What is double chin lipolysis and how does it work?
Double chin lipolysis injects a product that disrupts the membranes of fat cells into the fat under the chin. The damaged fat cells are then gradually cleared by the body.
Deoxycholic acid is one of the bile acids the body uses to digest fat. Its injectable form disrupts the membranes of fat cells in the treated area, leading to their breakdown, and the body’s natural healing processes then clear the damaged cells. That is why results appear gradually over several weeks rather than immediately, and several weeks are usually allowed after each session before judging the effect.
Various mixtures may also be offered under names such as lipolysis or fat-dissolving injections, and their composition and licensing status differ. Treatments with mixtures of uncertain origin can increase the risk of unexpected reactions and complications. Which product is licensed in Turkey for this purpose, and for which indication, should be stated clearly by the physician before treatment, and the packaging and batch number shared.
What can it do, and what can it not do?
It may be considered for reducing a limited amount of under-chin fat that does not respond readily to weight change. It is not used for weight loss, skin tightening or correcting neck bands.
A double chin is not always caused by fat. Skin laxity, bands in the neck muscles, jaw structure or deeper fat beneath the muscle can create a similar appearance. Injectable lipolysis is only a meaningful option for limited fat lying just under the skin, the kind that can be pinched between the fingers. So the first step is to identify which structure is responsible, by examining the area in different positions.
In people with marked skin laxity, reducing fat can make the looseness more visible. In that case energy-based devices, muscle-focused approaches such as Nefertiti botox, or a surgical opinion may be more relevant. This method also does not reduce body weight or replace weight management, and as weight changes can affect results, treatment makes most sense when your weight is relatively stable.
Who may not be suitable?
Marked skin laxity, swelling or a lump in the neck, infection in the area, a history of swallowing difficulty, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and known allergy to the product may make it unsuitable.
The first step is to establish what is causing the fullness. If there is thyroid enlargement, a swollen lymph node or any other lump in the neck, treatment is not carried out and appropriate assessment is recommended. Previous surgery or other procedures in the neck area also matter for planning. If skin laxity or muscle bands rather than fat are the main factor, alternatives are discussed openly.
Treatment is not carried out during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Blood thinners, bleeding disorders, a history of difficulty swallowing and active skin infection in the area are assessed separately, as are recent neck or dental infections. If what you are hoping for is weight loss or skin tightening, it will be explained clearly that this method is not appropriate. Suitability is decided by the physician.
How is it done, and how many sessions are needed?
The area under the chin is marked, local anaesthesia may be used, and the product is placed with many small injections. Several sessions about a month apart are usually needed.
The treatment area is marked to stay at a safe distance from the lower border of the jaw and from important nerves. The product is injected into the fat under the skin in small amounts at regular intervals. A burning or stinging sensation may be felt during and after treatment, which the physician may reduce with cooling or local anaesthesia. Treatment usually takes around half an hour.
The number of sessions depends on the amount of fat and how the tissue responds; several sessions about four weeks apart are common. The area is reassessed before each session, and the amount and area treated may change as the fat reduces. Results appear gradually, and it is important not to judge the outcome until swelling has fully settled, a few weeks after the final session.
What should you expect afterwards, and what are the risks?
Marked swelling, bruising, tenderness, numbness and firmness in the area are common. Rarely, a temporarily uneven smile, difficulty swallowing or skin problems can develop.
Swelling under the chin is usually noticeable and eases over a few days to two weeks, so plan social commitments with this in mind. Bruising, tenderness, numbness and firmness to the touch are also common and usually resolve with time. Cool compresses and keeping your head raised can help, high collars or scarves may feel uncomfortable at first, and the area should not be massaged.
Less commonly, injury to the nerve along the jawline can cause a temporarily uneven smile; difficulty swallowing, skin ulceration or infection can also occur. Unlicensed mixtures may increase these risks. If you notice increasing pain, skin colour change or difficulty swallowing, contact your physician promptly. You should be given contact details after treatment and a follow-up should be arranged.
Frequently asked questions
Will double chin lipolysis help me lose weight?
No. It targets only a limited amount of fat under the chin; it does not reduce body weight or replace weight management.
How long does the swelling last?
Swelling is usually marked and eases over a few days to two weeks. It varies with the individual and the amount injected.
Will it tighten loose skin?
It is not a skin-tightening treatment. If there is marked laxity, reducing fat can make it more visible, so skin quality is assessed at consultation.
How many double chin lipolysis sessions will I need?
It depends on the amount of fat; several sessions about a month apart are common. The exact number is decided at consultation.
Can the fat come back if I gain weight?
With weight gain, the remaining fat cells can enlarge and fullness may return. Keeping your weight stable matters.
What is the difference between double chin lipolysis and Nefertiti Botox?
Double chin lipolysis aims to reduce fat under the skin beneath the chin, whereas Nefertiti Botox softens the platysma muscle bands in the neck and their downward pull on the jawline. One targets fat and the other targets muscle movement. Examination shows which structure is causing the fullness, and for some people both may be considered in one plan at different times.
What is the difference between double chin lipolysis and neck liposuction?
Double chin lipolysis aims to reduce limited under-chin fat with injections, usually over several sessions, whereas neck liposuction is a surgical procedure in which fat is removed through cannulas under local or general anaesthesia, usually in one go. Liposuction is considered when there is more fat, sometimes alongside skin-tightening procedures. The choice depends on the amount of fat, skin quality and your expectations.
How long does numbness under the chin last after double chin lipolysis?
Numbness under the chin is common after double chin lipolysis and in most people resolves on its own within a few weeks, though it can last longer. Because numb skin senses heat and cold less well, do not apply ice or heat directly or for long, and shave gently. If numbness persists, or comes with an uneven smile or difficulty swallowing, contact your physician.
Can double chin lipolysis be used on the cheeks or jawline?
Generally not; double chin lipolysis is planned for limited fat under the chin, and using it on the cheeks or jawline is usually not advised. These areas contain salivary glands, facial nerve branches and muscles of expression, so the complication risk differs. Lower-face fullness may come from fat, jowls or a prominent masseter muscle; depending on the cause, Botox, fillers or devices may be considered.
Sources (5)
- U.S. FDA: KYBELLA (deoxycholic acid) injection, for subcutaneous use: Prescribing Information (2022)
- U.S. FDA: Using Fat-Dissolving Injections That Are Not FDA Approved Can Be Harmful
- U.S. FDA: FDA Approves Additional Information in Labeling for Kybella (Deoxycholic Acid) Injection Warning of Adverse Reactions Associated with Unapproved Use
- Aesthet Surg J Open Forum (Shridharani SM, Kennedy ML): Management of Serious Adverse Events Following Deoxycholic Acid Injection for Submental and Jowl Fat Reduction: A Systematic Review and Management Recommendations (2024)
- J Cosmet Dermatol (Farina GA, et al.): Deoxycholic acid in the submental fat reduction: A review of properties, adverse effects, and complications (2020)
This content is for general information and does not replace a personal medical assessment.