Double Chin Treatment Without Surgery: What to Expect From Deoxycholic Acid
Fullness under the chin is often genetic and can be hard to shift with diet and exercise. Deoxycholic acid is an injectable treatment that destroys fat cells in this area without surgery.
How deoxycholic acid treats a double chin
How it works
Deoxycholic acid is a molecule that occurs naturally in the body, where it helps break down dietary fat. When it is injected into the fat under the chin, it destroys fat cells. Once those cells are gone, they can no longer store fat.
Who is a good candidate?
The treatment works best for people with moderate fullness under the chin and reasonably firm skin. If the main concern is loose skin rather than fat, or the fullness is extensive, a different treatment may give a better result. An in-person assessment is the only reliable way to tell.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people need a series of sessions, spaced at least a month apart. The number depends on the amount of fat and the result you are aiming for. Improvement is gradual and becomes more visible with each session.
What is recovery like?
- Swelling: expected and often noticeable, particularly after the first session. It usually settles over one to two weeks.
- Bruising, numbness and firmness: common in the treated area and temporary.
- Planning: because of the swelling, many patients schedule treatment when they have no major events in the following couple of weeks.
Less common side effects, such as a temporarily uneven smile or difficulty swallowing, will be discussed with you before treatment.
Are the results permanent?
The fat cells that are destroyed do not return. Significant weight gain can still affect the area, so maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the result.
Dr. Guo personally performs every deoxycholic acid treatment. Read more on the deoxycholic acid page, or book a consultation to find out whether it is suitable for you.
Related reading: BOTOX vs. Dermal Fillers: What Is the Difference? · Facial balancing in Calgary
FAQ
Is deoxycholic acid treatment painful?
There is some stinging or burning during and shortly after the injections. Measures to improve comfort are discussed at your appointment.
How long does swelling last after treatment?
Swelling is most noticeable in the first few days and usually settles over one to two weeks.
When will I see results?
Results develop gradually over the weeks after each session, and most people need more than one session to reach their goal.
Does the fat come back?
The treated fat cells are permanently destroyed. Significant weight gain can still change the area.