Can Losing Weight Reduce a Double Chin?

Double Chin Treatment, West Malling, Kent

We typically associate a double chin with weight gain, and while this maybe true, there are other factors that cause it too. Double chin is a term describing excess fullness under the chin. It’s caused by excess fat under the chin in one of two distinct anatomical compartments.

Even more so than your weight, double chins are primarily hereditary. That means that if your parents had a double chin, it’s likely that you’ll develop one too as you age. Someone with a short neck, a weak chin or a low positioned voice-box is more likely to develop a double chin. But the good news is that there are ways to get rid of it. In this blog, we will explore the causes of a double chin, the impact of weight loss, and the various treatments available, including CoolSculpting, fat dissolving injections, and Emerald laser therapy.

What is a Double Chin?

Our bodies are constantly seeking new areas to deposit fat, and a preferred location is the upper front portion of the neck, just beneath the jawline, known scientifically as ‘submental fat.’ When excessive fat accumulates here, and the skin lacks the elasticity to support it against gravity’s pull, it may appear as if you’ve developed a second chin when looking in the mirror. This can progress, potentially leading to the appearance of a triple or even quadruple chin. Therefore, as you continue reading, keep in mind the crucial roles that both fat accumulation and skin elasticity play in this context.

What Causes a Double Chin?

The specific areas where the body stores fat can differ widely from person to person, meaning that a double chin can sometimes appear even in those who aren’t generally overweight.

As we age, the likelihood and visibility of double chins tend to increase, largely because our skin’s elasticity diminishes over time. Up until around the age of 30, our bodies are quite efficient at maintaining levels of collagen and elastin, which keep our skin firm and elastic. After this point, however, the production of these vital proteins declines sharply, reducing the skin’s ability to bounce back and leaving gravity to exert its influence, pulling the skin downward.

For the majority, the appearance of a double chin results from a combination of excess fat and decreasing skin elasticity, with fat typically being the primary factor. Nonetheless, it’s also possible for double chins to develop purely due to loss of skin elasticity, especially in older age, even in the absence of significant fat deposits.

Can Weight Loss Improve a Double Chin?

Yes, weight loss can have a significant impact on reducing the appearance of a double chin, especially if the extra fat is due to weight gain. When you lose weight, your body burns fat for energy from various parts, including the neck and chin area. However, the extent to which weight loss affects your double chin depends on several factors, including the cause of the double chin and your skin’s elasticity.

If the double chin is primarily due to excess fat and not genetics or loose skin, reducing your overall body fat through a healthy diet and regular exercise may significantly improve its appearance. However, if your double chin is due to genetics or ageing, weight loss might not have as pronounced an effect.

Treatments for a Double Chin

If you’re finding that the stubborn fat beneath your chin just won’t budge, rest assured, there are a variety of treatments available to help address this issue…

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting for the chin is a non-invasive fat reduction technique that uses cold temperatures to freeze and eliminate fat cells in the targeted area. The procedure is relatively quick, requires no surgery, and has minimal downtime. Results can be seen in as little as one to two sessions, although it may take a few months to fully realise the effects as the body naturally processes and removes the dead fat cells.

Fat Dissolving Injections

Belkyra is a popular fat dissolving injection used to treat double chins. It’s injected into the subcutaneous tissue directly into fatty deposits. Through a localised reaction, it literally breaks open fat (or adipose) cells. This causes a transient stinging for about two minutes, and then, over the course of six to eight weeks, the fat cells will get cleared by the body that results in the slimmer overall contour. Multiple treatments are usually necessary for optimal results.

Emerald Laser

The Emerald laser is a non-invasive laser treatment designed to target and reduce fat without damaging the surrounding tissues. It works by using a specific wavelength of light to penetrate the skin and target fat cells, causing them to temporarily open pores and release their contents, which are then naturally processed and eliminated by the body. This treatment can be used on various parts of the body, including the chin area, and is suitable for individuals looking for a painless option with no downtime.

In summary…

A double chin can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness for many, but there are several ways to address it, from lifestyle changes and weight loss to advanced treatments like CoolSculpting, fat dissolving injections, and Emerald laser therapy. The best approach depends on the underlying cause of the double chin, your overall health, and your personal preferences. It’s always recommended to consult with a specialist aesthetic healthcare practitioner to discuss the most appropriate treatment options for your specific situation. 

If you’d like to learn more about the options for a reducing a double chin, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.