Submental fullness underneath the chin, often referred to as the “double chin,” is a constant cause of embarrassment and frustration for millions of people. You don’t have to be overweight to have a double chin, as even people with a healthy BMI are still plagued with this characteristic due to genetics. It’s also one of the only areas on the face that is impossible to reach with diet and exercise.
Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Christopher Zochowski has had countless individuals come to his practice wanting to address the lump of accumulated fat underneath their chin. His answer to their request is typically presented in two options: liposuction and CoolSculpting.
Continue reading to learn more about how liposuction or CoolSculpting at Zochowski Plastic Surgery in Columbus, OH, can help you achieve a slim, attractive chin, jaw, and neckline.
What Is A Double Chin?
A double chin is an excess layer of fatty tissue under the lower jaw. The tissue can be caused by genetics, age, or posture. While some people typically control their weight and posture, there isn’t much anyone can do about their age or genetics. A family history of weak skin elasticity or extra fat storage under the chin makes fighting a double chin much more difficult.
What Factors Cause Someone to Develop a Double Chin?
Most often, double chins are associated with weight gain; however, many possible causes exist. That’s why some people can develop a double chin even though they are a healthy weight or in the process of losing excess weight. Recognizing the causes of a double chin is important if you’re interested in losing one.
- Excess Weight: The most common cause of a double chin is the building up of excess fat. When you gain weight, fat cells deposit throughout your body, including your face and jaw. Depending on the shape of your face, it can be particularly easy for weight gain to show on your face.
- Age: Another common cause that often goes overlooked is the natural progression that aging has on the skin. In our 20s, the amount of collagen our skin and body produce declines. As this happens, the skin loses its natural elasticity and begins to sag, creating the same effects as if extra fat has accumulated in that area.
- Posture: We live in a vastly digital age. Everyone is looking down at some sort of device for hours a day. The chin-to-chest posture disrupts the connection of the neck to the chin, called the platysma muscle. When this muscle weakens, it reduces elasticity around the jowls causing the dreaded double chin.
- Genetics: If members of your family also tend to develop a double chin, then the odds are that you’re also predisposed to developing one. Genetic traits like bone structure, disposition toward weight gain, and the elasticity of your skin are all factors towards how likely you will store fat under or around your chin.
What Surgical Methods Can Remove A Double Chin?
Liposuction at Zochowski Plastic Surgery is the most popular surgical option for patients who want to remove a double chin and achieve their desired facial profile. Liposuction is a surgical procedure that targets and removes fat with a suctioning tool. Submental liposuction doesn’t require general anesthesia. Dr. Zochowski will administer a local anesthetic in the treatment area before creating two-minute access points underneath the chin. Using a device called a cannula that Dr. Zochowski will insert into these access points, he’ll begin loosening the excess fat and remove it from the area with suction. With these minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Zochowski can conceal potential scarring while creating beautiful results.
What Non-Surgical Options Can Remove A Double Chin?
CoolSculpting for double chin removal is a non-surgical fat reduction procedure that freezes away subcutaneous fat cells. It can achieve this through an advanced freezing method that kills fat cells under the chin in a highly efficient and targeted way. This approach provides double chin sufferers with a non-invasive solution to sculpt their profile in a slimmer and more flattering way—without surgery or downtime.
Our highly-trained CoolSculpting practitioners use CoolSculpting to freeze sagging pockets of skin and fat at the left, right, and front of a double chin. During your treatment, your practitioner will place the CoolSculpting device on the target area, essentially suctioning your skin. You may initially feel some intense cold before the area goes completely numb while the device does its job. Once your treatment is complete, your body will naturally dispose of the damaged fat cells, revealing your stunning results over a few weeks.
Why Should I Partner with A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon for Double Chin Removal?
Trusting your aesthetic vision with a board-certified plastic surgeon is one of the best decisions you can make. When a doctor is board-certified, it ensures that they are extensively trained in surgery and aesthetics. They have developed technical skills and aesthetic judgments that aid them in creating long-lasting, natural-looking results.
Dr. Christopher K. Zochowski is amongst the most prolific and sought-after board-certified plastic surgeons in Columbus, OH, and the surrounding area. Dr. Zochowski is also passionate about helping his patients feel and look their best through evidence-based plastic surgery. His entire team, himself included, works hard to create a comfortable, thoughtful, and professional environment where patients can relax and feel prepared for their rewarding experience.
Ready to Get Started On Your Double Chin Removal Procedure?
You no longer have to stretch out your neck in photos to hide your double chin. Have it removed for good with liposuction or CoolSculpting at Zochowski Plastic Surgery in Columbus, OH. To learn more about these innovative and effective procedures and find out if they’re right for you, contact us by calling (614) 490-7500 or by completing our online consultation form.
