A double chin can result from weight gain, but it can also happen due to genetics or aging. If you’re concerned about your double chin, you can do a few things to get rid of it.
A double chin, or submental fat, is a common cosmetic problem. It occurs when a layer of fat forms below your chin, causing your chin to appear doubled. Although a double chin isn’t usually a sign of a health problem, many people consider them unsightly. There are several ways to get rid of a double chin, including diet, exercise, and surgery.
3 Causes of a Double Chin
1. Excess Fat
A double chin can also be caused by genetics. If you have parents or grandparents who had a double chin, chances are you will too. Loose skin can also cause a double chin. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and sags. This can cause a double chin, especially if you have always been thin.
You might not notice when you gain a few extra pounds if you have a larger body type. However, this weight gain can be apparent in your face, especially when you take a selfie. For many people, an extra chin is something they are self-conscious about. It can be difficult to hide an extra chin with clothing, making people feel uncomfortable or embarrassed.
2. Poor Posture
When we spend extended periods looking down at our screens, we are putting unnecessary strain on our necks. This can lead to a condition called text neck, which can cause pain and damage to the spine. To avoid this, it’s essential to take breaks often and to maintain good posture.
Slouching can cause neck pain and also lead to a weakening of the platysma muscle. This muscle connects the neck to the chin, which can cause the skin around the jowls to sag when it weakens.
3. Genetics
The double chin’s likelihood increases if other family members have them. This is due to genetics and means that the trait is passed down through the family. If you carry extra weight, this will also increase your chances of developing a double chin.
There is no specific gene that determines whether or not a person will have a double chin. However, several factors can make a person more likely to develop one. For example, a person’s bone structure may make them more susceptible to developing a double chin. Additionally, a person may be more likely to gain weight, have thinner or less elastic skin, or store fat around their chin.
How KYBELLA ® and CoolSculpting ® Can Fix a Double Chin
KYBELLA ® is an injectable treatment designed to target the fat cells that cause the appearance of a double chin. The active ingredient works to destroy these cells, resulting in a smoother, more contoured jawline.
The active ingredient is a synthetic deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps decompose and absorb dietary fat. KYBELLA ® kills fat cells when injected into the fat beneath the chin, reducing fullness under the chin. Once these cells are destroyed, they can no longer store or accumulate fat. Once you reach your desired aesthetic goal, further treatment is not expected. It may be used for even better results with CoolSculpting ®.
CoolSculpting ® is an innovative way to contour your body by freezing unwanted fat away with no surgery or little to no downtime. CoolSculpting® can reduce stubborn fat under the chin, under the jawline areas, thigh, abdomen and flank, along with bra fat, back fat, underneath the buttocks (also known as banana roll) and upper arm. CoolSculpting® is the treatment doctors use most for nonsurgical fat reduction.
At Melinda Silva, MD, we offer discount packages when Kybella ® and Coolsculpting ® are used together to minimize double chin and permanently remove fat in the neck area. We are a San Diego-based anti-aging and wellness medical spa in Chula Vista specializing in bioidentical hormones, weight loss, and CoolSculpting. If you want to get rid of your double chin, our CoolSculpting clinic in San Diego will take care of you! Get in touch with us to schedule a consultation!
