Addressing the Double Chin: Kybella or Liposuction?

Wednesday, 15 April 2020 14:43

Keystone Cosmetic Surgery Center

0 Comments

It is a well-known fact that good food choices coupled with exercise can do a lot for overall health. It is also common knowledge that, despite our best efforts, the degree of body contouring we wish to achieve may elude us. Some areas of the body are incredibly resistant to dropping fat cells. The submental area under the chin is one of them. The fat that accumulates here is often referred to as a double chin. Thanks to our digital lifestyle, it may also be referred to as “tech neck,” a problem caused by frequently looking down to view smartphones and other small electronic devices.

While modern technology has added to our cosmetic woes, it has also provided a way out. Double chin fat can be resistant to healthy lifestyle habits but it is no match for professional fat-reduction treatments. Two options include Kybella and Liposuction. Here, we discuss how each works so you can determine which might be better suited to your needs.

Kybella, The Injectable Double Chin Treatment

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable drug that was years in the making. Before its use here in the U.S., the ingredient in Kybella, deoxycholic acid, had been widely used in Europe and other countries. Deoxycholic acid is an integral part of the digestive process, helping the body break down dietary fat. In the form of Kybella, this acid is inserted directly into an area where subcutaneous fat cells have expanded. The acid is absorbed by many of the fat cells in the submental area, leading to their destruction and elimination.

Details to know: There is no downtime associated with Kybella. However, patients should expect 4 to 5 days of significant swelling after treatment. Multiple sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal fat reduction. Once the fat is gone, it will not come back.

Liposuction for Double Chin Elimination

Neck liposuction is a minor surgical procedure that can be performed in the submental area to permanently eliminate fat. When conducted independently, this procedure may not require general anesthesia. A local anesthetic and mild sedative can sufficiently maintain comfort. The liposuction procedure involves small incisions and the insertion of a hollow tube that suctions out unwanted fat cells. The incisions are placed as discreetly as possible to hide post-surgical scars.

Details to know: Two to three days of downtime may be needed to allow bruising and swelling to fully resolve after neck liposuction. A dressing or compression strap may also need to be worn for those few days. The results of one liposuction procedure can last indefinitely.

Are you ready for a more sculpted chin? Contact our Hazleton or Pottsville office to schedule a consultation to learn more about Kybella and liposuction.