Injectables include a variety of products, including Botox, dermal fillers, and Kybella. They often work very well together, such as the Kybella/filler combination. VIDA only offers the safest and most effective injectables, with every provider personally trained by Dr.Kim Thompson. For those who are struggling with a “double chin,” it’s important to consider the myriad of factors that might be causing it. Sometimes it’s “just” a pocket of stubborn submental fat, in which case Kybella alone is the cure. However, oftentimes there are a number of extenuating factors.
Anyone can have a double chin, and it becomes more common with age—regardless of weight. Why is this, and why do slender and fit people sometimes have this embarrassing condition? There can also be skin laxity as well as a “weak chin” or jawline exacerbating the look of a double chin. When this occurs, you need to tackle every cause of the double chin, starting with the fat.
Fat Removal with Kybella
For years, the only way to get rid of excess fat in the submental area was with liposuction, which is a costly, painful, and risky surgery. Plus, liposuction leaves a scar, albeit a small one. Kybella dissolves unwanted fat with a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, the body’s natural fat-buster. Around 3 – 6 treatments are needed for most patients, with injections spaced one month apart. A conservative approach is a must because once this fat is dissolved, it can’t grow back. Too much removal can look just as bad, or worse, than a double chin.
However, you will start to see significant results within one month of your first injection. “Injection” should also be called “injections,” since Kybella uses a special stamping device so you get several injections at once. This drastically minimizes the time and discomfort of each appointment. In fact, most Kybella appointments take less than 25 minutes.
Weak Chin Woes
Removing excess fat isn’t going to cut it if you also have a weak or recessed chin. This is often a genetic trait that gets highlighted with age. Dermal fillers in the chin and/or along the jawline can help. This might be done through hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, which offer immediate results that can last anywhere from 6 – 18 months. HA fillers are the most popular, but they are not the only option.
There are also collagen induction fillers which work by stimulating collagen production, and in turn volume, in the weeks following the injection. These types of fillers are preferred by those who want natural-looking, long-lasting results. These fillers can last up to two years, making them a “semi-permanent” solution.
Skin Laxity
Skin laxity is the final issue that might be worsening the appearance of a double chin. There are many ways to fix this, including laser skin rejuvenation. A reduction in collagen production is the leading cause of skin sagging and laxity, though gravity also plays a role. The exact skin tightening treatment for you and your goals will depend on many factors and can be discussed during your consultation.
Ultherapy is another option and while it is often grouped into the “laser” category, it actually uses ultrasound energy for skin tightening. It began as the “alternative to a facelift,” a surgical procedure that addresses laxity on the lower half of the face and neck, but is now routinely used in other areas, too. Ultherapy offers dramatic results that can last several months and is an excellent choice for those who struggle with skin looseness in the submental area.
Double Down on Undoing Your Double Chin
If you want to avoid surgery but still get stunning results, there are many options available to treat your double chin. You might start to notice a double chin as early as your thirties, and as long as you are a healthy adult you might be a good candidate for Kybella, fillers, lasers, and/or Ultherapy.
Find out more and schedule your consultation with VIDA today, where we are much more than a medical spa. Call the office during business hours or, for the fastest response, complete the online contact form.
