What Causes a Double Chin and How Can I Get Rid of Mine?
While a double chin is nothing to be embarrassed about, it is one of the most common insecurities out there. Self-perception of facial attractiveness in general affects self-esteem more than other types of perceived physical imperfections.
For example, a 2018 study found that the amount of submental (under the chin) fat you carry is directly proportional not only to lower self-esteem, but also to altered and avoidant behaviors, such as avoiding being photographed or wearing clothes that reveal the neck.
Here at Dutch Hollow Medical Day Spa, we’re passionate about helping you get your confidence back so you can live your life to the fullest. If a double chin is getting in the way of you enjoying your life, read on to see how our team, led by Dr. Samuel Figueroa and medical esthetician Mirka Figueroa, can help.
Double chins: causes and solutions
The leading cause of a double chin is an overall higher body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage. As you age, sagging facial skin can also contribute. It’s probably no surprise that the first line of defense is general weight loss practices, like a balanced diet, calorie deficit, and exercise.
Often lifestyle changes can only go so far. If you’re overweight, losing weight will improve your overall health, which is the most important thing. Unfortunately, you can’t control where you lose that fat.
The aforementioned study also found that 61% of respondents felt that the amount of fat under their chin was not proportional to the rest of their body. So you’re not alone if you feel like your double chin is more resistant to weight loss than other areas of your body.
Luckily, we provide a revolutionary injectable treatment that can address your double chin if your hard work isn’t paying off. Enter Kybella®.
What is Kybella® and how does it work?
Kybella® is the only nonsurgical injectable treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration to remove fat deposits under the chin. The injection contains a synthetic, safe formulation of deoxycholic acid, an enzyme naturally produced in your bile that dissolves fat cells.
Unlike regular fat loss, which shrinks the size of fat cells, Kybella eliminates the fat cells altogether. Deoxycholic acid safely destroys fat cells, allowing them to be excreted as waste.
After the fat cells are eliminated, immune cells come into the area and promote new collagen. This means that not only will your chin no longer store fat, but the introduction of new collagen may induce an additional skin-tightening, anti-aging effect.
What to expect from Kybella and how to prepare
The procedure is relatively simple and usually takes only 15-20 minutes per session. Preparation also isn’t too complicated, but you may want to avoid blood thinners like alcohol and NSAIDs to prevent bruising.
The number of injections per treatment and the number of required treatments depend on your specific needs, so we customize your treatment accordingly. Most people need 2-3 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart to achieve the desired results.
If you live in or near Godfrey, Illinois, we’d love to help you address your double chin and any other cosmetic concern. Give us a call at 618-227-7167 or send us a message to schedule your medical consultation and start your journey to regaining confidence.