Double chin removal, also known as neck liposuction or submental liposuction is a technique designed to remove unwanted fat from below the chin. It is a minimally invasive procedure using tiny incisions placed in inconspicuous locations to re-contour the lower face.
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Diagnosis
Submental liposuction is best suited to patients with good skin tone and elasticity who have fatty deposits in the cheeks (jowls) chin and/or neck. This allows the skin to rebound nicely once the underlying fat is removed for optimal sculpting results. Results can also be influenced by physical condition, some health issues and lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, smoking and alcohol use, among other factors. Submental liposuction, as with any form of liposuction, should not be considered a treatment for obesity.
Treatment
Submental Liposuction is an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia only, or with IV sedation. To access the subcutaneous fat to be removed, the surgeon will make one to three tiny incisions in the face or neck. A fine tube (cannula), specially designed for facial liposuction, will be inserted into each incision. Attached to a suction machine, the cannula will be manipulated beneath the skin to suction away excess fat, sculpting the treatment area, a process that may take an hour or longer. Patients usually experience some pain after surgery and will require oral pain medication and most, patients are able to switch to mild, over-the-counter medications within 24 to 28 hours. Some patients may experience burning, tingling or numbness at incision sites, symptoms that are nearly always temporary. Most patients are able to return to normal activities a week after surgery, and scars, in most cases, are not obvious after healing is complete, becoming pale, soft and flat over time.
Being prepared will help you get the most out of your appointment. Please bring a list of medications you're currently taking and any pertinent test results—such as labs or imaging—to your appointment. Additionally, let your provider know of any drug allergies or medical conditions you have or for which you are being treated and if you've had any prior surgical procedures.