Can a Double Chin Be Reduced?

What Causes a Double Chin?

A double chin, also known as submental fat, is essentially the accumulation of fatty tissue under the chin. While commonly associated with weight gain, there are several causes, including:

Genetics: Genetics can play a significant role, as some individuals may be predisposed to store fat in certain areas, including under the chin.
Aging: Over time, skin loses elasticity and muscle tone, which can result in sagging and a double chin.
Weight Gain: Excess weight is a leading factor, as fat accumulates in various areas of the body, including the chin and neck.
Poor Posture: Poor posture can weaken the muscles in the neck and chin area, causing the skin to sag and making a double chin appear more prominent.

Natural Remedies and Exercises for Double Chin Reduction

If your double chin is mild or you’re looking for natural ways to improve its appearance, some lifestyle changes and exercises may offer gradual improvement.

Diet and Weight Loss: Adopting a balanced, healthy diet adhering to a calorie deficit and regular exercise regime can help reduce overall body fat, which may also lead to a reduction in submental fat. Foods high in fiber, lean proteins, and low sugar content can better help manage weight effectively.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Double Chin Reduction

For those seeking more immediate and targeted results, non-surgical aesthetic treatments have become increasingly popular. These treatments are ideal for patients who cannot achieve results with weight loss alone but do not wish to explore surgery.

1: Fat-Dissolving Injections (e.g., Aqualyx)

Aqualyx is a specialised fat-dissolving injection containing deoxycholic acid that targets and breaks down fat cells. The treatment works by injecting a solution into the submental area (under the chin), which then dissolves the fat cells and allows the body to eliminate them naturally over the following weeks.

How it Works: Aqualyx contains a unique compound deoxycholic acid that causes fat cells to break down. Once injected, the fat cells are destroyed and gradually flushed out by the body. Most patients require 2-3 sessions for optimal results.
Benefits: It’s minimally invasive, involves little downtime, and is effective for small, localized areas of fat.
Results: You can typically expect visible results within a few weeks after treatment, with continued improvement over time as the body processes the dissolved fat.

2: Lemon Bottle:

It is worth mentioning a recent trend on tiktok and Instagram using the product ‘Lemon Bottle’ for fat dissolving. Despite the claims made by the manufacturer and influencers on social media, there is a complete absence of any evidence lemon bottle can dissolve fat. A recent study conducted by a Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products (Swissmedic) warned against using “Lemon Bottle” lipolysis solution stating “No medicinal effect has been scientifically proven, the quality of the ingredients has not been tested and using the product may therefore pose a health risk”.

We would advise avoiding this product.

2. Cryolipolysis (Fat Freezing)

Cryolipolysis, often known as CoolSculpting, is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that freezes fat cells to destroy them, which the body then gradually eliminates. While primarily used for larger body areas, it can also be effective for the double chin.

How it Works: Controlled cooling is applied to the double chin area, which crystallizes fat cells. The body then metabolizes and removes these dead cells naturally over time.
Benefits: Minimal discomfort, non-invasive, and no downtime required.
Results: Patients typically see results within 1–3 months as the body eliminates fat cells.

3. Endodefine Laser for Lipolysis and Skin Tightening

Endodefine is a cutting-edge laser treatment that stimulates collagen production, tightens the skin, and reduces fat in targeted areas. It’s especially effective for double chin reduction as it not only removes excess fat but also enhances skin firmness.

How it Works: Endodefine uses laser energy to target subcutaneous fat cells, causing them to melt and be naturally eliminated. Additionally, the laser heat stimulates collagen production, which leads to tighter and more resilient skin.
Benefits: Endodefine is a quick and single treatment, non-surgical procedure with some immediate results and minimal downtime.
Results: Patients often see improvements in contouring and skin tightness within a few weeks, with continued benefits as collagen production increases. The full result is notable at 3 months post-treatment.

Surgical Treatments for Double Chin Reduction

For a more dramatic and permanent solution, surgical options may be suitable. These are generally chosen by those seeking significant improvement or for whom non-surgical methods have been ineffective.

1. Liposuction

Liposuction is a well-known cosmetic surgical procedure used to remove excess fat from various areas of the body, including under the chin. This procedure is generally reserved for patients with a more pronounced double chin.

How it Works: A small incision is made under the chin, and a thin tube (cannula) is used to suction out excess fat cells.
Benefits: Liposuction offers immediate and noticeable results and can be tailored to sculpt the jawline and neck area precisely.
Downtime: Recovery time can vary, but generally takes about 1–2 weeks, with some bruising and swelling.

2. Neck Lift

A neck lift is a surgical option that involves tightening the muscles and removing excess skin, which provides a more defined chin and jawline. This is often chosen for patients experiencing significant sagging or loose skin around the neck and jaw.

How it Works: Through an incision near the ears or under the chin, the surgeon removes excess skin and tightens the underlying muscles.
Benefits: Provides dramatic, long-lasting results for those struggling with significant sagging skin and fat.
Downtime: Recovery can take up to two weeks, with visible results appearing as swelling subsides.

Choosing the Right Option for You

Whether your goal is to try natural solutions or explore advanced aesthetic treatments, understanding the range of options available can help you make an informed choice.

If you want to read more, the experts at Consulting Room really know what they're talking about and have put together lipolysis, skin tightening, weight loss, Aqualyx, Cryolipolysis, and CoolSculpting FAQs just for you.

If you have more questions, you can use the lipolysis, skin tightening, weight loss, Aqualyx, Cryolipolysis, and CoolSculpting questions feature to talk to our panel of trained medical experts.

If you're keen to get started with any of these treatments right away then you're in luck - those clever folks also have a list of trusted, accredited lipolysis, skin tightening, weight loss, Aqualyx, Cryolipolysis and CoolSculpting clinics in your area.

Many thanks to the author of this blog, Dr Raj Dhillon.

The Revital Lab is a doctor-led clinic based in Esher, Surrey, specialising in medical aesthetics and wellness treatments. It offers a bespoke holistic approach to optimise both skincare and longevity.

The clinic fully appreciates that most individuals contemplate aesthetic treatments for a significant period before engaging with a clinic. For this reason, it believes that each patient deserves a personalised approach to understand their story and expectations.

Call Revital Lab on 0137 261 3080 or visit the Revital Lab website.