Chin Liposuction/Submental Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to address excess fat beneath the chin and along the upper neck. For many people, this area can be resistant to changes in diet or exercise. Dr Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon that offers Submental Liposuction for those wanting to alter the appearance of the jawline, reduce fullness and increase definition. He offers consulting in both Melbourne and Launceston and performs surgery in accredited hospitals in Melbourne. For those considering surgery, he has compiled a list of Chin Liposuction FAQs (frequently asked questions) to provide clear, educational information to help individuals determine whether the procedure may be suitable for them.
If you’re considering this procedure, the FAQ guide below covers typical questions patients ask, ranging from general information to recovery, long-term expectations, costs and more.
Chin Liposuction, medically known as Submental Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat from under the chin and upper neck using a small cannula. This helps reduce fullness below the chin and alter the appearance of the jawline.
Chin Liposuction can change the overall appearance of the lower face by reducing fullness beneath the chin and along the jawline. However, it does not alter the underlying bone structure or change features such as the chin position or jaw size. Any change comes from reducing volume in the targeted area rather than reshaping the face itself.
The degree of change varies between individuals and depends on factors such as fat distribution, skin quality and face shape. Dr Kode discusses these considerations during consultation so patients have a clear understanding of what the procedure can realistically achieve
There is no specific age that determines whether someone is a suitable candidate for Chin Liposuction. People who seek this procedure range from those in their late 20s to their 60s. Suitability depends far more on individual anatomy than age. You may be a suitable candidate if:
A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, like Dr Gary Kode allows for an assessment of your chin, jawline, neck, and overall facial proportions to determine whether this procedure may be suitable for you or whether another approach may be more appropriate.
Chin fat can develop for several different reasons. It often relates to multiple factors rather than a single cause. The following can contribute to the appearance of excess chin fat.
Chin Liposuction is not suitable for everyone. While the procedure can address excess fat beneath the chin, it is not a suitable option for individuals whose concerns are related to factors other than fat volume.
People who may not be suitable candidates include:
Your suitability will be assessed during consultation.
Submental fullness is the term used to describe the buildup of fat beneath the chin, often referred to as a “double chin.” This fullness can develop for several reasons, including genetics, age-related changes, fat distribution, or weight fluctuations.
The area can also be influenced by underlying anatomy, such as the structure of the jawline or neck.
Dr Kode typically performs Chin Liposuction while the patient is under general anaesthesia. In select situations, local anaesthesia with sedation may be appropriate, depending on the individual circumstances, the complexity of the procedure and Dr Kode’s professional opinion.
How Do I Prepare for Chin Liposuction?
Preparing for Chin Liposuction involves several steps to support both the procedure and recovery. While each person receives individualised instructions during their consultation, the following points outline how patients can prepare for surgery:
1. Attend a thorough consultation
2. Follow pre-operative medical guidelines
3. Adjust medications if advised
4. Stop smoking and limit alcohol
5. Arrange transport and support
6. Organise recovery supplies
7. Plan for time off work and activities
8. Follow all fasting instructions
9. Prepare your home for recovery
10. Ask any final questions during your pre-surgery call or review
Chin Liposuction and Neck Lift surgery address different anatomical concerns. Some patients may be suited to one or the other depending on their goals, skin characteristics and overall facial structure.
Chin Liposuction focuses on removing excess fat beneath the chin to reduce fullness. Whereas, a Neck Lift is a more extensive procedure that addresses concerns related to excess skin, changes in muscle position, or more significant structural concerns through the lower face and neck. It may involve tightening underlying tissues and removing excess skin.
Which Option Is More Suitable?
The choice between Chin Liposuction and a Neck Lift depends on factors such as skin quality, the amount of fat present, and whether excess skin is contributing to concerns. Chin liposuction works on fat alone, while a Neck Lift addresses both the deeper tissues and the skin.
Dr Kode will assess your anatomy during a consultation and discuss what approaches may be appropriate based on your individual needs and goals.
Chin Liposuction can be performed on its own or alongside other procedures for a more comprehensive result. Doing so may help address multiple concerns in a single operation and may mean only one recovery period rather than several separate ones. Procedures that may be performed alongside Chin Liposuction include, Neck Lift, Facelift or Fat Transfer.
Whether additional procedures are suitable depends on factors such as anatomy, skin quality, goals, and overall health. During a consultation, Dr Gary Kode will assess these factors and explain which options may or may not be appropriate for your situation.
No. You will not be able to drive yourself home after surgery. Anaesthesia and sedation affect alertness. You must arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.
For individuals not suitable, or not ready for surgery, non-surgical options may include: Weight management strategies, skin tightening or fat dissolving treatments (results vary) and cosmetic options such as strategic makeup or styling. However, these alternatives do not remove fat.
Patients can expect to experience swelling, tightness, bruising and mild discomfort after surgery. This is generally managed with over the counter and prescribed medication.
Applying ice packs during the first 24–48 hours can help reduce swelling and provide additional comfort.
To support recovery and optimise outcomes, some surgeons may recommend a specially fitted support garment. However, Dr Kode does not use support garments after Chin Liposuction.
Patients are usually advised to rest, avoid strenuous activity, and keep the head elevated during the initial recovery period. Any concerns about pain, swelling, or unusual changes should be discussed with Dr Kode promptly.
If your surgeon recommends wearing a support strap after surgery, it is generally recommended to wear it continuously for the first few days and then reduce to nightly use for several weeks. Dr Kode does not use support garments after Chin Liposuction.
Swelling is most noticeable in the first 1–2 weeks and gradually settles over several weeks. Residual firmness and swelling can take several months to dissipate and for the final result to become apparent.
After Chin Liposuction, there are several activities and behaviours patients are generally advised to avoid to support healing and optimise results, including:
Patients should diligently follow all post-operative instructions provided by their surgeon and contact their surgical team if they notice any unusual swelling, redness, or pain.
Temporary swelling, bruising, and the use of a chin strap can be visible in the early stages. This settles as healing progresses.
Fat cells removed during the procedure do not grow back. Long-lasting results are possible as long as weight remains stable, although the ageing process will continue over time.
Chin Liposuction removes fat from beneath the chin and along the jawline, but it does not tighten the skin. Whether excess skin develops after the procedure depends on several factors, including age, skin quality, collagen levels, genetics and the amount of fat removed.
Some people find that their skin firms as swelling settles, while others may notice lingering laxity. This does not necessarily mean the procedure was unsuccessful.
For people who have significant laxity before surgery, or whose skin is less elastic, an additional procedure such as a Neck Lift may be recommended to address excess skin.
Dr Kode assesses these factors during consultation and provides personalised guidance based on anatomy and overall goals.
Possible downsides may include:
Risks may include infection, asymmetry, asymmetry, bleeding, fluid accumulation, delayed healing, numbness, or reactions to anaesthesia.
Dr Kode will thoroughly explain the potential risks and help you decide whether the procedure aligns with your needs and expectations. For more information visit our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery Page.
The cost of Chin Liposuction can vary based on several factors, including;
Because each case is personalised, a detailed quote is provided after consultation.
Chin Liposuction is usually considered a cosmetic procedure and is not typically eligible for a Medicare item number. This means that patients will need to cover the total cost of surgery themselves.
Private health insurance generally does not cover cosmetic procedures or the hospital fees associated with them, unless the procedure is deemed medically necessary and attracts a Medicare item number, which Chin Liposuction typically does not.
Look for:
This information is general only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Suitability, risks and outcomes vary between individuals. Patients should seek a professional consultation with a qualified surgeon for tailored guidance.