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Chin Liposuction

Submental Liposuction · Double Chin Contouring

Chin liposuction removes a localised pocket of fat under the chin and along the jawline, defining the transition between the face and the neck. It is a contouring procedure, not a treatment for loose neck skin or weight loss.

Chin Liposuction
Duration45–90 minutes
AnaesthesiaLocal with sedation, or general
Hospital stayDay case
Back to work3–7 days

Who this procedure suits

This procedure treats a fullness under the chin that persists despite a stable weight, softening the jawline and blurring the angle between chin and neck. It works best when the skin still has good elasticity, because removing fat alone does not tighten loose skin.

A good candidate if

  • Fullness under the chin that has not responded to diet and exercise
  • A jawline that looks undefined despite a stable weight
  • Good skin elasticity in the neck and under the chin
  • Realistic expectations about what contouring the area can change

Not suitable if

  • Significant loose or hanging neck skin, which needs a lifting procedure
  • Fullness caused mainly by enlarged salivary glands or muscle rather than fat
  • Untreated thyroid disease or an undiagnosed neck lump
  • Active infection or skin condition in the treatment area

How the procedure is performed

Consultation

Dr Cardinali examines the area, distinguishes fat from muscle and glandular fullness, and assesses your skin elasticity to confirm liposuction alone will give a good result.

Preparation

Routine pre-operative checks. You will be advised on stopping smoking and certain medications, and asked to arrange someone to drive you home.

Surgery

Through one or two very small incisions hidden under the chin, a fine cannula removes fat in an even layer. Where medically appropriate, a skin-tightening technology may be added. A supportive chin strap is fitted at the end.

Follow-up

We review the area within the first week and again as swelling settles over the following weeks and months.

Chin Liposuction

Recovery — what actually happens

Day 1-3Swelling and mild bruising under the chin are expected. The support garment is worn continuously and discomfort is managed with simple pain relief.
Week 1Sutures are checked or removed. Most people return to desk-based work within this period; swelling is still visible.
Week 2-4Swelling reduces noticeably. Garment use is reduced as advised and light exercise can gradually resume.
Month 2-3The jawline contour becomes clearer as residual swelling resolves. Normal activity is usually fully resumed.
Month 6-12The result stabilises. Small scars under the chin continue to fade and are typically very difficult to see.

Honest medicine — the risks

Every surgical procedure carries potential risks. Risks vary with the procedure and your health, and the surgeon will discuss them with you along with the measures used to reduce them:

ScarringIncisions are tiny and hidden under the chin, but as with any surgery a small scar remains
InfectionSterile technique and, when indicated, antibiotics reduce this risk; the area is monitored at follow-up
Delayed wound healingCareful tissue handling and wound care support normal healing, particularly in smokers
Contour irregularity or asymmetryEven, layered fat removal and careful assessment reduce this, though minor differences between the two sides can occur
Temporary numbness or altered sensationUsually settles as small nerves recover, though it can occasionally persist
Fluid collection (seroma)The support garment reduces accumulation; fluid can be aspirated in clinic if needed
Skin laxity becoming more visibleAssessed before surgery; if elasticity is poor, a lifting procedure is advised instead

Frequently asked questions

Will chin liposuction tighten my neck skin?

No. It removes fat. If the skin is already loose, removing fat alone can make laxity more visible, which is why skin elasticity is assessed carefully before surgery.

Is the result permanent?

The fat cells removed do not return, but significant weight gain afterwards can still change the area.

Will the scars be visible?

The incisions are only a few millimetres and are placed under the chin, where they are very difficult to see once healed.

Can it be combined with other procedures?

Yes, when clinically appropriate it is often combined with facial or neck procedures. Dr Roseli will advise what suits your case at consultation.

When will I see the final contour?

Most swelling settles within a few weeks, but the definitive jawline definition is usually apparent after a few months.

Is this procedure right for you?

The only correct answer comes from a clinical examination. Book a consultation — in person, or by video if you are outside the UAE.

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