Are you bothered by submental fullness — more commonly known as a “double chin?” Dr. Michael McCracken, a facial plastic surgeon serving Denver, can help. He offers a few different treatment options to reduce extra fat and create a more defined, attractive chin. In this blog post, he discusses two of the most popular options: Kybella and neck liposuction.

Neck Liposuction

Traditionally, facial plastic surgeons have used liposuction to remove a thick layer of subcutaneous fat that rests below the chin and at the top of the neck.  This fat gives the area a full, fatty look.

 

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that is performed through small incisions underneath the chin. A small, hollow tube is inserted through the incisions and gently breaks up and removes the fat. The procedure lasts approximately one hour.  Anesthesia may be used or the procedure may be performed with the injection of dilute numbing medication (tumescence). Most patients recover within a week or two of surgery.

Kybella

Kybella is a relatively new product that was approved by the FDA in 2015 to address submental fullness and contour the chin area. The injectable product causes the rapid destruction and absorption of fat cells and prevents the future growth of additional fat.

 

Kybella is formulated with deoxycholic acid, which is what the body uses to dissolve ingested fats. Kybella is able to selectively target fat. To see results, a series of one to three sessions spaced two months apart is typically recommended.

 

While liposuction is certainly an effective way to treat submental fullness, Kybella is less invasive and offers noticeable results. Patients can achieve the desired improvement without the commitment of surgery. Kybella does not require incisions or anesthesia and has little downtime.

 

One drawback of both Kybella and liposuction is that both approaches will not improve dramatically loose, lax skin around the chin or neck. Simply removing the fat would only serve to accentuate the sagginess of the area. The best way to address sagging skin and create a more streamlined contour in the area is through surgery.

Contact Dr. McCracken

To discuss your personal cosmetic needs and goals, and to determine whether Kybella, liposuction or another option is best for you, please contact McCracken Eye and Face Institute and request a consultation with Dr. McCracken. Call (720) 851-6600 or send us an email today.