Double chin liposuction

A double chin is caused by fat sitting in the submental area, beneath the chin and above the neck. It can be present in people who are otherwise a healthy weight, because fat distribution in this area is influenced by genetics and ageing as much as by weight.

Double chin liposuction removes that fat through small incisions. Me Clinic performs a range of liposuction techniques including treatment of this area.

What the procedure involves

The procedure is minimally invasive. Only small incisions are required to access and remove the fat from beneath the chin, and they are placed discreetly - typically under the chin or behind the ear.

Because the volume of fat is small compared with body areas, the procedure is often performed under mild sedation or local anaesthetic rather than a general anaesthetic. Most patients leave the clinic the same day.

What it addresses

Localised fat beneath the chin.
Loss of definition along the jawline caused by submental fat.
Fullness under the chin that persists despite a stable, healthy weight.

Bending the head forward tends to make submental fullness more apparent, which is why the concern is often more noticeable in photographs than in the mirror.

Outcomes vary depending on individual anatomy and skin quality, and individual results may vary. Longevity of the result is not guaranteed.

Fat versus skin, and the muscle underneath

Liposuction removes fat. It does not tighten loose skin, and it does not address the platysma muscle bands that can contribute to neck appearance.

Where skin laxity is significant, or where muscle banding is part of the picture, a neck lift or facelift may be needed instead of, or alongside, liposuction. Skin elasticity tends to decline with age, so this assessment matters. Your surgeon will advise which applies in your case.

Suitability

A good candidate has localised submental fat with reasonable skin elasticity, is in good general health, is at a stable weight, and has realistic expectations of what the procedure can achieve.

Liposuction is not a weight loss method, and it is not a solution to body image concerns. It is a contouring procedure.

Why patients choose it

Mild sedation rather than a general anaesthetic in many cases.
Minimal downtime compared with facial surgery.
Same-day discharge.
Small incisions, so minimal scarring.

Like all surgical procedures it carries risks, which are discussed at consultation.

Costs

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 where applicable.

Where the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic or sedation in clinic rather than under general anaesthetic in hospital, the total is lower because no anaesthetist fee applies. As at September 2024 and including GST, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is $350.

See liposuction costs.

Recovery

Where sedation or general anaesthetic is used, you need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
A compression garment or chin strap may be worn to reduce swelling and support the tissue as it heals.
Expect swelling and bruising under the chin, settling over the following weeks.
Avoid exercise for the first two weeks; gentle walking is encouraged.
Most people return to work after two to three weeks, though facial swelling is more visible than swelling on the body, which some people factor into their timing.
Most are back to their usual exercise routine by around six weeks.

Most patients are seen at seven to ten days, then at six to eight weeks, three months, six months and twelve months. The final contour becomes clearer over several months.

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 nerves and structures, including the marginal mandibular nerve which affects lower lip movement. 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.

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