Submental lipolysis

Submental lipolysis, also known as “double chin treatment,” is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing excess fat under the chin and around the neck area. Here is a guide to help you understand what submental lipolysis is, what to expect before and after the procedure, and some potential risks and benefits.

What is Submental Lipolysis?
Submental lipolysis is a non-surgical procedure that uses injections of a substance called deoxycholic acid to break down and dissolve fat cells in the chin and neck area. The procedure is performed in the clinic and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

1. Good overall health: Patients should be in good health and free of any medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications during the procedure.
2. Age and skin elasticity: Submental lipolysis is generally most effective in patients who are between 18 and 65 years old, and who have good skin elasticity. Older patients or those with loose skin in the neck area may not see as dramatic results.
3. Stable weight: Patients should be at a stable weight, as significant weight gain or loss after the procedure can affect the results.
4. Excess submental fat: The best candidates for submental lipolysis are those who have excess submental fat under the chin and around the neck area. Patients with a small amount of submental fat may not see significant results from the procedure.
5. Realistic expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations about the results of submental lipolysis. While the procedure can reduce the appearance of a double chin, it may not completely eliminate all submental fat.
6. Significant skin laxity: the treatment does not reduce severe skin laxity in the submental area.

Before the Procedure
Before the procedure, we will evaluate your medical history and examine your chin and neck to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment. You should inform your doctor about any medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking. You may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements, such as blood thinners, for a few days before the procedure. It’s also important to avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can increase the risk of complications.

During the Procedure
During the submental lipolysis procedure, your doctor will use a small needle to inject the deoxycholic acid solution into the area under your chin. You may feel some discomfort or an intense burning sensation during the injection, but this should only last a few seconds.

After the Procedure
After the submental lipolysis procedure, you may experience some swelling, redness, and bruising in the treated area. This is normal and should subside within a few days. You may also feel some numbness or tingling in the area, but this is usually temporary. We will give you specific instructions on how to care for the treated area, which may include applying ice packs or taking over-the-counter pain medication. You should avoid touching or rubbing the treated area, and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours
after the procedure.

Results and Recovery
You may start to see results from submental lipolysis within a few weeks of the procedure. Your body will gradually break down and eliminate the fat cells, which can take several months to complete.

Submental lipolysis is a non-surgical procedure, so there is typically no downtime or recovery period. You can return to your normal activities immediately after the procedure, but you should avoid strenuous exercise or activities that may cause sweating or rubbing in the treated area for at least 24 hours.

Risks and Benefits
Like any medical procedure, submental lipolysis carries some risks and benefits. Some potential risks include:

• Swelling, bruising, or redness in the treated area
• Numbness or tingling in the area
• Uneven or lumpy results

However, the risks associated with submental lipolysis are generally low, and most people experience few or no complications from the procedure.
The benefits of submental lipolysis include:

• A more defined jawline and neck
• Improved self-esteem and confidence
• A non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure with no downtime

Overall, submental lipolysis can be an effective and safe option for people who want to reduce the appearance of a double chin or excess fat under the chin and neck area. Talk to your doctor to determine if submental lipolysis is right for you.