy excess fat for a more sculpted jawline. CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis to freeze fat cells, while Kybella uses injectable lipolysis to melt away fat cells. Both treatment options are safe and effective, requiring little to no downtime after treatment. Patients with skin laxity underneath the chin can then use Thermage, a gold standard skin tightening treatment, to increase collagen production and tighten and firm neck skin If you are tired of a double chin and weak jawline and are looking to eliminate stubborn submental fat for good, Dr. Green is here to help.
With over 25 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Michele Green expertly treats her patients with non-invasive treatment options, including CoolSculpting, Kybella, Botox, dermal fillers, and more. Due to her dedication to her patients and expertise, Dr. Green is consistently voted as one of NYC’s top healthcare providers by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. Dr. Green employs a holistic approach to cosmetic dermatology, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to best suit each patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals. When you work with Dr. Green, she will work on a double chin reduction treatment plan to help you look and feel like the best version of yourself. If you are interested in treating your double chin, contact us online or call our NYC office at 212-535-3088.