A double chin doesn’t always indicate that an individual is overweight, it can just as easily be attributed to age, genetics or facial anatomy. For many, excess submental fat under the chin or the appearance of a double chin can negatively affect self esteem and body image. Fortunately, there are now two FDA approved non-surgical ways to reduce or eliminate a double chin and define the jawline.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Fat Reduction Under The Chin in Camarillo and Ventura
KYBELLA®
Kybella treatment consists of a series of injections that work to permanently destroy fat cells under the chin. Using synthetic deoxycholic acid, which aids in the breakdown and natural absorption of fat, Kybella results in noticeable reduction in excess submental fat and fullness under the chin.
During a Kybella appointment, the treatment area is assessed, cleaned, then marked with a planning grid to see exactly how many injections are needed to treat the area. During the treatment, a licensed practitioner will make multiple small injections to the submental chin area according to a predetermined grid pattern. Treatment typically takes approximately 15 minutes. Most patients need between 3 and 6 Kybella treatments to achieve desired results. Final results are generally visible typically 6-12 weeks following the last Kybella injection, and most patients report a noticeable difference after 12 weeks.
Coolsculpting®
Coolsculpting is an FDA-approved body-contouring technology that freezes and destroys fat cells permanently. Using a process called cryolipolysis to freeze and kill fat cells, CoolSculpting can reduce fat 20-25% in the submental chin area per treatment.
During a CoolSculpting appointment, the treatment area is marked with a planning template to determine how many applicators are needed to cover the treatment area (1-3 are commonly needed). Targeting excess fat under the chin typically requires overlapping two small applicators. The treatment will begin with the placement of the applicator on the treatment area. Patients experience a sucking/pulling sensation under the applicator, followed by an intense cooling and then a numbing sensation. Each treatment takes 45 minutes and most patients need 1 to 2 treatments to eliminate a double chin. Final results are generally visible 1-3 months afterwards, however for some it can take up to 4 months to see full results.
Side Effects: Kybella vs. CoolSculpting
When it comes to Kybella, the most common side effects include redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising and areas of induration (small hard nodules) at the injection site. Serious, but rare side effects can include difficulty swallowing, nerve injury, and damage to skin. All reported side effects are temporary.
Typical side effects associated with CoolSculpting are temporary and include mild swelling, blanching and/or redness, firmness, bruising, tenderness, tingling, or skin sensitivity. Following a treatment for submental fat under the chin, patients may experience a temporary sensation of fullness at the back of the throat.
Downtime: Kybella vs. CoolSculpting
Following a Kybella treatment, bruising, swelling, and redness can last a few weeks. Most patients experience significant swelling in the treatment area for 2-3 days, then experience areas of induration or “hardness” that can last for several weeks before resolving on their own.
There is little to no downtime required following a Coolsculpting treatment. Most patients are able to resume normal activity immediately afterwards.
Am I A Candidate For Microneedling?
Microneedling is beneficial for all skin types, and most patients are candidates. The only time that we recommend an individual not receive a microneedling treatment is if they have active acne, because it would spread the bacteria and prolong the breakout. People who have Keloid scarring in the treatment area should not microneedle. Just like with many other aesthetic treatments, patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding are advised against treatment due to lack of safety studies on this population.
Number of Treatments: Kybella vs. CoolSculpting
Every patient requires a different number of Kybella treatments to achieve their desired result. Depending on the amount of submental chin fat, patients typically need anywhere from 2-4 treatments, space 6-8 weeks apart.
Coolsculpting patients typically need anywhere from 1-3 treatments to completely eliminate submental chin fat.
Which Treatment Is Best For Me?
A personal consultation is important for determining whether Kybella or CoolSculpting will be best to meet your cosmetic goals. Before scheduling any treatments, an experienced practitioner will examine the area of concern and discuss which treatment would be best to achieve the desired outcome.
Are Kybella and CoolSculpting Treatments Permanent?
Once the fat cells are destroyed with Kybella, fat cannot accumulate again in the treated area. Once a patient has reached their aesthetic goal, additional Kybella treatments are not expected.
Similar to Kybella, once fat cells are destroyed with CoolSculpting, they will not return again. However, it is possible to gain weight after treatment if healthy habits such as regular exercise and a balanced diet are not maintained.
Find Out If You’re A Candidate For Kybella or CoolSculpting
If you’re interested in learning more about getting rid of excess fat under the chin with Kybella or CoolSculpting, contact us to schedule a consultation in Camarillo or Ventura.
