This Way to a Sculpted Chin

By Nasrin Mani, M.D.

Extra fat under the chin, aka the dreaded double chin, presents significant problems for men and women of all ages. Historically, the path to a more sculpted jaw has traveled through the plastic surgeon’s office. Now, we have two non-surgical treatment options that are absolutely worth the time and investment. Here, we discuss the value of Kybella and CoolMini for the treatment of submental fullness.

Kybella

As injectables go, Kybella holds a seat all its own. This product is the only one to date that has been approved by the FDA for the sole purpose of localized fat destruction. It works by delivering deoxycholic acid, a naturally-occurring substance that breaks down fat, into the area beneath the chin. When introduced into the space around fat cells, deoxycholic acid disrupts the cellular structure that holds fat. This results in natural destruction and metabolism. The fat never comes back.

Kybella typically achieves the best results with a series of treatments conducted over several weeks. Multiple injections in the upper neck are needed to deposit the necessary amount of deoxycholic acid for full effect. After injections, the treatment area is likely to swell for at least a few days as the solution is absorbed by fat cells. Results appear gradually over time.

CoolMini

CoolMini treatment is an expansion of the highly-successful CoolSculpting treatment. The same platform that treats the abdominal area is fitted with a smaller handpiece to address the area beneath the chin. This non-invasive procedure doesn’t require any injections nor any downtime. To target fat cells, the CoolMini device pulls tissue into a small space between two cooling panels. This may initially feel strange due to consistent suction. As nerve endings cool, though, all sensation dissipates into numbness.

Like Kybella, CoolMini may need to be performed a few times to achieve the full extent of fat reduction that is possible. Also, like Kybella, CoolMini treatment leads to a natural metabolism of fat. When fat cells are cooled to a specific temperature, the liquid inside of them turns to crystals. This crystallization tricks the body into thinking that the cells are damaged, leading to natural destruction.

Choosing between Kybella or CoolMini double-chin treatment doesn’t have to be difficult. The team in our La Jolla clinic can help you decide which is best for your needs and preferences. To schedule your consultation, call 858-264-1884.