Things that typically get bigger in November: turkeys, mustaches, tummies, and double chins. Whether you’re visiting family out of town or enjoying Thanksgiving in the “harsh” San Diego weather, overindulgence in food and beverage is inevitable. Tis’ the season to sprout a second chin…
Faces+ dermatologist Dr. Tracy Leong offers several ways to stave off the dreaded double chin. “Submental fullness, otherwise known as a double chin, is a common cosmetic concern for patients. Until recently, the only option available for people with excess fat in this area was liposuction. However with the introduction of Kybella last year, patients now have a nonsurgical option for permanent removal of their double chins.”
QUICK AND EASY
Kybella offers people a relatively fast and noninvasive way to get rid of their submental fat, or double chin. The FDA approved injectable, also known as deoxycholic acid, disrupts the fat cells by destroying their membranes, causing the fat cells to rupture and then be permanently eliminated. “It typically takes me 10-15 minutes to do the injections,” says Dr. Leong, who trains other physicians to perform the Kybella procedure. “Recovery time is usually 5-10 days and common side effects include swelling and minor bruising.” The results from Kybella occur gradually and improvement will be seen over the course of several weeks to months. Most patients will require 2-4 treatments spaced at least 6 weeks apart.
COMBINATION TREATMENTS
Kybella can certainly be used in conjunction with other procedures to help you achieve an optimal aesthetic outcome. Depending on your needs, combination with skin tightening procedures, such as ThermiRF and Ultherapy, or skin rejuvenating laser treatments like Laser Genesis or Fraxel may be extremely beneficial. Discussion about the ideal treatment plan for you should take place at your consultation appointment with Dr. Cohen or Dr. Leong.
SURGERY
For those with excessive fat accumulation in the neck and chin area, surgery may be a better option. Heredity, weight gain or the natural aging process can cause fat deposits in these areas. These traits are often resistant to weight loss and exercise. Liposuction involves the removal of specific areas of localized fat deposits in the neck and jaw area. It is performed on an outpatient basis and takes approximately one hour. Sometimes a recessed chin may be associated with a double chin. At FACES+, we also offer non-surgical chin augmentation and a full range of surgical options.
PREVENTION
Watch your diet and add a few targeted exercises to your workout. Two main muscles — the sternocleidomastoid and platysma — make up your neck, and toning them can help pull the overlaying skin tighter for a younger, healthier look. In addition, adding a topical skin firming cream to your skincare regimen can help improve the appearance of the chin and neck area. Dr. Leong’s favorite cosmeceuticals for firming up this area include Revision Nectifirm, Neocutis Micro Firm Rejuvenating Complex, and Faces+ Neckletage. “All of these contain peptides and antioxidants that help to hydrate and tighten the skin,” says Dr. Leong.
Fall is a fun time of year in San Diego but holiday parties can leave you feeling stuffed like a turkey. Follow the advice of expert Dermatologist Dr. Tracy Leong and put your best chin forward this fall.