A double chin occurs when excess fat deposits cause the chin line to be less defined or create the appearance of having two chins, which is why it’s often referred to as a double chin. According to Dr. Le of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, a Division of U.S. Dermatology Partners, “Double chin can leave you feeling less confident, and many people worry about hiding their double chin in photos or skipping pictures altogether. If this sounds like you, a plastic surgery consultation can help you understand your treatment options and explore solutions to reduce the appearance of a double chin, including liposuction or a neck lift surgery.” In this blog, Dr. MyChi Le explores the benefits of double chin surgery and what to expect from this procedure.

Understanding Double Chin and Its Causes

A double chin occurs when a layer of fatty tissue or excess skin accumulates beneath the chin, removing the definition between the chin, jaw, and neck, creating a larger-looking neck. There are numerous double chin causes, including:

• Weight—For some people, rapid weight gain creates the appearance of a double chin. Others don’t notice it until after losing weight, which reveals a stubborn fat deposit below the chin or loose skin that can give the appearance of a double chin.
• Age—As collagen and elastin production slows with age, skin laxity can create the appearance of a double chin.
• Genetics – some people have rounder faces or are more likely to store fat beneath the jaw.
• Posture: Looking at our phones and computers can weaken neck muscles, leading to a double chin.

Overview of Neck Lift Surgery

A neck lift is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat beneath the skin and tightens lax skin and muscles to create a smooth, defined jawline. There are two main types of neck lifts: cervicoplasty, which removes excess tissue, and platysmaplasty, which tightens muscles. Benefits of neck lift surgery include:

• Improved appearance – less sagging, fewer wrinkles, and a more contoured jaw.
• Minimal scarring – surgical marks are often hidden beneath the chin, making them less noticeable.
• Shorter recovery—Many advanced cosmetic surgery procedures take several weeks or a month to begin healing. While it can take six to eight weeks to fully recover from a neck lift surgery, most people can return to their routine within five days to a week.
• Tightened neck muscles—Lifting the neck tightens loose neck muscles, creating a healthier, stronger-looking appearance.

Surgical Options for Double Chin Removal

While neck lift surgery is often the most beneficial solution for improving the appearance of a double chin, no treatment is suitable for everyone. According to Dr. Le, “Neck lift surgery is a common recommendation for those who want to improve the appearance of a double chin, but it’s by no means the only option. Treatments like liposuction to remove excess fat may be a better option for some. This is a significantly less invasive procedure that can improve the appearance of a double chin. For others, a facelift can improve the appearance of a double chin by lifting and tightening excess, sagging skin on the lower face that naturally transitions to the neck.”

What to Expect from Neck Lift Surgery

Neck lift surgery is an effective surgical solution, including removing excess fat and skin, tightening laxity, and smoothing muscle bands. If you and your plastic surgeon determine that a neck lift is the right treatment option, the surgeon will walk through how to prepare for your procedure. They will also review your medications to ensure you don’t take any medicines or supplements that can interfere with your procedure or recovery. This includes weight loss and herbal medications so be sure to disclose these as well.  Additionally, you will likely need a physical examination and bloodwork to ensure you are in good health for the surgery. Finally, they may ask you to make lifestyle adjustments, including not smoking.

On the day of the procedure, you will be under anesthesia, so you should plan to have a loved one drive you to and from your appointment. Once you are relaxed and the treatment area is numb, the surgeon will clean and sanitize the treatment area. They will mark the incision locations with a pen. Then, they will begin making incisions. Typically, the cuts will be placed around the ears and hairline to disguise the incisions and hide scarring. Your plastic surgeon may determine that you are a good candidate for a shorter scar using a direct submental incision only. Once the incisions are made, fat deposits are removed or repositioned, muscles are tightened, and excess skin is removed. The incisions are closed, and bandages are placed.

Your surgeon will provide a personalized post-procedure treatment plan to meet your needs, but some basics to keep in mind during healing include:

• Keeping the area clean, including changing bandages and caring for any fluid drains.
• If your surgeon recommends a compression / neck garment, please be sure to wear this as much as possible.
• Keep your head elevated even during sleep. Pooling blood can cause swelling and make healing take longer.
• Stay sun-safe. Avoid sun exposure whenever possible, but use sunscreen to protect your skin when you go outside.
• Take care when moving your neck. Don’t tug or pull clothes on or off over your head.
• Review your medications with your surgeon to ensure you’re not taking any medicines that could interfere with healing.

While neck lift is a relatively safe procedure when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, some risks are associated. If you notice any concerns as you heal, you should contact your surgeon immediately. Some potential side effects related to neck lift surgery include:

• Blood clots.
• Excessive bleeding.
• Facial asymmetry.
• Adverse response to anesthesia.
• Fluid or blood trapped beneath skin that needs to be drained.
• Infection.
• Injury to nerves or muscles.
• Pain or swelling that lasts a long time or gets worse with time.
• Scarring.
• Skin discoloration.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Finding a qualified plastic surgeon is always important. Ensure you receive neck lift surgery from a board-certified plastic surgeon with the training and experience necessary to perform this procedure. Some questions to ask before choosing a cosmetic surgeon include:

• Are you board-certified?
• How often do you perform neck lift surgeries?
• How many neck lifts have you performed?
• What are the risks and complications of neck lift treatment?
• What should I expect during recovery after treatment?
• Is neck lift the best option for my goals?

Achieving Your Desired Appearance

When it comes to achieving your desired results with a neck lift, Dr. Le says, “Lifting, smoothing, and firming loose or sagging skin around the chin, jaw, and neck is a common goal, and neck lift is one of the most popular procedures to correct double chin. However, it’s not the right solution for everyone. During a professional plastic surgery consultation, your surgeon can answer questions, discuss your goals, perform an examination, and review your treatment options. Our goal is always to ensure you make the most informed decision and receive the best treatment to meet your needs and achieve your goals.”

Schedule a Cosmetic Surgery Consultation

At our Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery division, our knowledgeable plastic surgeons are dedicated to delivering exceptional surgical solutions that deliver the desired results, so our patients look their best and feel more confident. Whether you’re interested in neck lift surgery or any other cosmetic surgery procedure, don’t hesitate to contact our team to schedule a consultation. Getting started is quick and easy. Just take a few moments to complete our scheduling request form. A local plastic surgery team member will contact you to schedule an appointment.