Book a consultation
Book a consultation

Face by Mr Ioannis Goutos

Double Chin

Double Chin

A double chin refers to an additional area of fat that can develop under the jaw bone, giving the appearance of a second chin. This is sometimes referred to medically as ‘submental’ fat. As we age or have changes in our weight, this can alter the distribution of fat around the face and neck, resulting in changes in their shape.

Additionally, as people age, the skin can become looser and more saggy, which may make such changes more prominent. A double chin is more common in those who have a higher body mass index (BMI), although can arise in those who are slimmer, especially if there is a family history of getting a double chin. Sometimes a double chin is also seen in those who have developed ‘jowls’.

Jowls are slightly different to a double chin, in that they develop due to ‘dropping’ of the fat pads within the cheeks to create additional pockets of skin and fat around the sides of the jaw. Having a double chin, with or without jowls, can lead to a loss of definition around the jawline. This may cause some people to feel conscious of the shape of their face and lead to problems with low self-esteem. This can, in turn, lead to restrictions on a person’s choice of clothing or activities.

Book your consultation today

Book now

About this condition

In general, weight loss through regular exercise and a healthy diet will also help to reduce the appearance of a double chin. However, in some cases, this pocket of fat can be stubborn and difficult to get rid of. There are a number of invasive procedures that can be performed to give more marked and longer-lasting results. Surgical treatment options include:

  • Liposuction: direct removal of the fatty pocket under the chin
  • Face lift: aims to make the skin around the lower face more taut to reduce the appearance of a double chin
  • Neck lift: similarly to a face lift, aims to tighten the looser skin around the neck to restore a more toned and youthful contour

These are all surgical procedures that will also involve either a general anaesthetic, or a local anaesthetic with sedation. It will take several weeks for recovery and for the final results to be fully appreciated. Additionally, laser-based techniques, such as Endolift, are less invasive and can give good results in certain individuals without the need for any surgical incisions or general anaesthetic.

The best procedure for you will depend on the size and shape of the double chin, the skin tone around the lower face and neck and whether there is any associated loose or saggy skin around the jaw and neck. If there are also jowls present, or any other cosmetic problems within a similar area, these can often be targeted within one procedure. An experienced plastic surgeon will be able to make a thorough assessment and consider your specific aesthetic goals to form an appropriate treatment plan and suggest the best procedures for you.

Mr Ioannis Goutos is a top, London-based plastic surgeon with a particular interest in scars, burns and body contouring procedures. He is a technically skilled surgeon and able to offer a number of surgical and non-surgical procedures. Mr Goutos provides thorough assessments and gold standard post-treatment care and follow up.

Read more
Goutos London - Double Chin

Testimonials

Mr Goutos is delighted to share some of his patient and peer feedback on their experiences of his services.

Read more reviews

Accreditation & Memberships