What is "submental (under the chin) liposuction"?

Simply put, it is liposuction under the chin. In some cases, in addition to liposuction, it is removed directly by cutting it out ("excision") and this is called a "submental lipectomy," but the terms are close to synonymous.

Who benefits from submental liposuction?

Anyone who has ever shuddered at seeing a double chin in a photograph. An extra fat pad under the chin is very common and most people inherit this condition. It unfairly makes them look overweight by obscuring the jawline. A well-defined jawline is attractive - just look at any model or actor.

It is common for men to use facial hair such as goatees to help give definition to their jawline and you can observe this among major league baseball players. The cheek should not blend in to the neck. The area under the chin is one of the few places on the body where flatness is preferred!

What you can do to improve your jawline

Highlighting the jawline by submental liposuction may be done on its own or in combination with an implant. Of all the facial cosmetic procedures, jawline enhancement has one of the highest patient satisfaction rates.

Is this procedure complicated?

Fortunately, the procedure is straightforward. It involves an inconspicuous incision just under the chin. Often, there is a skin crease or old scar at this location anyway.

How do I know if submental liposuction is right for me?

Patients often come to see me interested in liposuction of the body or another cosmetic surgical procedure. If they have an extra fat pad under the chin, I don't mind pointing this out to them.

Most people are aware of their "double chins" already, often from having seen their profile in photographs. They may decide to have this fat pad treated at the same time as another cosmetic procedure, such as liposuction of the trunk or lower body. They are gratified by having a leaner appearance and often receive compliments. Most people think they have lost weight.

How Do I know if I need a Facelift at the same time?

Submental lipectomy does not tighten the skin of the neck and does not treat jowls. For patients under 40, usually the degree of skin laxity is minimal and a submental lipectomy will be sufficient. However, for patients over 40, there is typically some skin laxity. The decision becomes, should I have a submental lipectomy alone or do I need a facelift? The submental lipectomy will improve the profile, even when there is excessive skin laxity, but the skin tone will not improve. Jowls will persist. If the jowls or loose skin of the neck are priorities, there is no substitute for a facelift, which is done at the same time as the submental lipectomy.