Double chin reduction

Fullness under the chin - submental fat - often does not respond to diet or exercise. It can be the result of ageing, weight gain, or simply genetics, and it is a normal variation in body shape rather than a defect.

Where someone wants to change it, Me Clinic offers a non-surgical injectable treatment as well as surgical liposuction. This page covers the non-surgical option: how it works, how many sessions it takes, and its risks - including two that are worth understanding before you book.

How the injectable treatment works

The treatment uses an injectable prescription medicine that disrupts the membranes of fat cells. The cells break down and the released fat is cleared by the body over subsequent weeks. Because the fat cells themselves are destroyed rather than shrunk, the change can be durable where weight is stable.

It targets submental fat specifically - the pocket directly under the chin - which is a different compartment to fat lower in the neck.

Because it involves a prescription medicine, treatment must be prescribed by a doctor following a consultation, and Australian law restricts what can be published about such medicines - which is why no product name appears on this page.

How it differs from the alternatives

Liposuction removes fat mechanically through small incisions using a cannula. It is a surgical procedure, generally done in one session, and removes more fat in one go. Double chin liposuction costs around $5,000.
Cryolipolysis uses controlled cooling to damage fat cells. It is a different device-based approach not offered here.
Injectable treatment is non-surgical, requires multiple sessions, and involves less downtime than surgery.

Who it suits - and who it does not

The treatment addresses fat. It does not remove or lift skin. That distinction determines suitability.

Generally suitable: people close to their goal weight, with a discrete pocket of submental fat that persists despite a healthy lifestyle, and reasonable skin quality.

Generally not suitable:

People whose main issue is loose skin with minimal fat. Removing what little fat is there can make loose skin more obvious, not less. A neck lift is the procedure that addresses skin.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding - as with any injectable treatment.
People with infection or a skin condition in the treatment area, or certain difficulties with swallowing.

There may be some skin tightening as fat volume reduces, but this should not be relied on, and it is not a substitute for a skin-removing procedure.

The treatment itself

Ice or cold packs, topical anaesthetic, or injectable local anaesthetic may be used first for comfort.
The injectable treatment takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
The pattern of injections is tailored to your anatomy.

How many sessions

The number varies between individuals. In practice most patients need up to two sessions, though up to six may be administered, spaced six weeks apart. Some patients see a change in the chin profile after two to four treatments; others see little change. This is discussed and reviewed as you go rather than committed to up front.

Recovery and side effects

Expect swelling under the chin - this is a direct consequence of how the treatment works, and it can be pronounced. It usually lasts a few days and is generally most noticeable after the first session, reducing with subsequent treatments.

Discomfort in the treated area is common and is often described as feeling like sunburn under the skin. Bandaging is not usually required. Bruising, numbness, firmness and redness in the area are also common.

If you would prefer that visible swelling not coincide with public-facing commitments, plan several days' margin after each session.

Risks

All treatments carry risks. For fat-dissolving injections under the chin these include:

Swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness and areas of firmness at the injection site
Numbness of the treated area, which can persist for weeks or months
Injury to the marginal mandibular nerve, causing an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness. This is usually temporary but can take months to resolve
Difficulty swallowing
Injection site ulceration, tissue damage or necrosis, particularly if injected into or near a blood vessel
Hair loss at the injection site
Infection
Asymmetry or contour irregularity
Little or no response

Seek medical attention if you develop an uneven smile, facial weakness, difficulty swallowing, or skin breakdown at an injection site.

Please read our information on the risks and complications of cosmetic surgery before proceeding.

How durable is the result?

Fat cells destroyed by the treatment do not return. However, the fat cells remaining in the area - and everywhere else - can still enlarge with weight gain, so a stable weight is what preserves the result. Some people need further treatment later. Nobody can guarantee that no further treatment will ever be needed.

Cost

Double chin treatment costs start from $3,500. The total depends on the number of sessions and the volume required, which is determined at consultation after assessment of the treatment area.

As at September 2024 and including GST, a consultation with a Cosmetic Doctor is $150. This is a cosmetic treatment and is not covered by Medicare.

Frequently asked questions

Can this treatment be used elsewhere on the body?

No. Submental fat under the chin is the treatment area.

Does it hurt?

There is mild discomfort - commonly described as a sunburn-like sensation under the skin. It is not painless.

Who should not have it?

People with loose skin and minimal neck fat, and anyone pregnant or breastfeeding. Suitability is assessed at consultation.

Will it help loose skin?

There may be some tightening as volume reduces, but the treatment does not remove or lift skin. Where loose skin is the main concern, a neck lift is the relevant procedure.

Is there downtime?

Swelling under the chin for a few days is usual. Most people continue normal activities but may prefer to avoid face-to-face commitments in that window.

What other non-surgical options exist?

Cryolipolysis (controlled cooling) and heat-based fat reduction devices. For a surgical option, see double chin liposuction.

Booking

An initial consultation is the first step, where the treatment area is assessed and a plan and quote prepared. Me Clinic is at 4 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145, five minutes' walk from Caulfield station. Phone 1300 852 050, or use the online consultation form.

This information is general guidance and cannot be the basis for a treatment decision. An initial consultation is required for an informed decision.

See double chin before and after, double chin liposuction, neck lift, or all face procedures.

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.