It’s great to have options, right? When it comes to that extra fat below the chin that you just can’t seem to get rid of with diet and exercise, we offer more than just one option here at Utah Facial Plastics.
Submental liposuction
Submental liposuction is the surgical option for fat removal under the chin. Dr. Thompson and Dr. Henstrom go through an incision just under the chin to suction out the fat in the neck and then two small holes just under each ear to remove the fat along the jawline. This procedure can be done in the office under a local anesthetic or in the operating room under general anesthesia. When done in the office, Valium is offered to help patients relax during the procedure.
Submental liposuction takes approximately 30-45 minutes and is often combined with chin implant or necklift surgery. There are minimal sutures required but 4-5 are typically used under the chin, and then one under each ear to close the incisions. Those all need to be removed 3-4 days after surgery. A head wrap is given to wear for 5 days straight and then just at night for another 7. Bruising and swelling are common and typically resides within 1-2 weeks, depending on the patient. It helps to take Arnica and avoid blood thinners and NSAIDS 5-7 days before and after surgery.
Kybella
Kybella is the non-surgical option that also work very well to remove fat under the chin. It is the first and only injectable that destroys fat cells permanently. Unlike submental liposuction, which is a one-time procedure, Kybella requires a series of treatments, typically 2-4, but patients can do up to 6 sessions. Treatments are quick and only require about 15-20 minutes in-office. Swelling is common and typically resides within 1-2 weeks. Results from each treatment are apparent within 4-6 weeks after treatment. Many patients report numbness, which can also last 4-6 following each injection.
Once the desired results are achieved, patients do not need to undergo any touch-up or repeat treatments. Without any major changes to diet and lifestyle, the results are completely permanent.
Kybella or liposuction
So which option is right for you? With your provider, you can out-weight the pros and cons to determine if Kybella or liposuction makes the most sense. For patients with a lot of fullness, especially along the jawline where Kybella is not injected, submental liposuction is typically best and is more cost-effective.
Patients with mild to moderate fullness and/or those who just want to avoid any kind of surgical procedure are more likely to choose Kybella. Kybella also eliminates the need to wear a headwrap following the procedure. But with either option, there is swelling and sometimes bruising.
Both Options
There is also the option of submental liposuction first, followed by just 1-2 treatments of Kybella to “clean” things up and completely remove all those fat cells. This is less common but an option for those who desire an extra chiseled result.
For more information on Kybella or liposuction for a double-chin, call (801)776-2220 or contact us HERE.