A defined jawline has become one of the most sought-after facial features, but for many people, a double chin can get in the way of achieving that sculpted look. Whether it’s caused by genetics, aging, or stubborn fat deposits, the good news is there are several non-surgical double chin treatments available that can help reduce fullness under the chin and improve overall contour. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of a double chin, the most popular non-invasive options, and how to choose the best treatment for your patients.
What Causes a Double Chin?
A double chin, also known as submental fullness, is one of the most common aesthetic concerns, and it doesn’t always mean someone is overweight. In fact, even individuals who are slim and healthy can develop a double chin. Why? Several factors contribute to this issue.
- Genetics plays a major role, if your family has a predisposition to fat retention in the lower face and neck, chances are you might notice it too.
- Aging is another key culprit. As we get older, skin naturally loses elasticity and collagen, causing it to sag, while muscle tone and fat distribution also shift.
- Lifestyle factors, such as poor posture, can weaken the platysma muscle, making the jawline appear less defined over time.
- Weight gain can lead to fat accumulation under the chin. Understanding the root cause in each patient is essential for selecting the most effective double chin treatment approach.
When to Recommend Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Solutions
Not all double chins are created equal, and not all require the same treatment path. For patients with mild to moderate fat deposits, good skin elasticity, and realistic expectations, non-surgical treatments like deoxycholic acid injections (e.g., Belkyra or Kybella), cryolipolysis, or RF-based tightening can deliver impressive results with minimal downtime. However, if a patient presents with significant skin laxity, severe submental fat, or muscle banding, they may not be ideal candidates for non-invasive options. In these cases, referring to a plastic surgeon for procedures like liposuction or a neck lift may yield better, longer-lasting outcomes. As a medical aesthetician, the goal is to assess each patient's anatomy, listen to their goals, and be honest about what’s realistically achievable, non-surgically or otherwise.
Top Non-Surgical Double Chin Treatments
Let’s break down the best non-invasive treatment options available today. Each targets different aspects of submental fullness, from fat reduction to skin tightening.
1. Deoxycholic Acid Injections (e.g., Belkyra/Kybella)
These FDA-approved injections use synthetic deoxycholic acid to break down and absorb fat cells under the chin. Once destroyed, the fat cells don’t return. Most patients need 2–4 sessions spaced about 4–6 weeks apart.
- Pros: Permanent fat reduction, no surgery
- Considerations: Swelling and tenderness post-treatment are common and should be discussed during consultation.
2. Cryolipolysis (e.g., CoolSculpting)
This fat-freezing treatment uses controlled cooling to crystallize and destroy fat cells without damaging surrounding tissue. It’s a great option for patients who prefer not to have injections.
- Pros: No needles, minimal discomfort, proven results
- Considerations: Results appear gradually over 1–3 months. Multiple sessions may be required.
3. Radiofrequency (RF) and Ultrasound-Based Skin Tightening
RF and ultrasound devices heat the deeper layers of skin to stimulate collagen and elastin, improving firmness and tone. These are ideal for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity.
- Pros: No downtime, subtle tightening
- Considerations: Results are gradual and may require maintenance sessions.
4. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
HIFU targets deeper skin layers to tighten tissue and lift the jawline. It’s often used to treat sagging under the chin and around the neck.
- Pros: Non-invasive lift without downtime
- Considerations: Best for those with good skin quality and early sagging.
5. PDO Thread Lifting
Threads are inserted into the subdermal tissue to lift and reposition sagging skin while stimulating collagen production. Thread lifts work well for defining the jawline and improving skin tone.
- Pros: Immediate lift, collagen stimulation
- Considerations: Minor swelling or bruising is possible. Not ideal for those with excess fat.
How Many Sessions Are Needed and When Will You See Results?
The number of sessions varies based on the treatment type and the patient’s starting point:
- Belkyra/Kybella: 2–4 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart
- CoolSculpting: 1–3 sessions, depending on fat volume
- RF or Ultrasound: Usually 4–6 sessions spaced weekly or biweekly
- HIFU: 1–2 treatments per year
- Threads: Once a year, with visible lift after swelling subsides
Patients typically start to see visible improvement within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the treatment type.
Combining Treatments for Optimal Results
Some patients benefit from a combination approach, such as reducing fat with Belkyra, then tightening with radiofrequency or HIFU. This approach allows you to customize treatment plans for a smoother contour and firmer skin.
Thread lifting can also be added to enhance jawline structure after fat reduction. Learning how to sequence and combine these treatments safely and effectively is key, which is why online aesthetics courses and hands-on training are so valuable for medical professionals.
Check out our Skin Tightening Training course for advanced combination techniques.
Choosing the Right Patient: Tips for Medical Aestheticians
Patient selection is everything when it comes to successful double chin treatments.
Start by performing a thorough facial assessment that looks at fat distribution, skin quality, muscle tone, and jawline structure.
Next, evaluate the patient’s expectations: are they hoping for a dramatic sculpting effect after one session, or are they open to a series of gradual improvements? It's also important to educate patients on the timeline of results. For instance, deoxycholic acid injections can take several months and multiple treatments to show visible changes, while cryolipolysis may require patience as the body naturally eliminates frozen fat cells.
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, sun exposure, and weight fluctuations can influence outcomes.
Being transparent about the process, potential side effects, and maintenance can help establish trust and increase overall satisfaction. When patients are informed and matched with the right treatment, the results are not only more natural, but also more rewarding for both practitioner and client. Always explain that these treatments offer improvement, not perfection. A consultation rooted in honesty, education, and aesthetic planning ensures better outcomes and trust.
FAQ
Can I get rid of my double chin without surgery?
Yes. Non-surgical treatments like Belkyra, CoolSculpting, and HIFU can significantly reduce a double chin with no downtime.
What treatment dissolves fat under the chin?
Deoxycholic acid injections like Belkyra or Kybella dissolve fat cells, which the body then naturally eliminates.
How to reduce double chin in 7 days?
No non-surgical treatment offers dramatic results in 7 days. However, RF or HIFU can give subtle tightening quickly. Long-term results require multiple sessions.
Why do I have a double chin when I’m skinny?
Genetics, bone structure, and skin laxity can all contribute to a double chin, even in slim individuals.
How to sharpen a jawline?
A combination of fat reduction, skin tightening, and sometimes PDO threads or dermal filler can define and sharpen the jawline non-surgically.
Final Thoughts
Non-surgical double chin treatments have come a long way, offering safe, effective, and customizable solutions for patients seeking a more defined jawline without the need for surgery. From fat-dissolving injections to skin-tightening technologies, there’s a treatment option for almost every aesthetic goal and comfort level. As a medical aesthetician, understanding how to tailor these treatments to each patient’s anatomy and expectations is key to delivering natural-looking, confidence-boosting results. With the right training, tools, and consultation skills, you can transform how your patients feel about their profile, one contour at a time.
Sources
- Humphrey S, Sykes J, Kantor J, et al. ATX-101 for reduction of submental fat: A phase III randomized controlled trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;75(4):788-797.e7. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2016.04.028 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27430612/
- Scarano A, Amore R, Greco Lucchina A, et al. Reduction of double chin without surgery using ascorbic acid and ascorbyl-palmitate solution: a clinical study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2023;27(3 Suppl):109-113. doi:10.26355/eurrev_202304_31327 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37129320/
- Vazirnia A, Braz A, Fabi SG. Nonsurgical jawline rejuvenation using injectable fillers. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(8):1940-1947. doi:10.1111/jocd.13277 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31889377/