Having a double chin, while not typically indicative of a health problem, can negatively affect one’s self-image and mental health. Luckily, there are various treatments available to correct a double chin.

How does a double chin occur in the first place?

A double chin is simply a layer of fat formed beneath the chin. It can form the appearance of an extra chin or multiple if the layer becomes large enough. The most common cause of a double chin is weight gain; however, genetics or aging can also play a role in its formation.

Neck lift Sierra Vista

*Individual Results May Vary

Is surgery the only option to repair a double chin?

For many, a double chin can be treated through weight loss and lifestyle changes. A healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce fat and minimize the appearance of a double chin.

However, sometimes this is not enough, and clinical intervention may be necessary. The treatments for correcting a double chin are not one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to choose which is right for your specific circumstances.

Nonsurgical option

Kybella injections

Kybella is a nonsurgical treatment that uses deoxycholic acid injections to target and destroy fat cells beneath the chin. It is FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) approved and is a reliable alternative to surgical treatments.

A Kybella treatment costs between $800-2400 and only takes a few minutes to complete. About three treatments are required before results become apparent. Topical anesthesia is applied prior to treatment, and pain, bruising, and swelling are expected following the procedure.

The best candidate is someone who has mild to moderate fat beneath the chin, but no loose skin. This is because Kybella only targets fat cells and does not correct age-related sagging.

Kybella Sierra Vista

*Individual Results May Vary

Surgical options

Nonsurgical treatments can only do so much. For a permanent and dramatic reversal of a double chin and/or sagging skin, a surgical approach may be necessary. A cosmetic surgeon may do a chin liposuction, a neck lift, or both.

Chin liposuction

This procedure removes excess fat from under the chin. Board-certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Jamie Moenster will insert small tubes or cannula into different sections under the skin. She will then gently suction fat from each section. The result of this process is reduced fat beneath the chin, creating a more balanced and smoother appearance.

A chin liposuction is a more reliable and dramatic option than Kybella injections. In fact, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery states that a chin liposuction has permanent effects if the person remains a consistent weight after treatment.

Kybella vs Neck Lift Consultations Available

Neck lift

A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is typically done as part of a full facelift or as a separate procedure. Dr. Moenster typically makes incisions in front of and behind the ear to remove excess skin and fat around the jawline and tighten neck muscles. The result is a defined jawline and tightened skin, creating a dramatically more youthful appearance. This is a better choice if you have loose skin or banding in the neck in addition to excess fat.

The results can vary depending on the person’s skin condition before treatment. Further, the healing process takes longer than other double chin treatments. Bruising and swelling can last for months and incisions can take six months to fully heal.

“Dr. Moenster is an excellent doctor. She’s very professional and polite! The support staff at the clinic is also great! I’m so happy that this is the doctor I chose!”

Next Steps

The best treatment option for a double chin correction depends on your skin’s condition and specific needs. If you have a substantial level of fat under your chin, but do not have age-related sagging, Kybella treatment may be best for you. However, if you have looser skin or want a more reliable solution done at once, a surgical approach might be the better option in the long run.

If you are ready to learn more about neck rejuvenation, it is time to take the next step and schedule a consultation. Dr. Jamie Moenster at Dermatology & Plastic Surgery of Arizona would love to meet with you and help you begin your journey. Fill out the form on this page or call our Tucson location at 520-207-3100 or our Sierra Vista location at 520-458-1787. We look forward to meeting you soon.