This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
Chin (submental) liposuction is a surgical procedure that may be considered to remove small volumes of fat from under the chin and upper neck in selected patients. Suitability depends on fat distribution, skin quality, and underlying anatomy. A consultation is required to discuss whether liposuction, skin‑tightening procedures, or other options are more appropriate. All surgery results in scars, and results vary.
Chin liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure to remove excess fat from the area under the chin and along the jawline. It is designed to help improve the definition of the lower face in patients who have a persistent “double chin” despite stable weight and healthy lifestyle measures.
During the procedure, one or more small incisions are made in inconspicuous areas under or near the chin. A thin tube (cannula) is inserted beneath the skin and connected to a suction device that carefully removes targeted fat deposits. The surgery is performed under local anaesthesia, +/- sedation, within a facility registered to perform liposuction in accordance with Australian safety and regulatory standards.
Chin liposuction is not a treatment for weight loss or obesity, and realistic expectations are an important part of your consultation. Your specialist will discuss your individual anatomy, potential benefits, and the recovery process, including time off work, activity restrictions, and follow‑up care. Common side‑effects may include swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, and mild discomfort, while rare but more serious risks include infection, contour irregularities, or nerve injury. You will be given a separate consent form and opportunity to ask questions before deciding whether to proceed.
Potential physical changes may include:
– Reduction of fullness under the chin in selected cases (degree varies).
– Change in the contour of the chin–neck area where skin quality and anatomy allow.
– Improved definition of the cervicomental angle in some patients (not guaranteed).
Outcomes vary. Additional procedures may be required to address loose skin or muscle banding in selected cases.
A suitable candidate is typically an adult who:
– Has localised submental fat and suitable skin elasticity on assessment.
– Is medically fit for surgery and recovery.
– Understands outcomes vary and scarring occurs.
You May Be a Good Candidate If
– You would like assessment of fullness under the chin/upper neck.
– You are at a stable weight and understand results vary with anatomy and healing.
– You can stop nicotine use as directed and follow aftercare instructions (including compression if recommended).
– You can plan for recovery and follow‑up.
– You have significant medical conditions that increase surgical/anaesthetic risk.
– You have poor skin elasticity where liposuction alone may not meet goals (assessment required).
– You are unable to cease nicotine use where clinically required.
– You have unrealistic expectations about outcomes or symmetry.
Technique selection is individual and based on your anatomy, goals and safety considerations. Options may include:
– Small access incisions: planned to minimise visibility where possible.
– Conservative contouring: approach depends on anatomy and safety considerations.
– Adjunct procedures (selected cases): may include skin excision or other options if laxity is significant.
Your clinician/surgeon will explain the recommended approach and expected trade‑offs during consultation.
Anesthesia
May be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on extent and patient factors.
You will receive individual instructions. Common requirements may include:
– Medication and supplement review, including anything that can increase bleeding risk (as advised).
– Nicotine cessation for the recommended period before and after treatment/surgery (if applicable).
– Planning time off work, transport, and at-home support (where relevant).
– Fasting instructions prior to anaesthesia (if applicable).
– Pre-operative assessments/tests as advised by your treating team.
Return to Work: often within 1–2 weeks depending on bruising and comfort.
Return to Exercise: light walking early; strenuous exercise commonly restricted for ~2–4 weeks or until cleared.
Assessing outcome: swelling can take weeks to months to settle.
The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
