Chin and neck liposuction

Liposuction to the chin and neck reduces excess fat in the submental area and can help redefine the jawline. Me Clinic's plastic surgeons have been performing liposuction for decades.

Changes in the chin and neck area are normal and occur for several reasons — ageing, weight fluctuation and genetics among them.

What the procedure involves

Liposuction is a surgical procedure performed under local or general anaesthesia, using a thin tube called a cannula attached to a suction device. Fat cells are extracted from the treated area through small incisions placed discreetly.

Removing fat from the neck may also promote some collagen regrowth, which can help the skin adhere more closely to the underlying muscle and reduce the appearance of sagging. Results vary between individuals.

Chin and neck liposuction is generally a smaller procedure than body liposuction, and is one of the areas where local anaesthesia may be appropriate.

What it can and cannot address

Liposuction addresses fat. It does not tighten significantly loose or sagging skin.

Where there is substantial excess skin around the chin and neckline, a facelift or neck lift may be needed instead of, or in addition to, liposuction. Your surgeon will assess which applies in your case — this is one of the more common reasons a patient is advised that liposuction alone will not achieve what they are seeking.

Liposuction is not a weight-loss technique. It is a contouring procedure, and results are best supported by a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.

Suitability

A consultation with a surgeon establishes whether you are a suitable candidate. Factors considered include the amount and location of fat, the quality and elasticity of your skin, your general health and your expectations.

It is worth considering advice from other healthcare professionals as well, particularly if there are underlying health factors. Liposuction is not a solution to body image concerns, and it carries its own risks alongside its potential benefits.

Related areas

Aside from the chin and neck, other areas of the face such as the cheeks can be treated. Chin, cheek and neck contouring can produce a lifting effect in the lower face. It may also be combined with other facial procedures where wrinkles, sagging skin or volume loss are also concerns.

Costs

As a guide, the surgeon's fee for chin and neck liposuction is around $5,000. This is a surgeon's fee estimate only — the final cost varies with where the procedure is performed, and hospital, theatre and anaesthetist fees are additional.

Anaesthetist fees range from $800 to $1,200 per hour where a general anaesthetic is used; where local anaesthesia alone is appropriate, no anaesthetist fee applies. As at September 2024 and including GST, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is $350.

See liposuction costs for the full breakdown.

Recovery

You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours where a general anaesthetic is used. Compression garments may be required.

Expect swelling and bruising in the treated area, which settles over the following weeks. Most people return to work after two to three weeks, avoid exercise for the first two weeks, and are back to their usual routine by around six weeks. The final contour becomes clearer over several months as swelling resolves.

Risks and complications

All surgical procedures carry risks and potential complications, including infection, bruising, swelling, pain, scarring, bleeding and haematoma, seroma, contour irregularity, and changes in sensation from nerve damage. The neck contains important structures, so technique and surgeon experience matter in this area.

Risks are discussed with you in detail during the consultation process, and you are given written information to take home. Please read our information on the risks and complications of cosmetic surgery before proceeding.

Individual results may vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Referral and cooling-off period

Since 1 July 2023, all patients are required to have a GP referral before seeing a plastic surgeon or doctor about cosmetic surgery. For any cosmetic surgery there is a compulsory one-week cooling-off period after your second consultation before surgery can be booked.

Who performs the procedure

Dr Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MED0001405964) with over 30 years in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). See the full Me Clinic team.

See liposuction, double chin liposuction, neck lift, or facelift.