Double Chin Treatment in Oakville, Ontario

Overview

Whether it develops gradually or you’ve always felt like you have a double chin, it can impact your self-confidence. Having extra fat, fullness, or loose skin under the chin can soften the jawline and make the neck look heavier. It may make you appear older or heavier than you are. A double chin can even affect how you feel about your appearance in profile photos or on video calls. 

If you’re wondering how to get rid of a double chin, the first thing to understand is that this condition is common and is not simply a matter of willpower. While weight can play a role, a double chin can have many causes, including genetics, facial structure, skin changes, and fat distribution. 

At ICLS, we understand these concerns and offer various solutions for patients from Toronto, Mississauga, and across the GTA. Under the care of Dr. Julie Khanna, treatment plans combine surgical and non-surgical options when appropriate. The goal is always to achieve balanced, natural-looking results.

What Is a Double Chin?

A double chin refers to fullness under the chin that reduces definition between the jawline and the neck. This area is known as the submental region. 

A double chin does not look the same on everyone. In some individuals, it appears as a soft, pocket-like area of fat. In others, loose skin or relaxed neck muscles play a larger role. Many patients have more than one contributing factor and require a combination of solutions.

Understanding Submental Fullness

Submental fat is fat that sits under the chin. It may feel soft or firm, depending on depth and skin quality. Patients often describe this area as fat under the chin, under-chin fat, or neck fat. Even a small amount can noticeably soften the jawline.

A double chin is not always caused by fat alone. In many cases, it’s a combination of submental fat, loose skin, and sometimes changes in the neck muscles or chin structure. That’s why some people see a double chin even when there isn’t much fat to pinch under the skin.

Double Chin vs. Sagging Neck vs. Weak Chin

Aside from fat, other issues can contribute to the appearance of a double chin. In some cases, loose skin is the primary contributor. In others, a naturally short or recessed chin makes fullness more visible. Neck muscle banding can also be a factor.

Because there can be many different reasons for a double chin, a thorough assessment is crucial. For some patients, a facelift provides noticeable improvement. For others, a chin enhancement or a mini neck lift may be a more suitable option.

What Causes a Double Chin?

You can have a double chin even when your weight is stable. You can also develop one as you age. The area changes with time. It doesn’t always reflect a change in health.

Genetics and Facial Anatomy

Genetics strongly influence where the body stores fat. Some people naturally carry more fat in the submental area. Others have a smaller chin or shorter jawline, which makes any fullness under the chin more obvious. You can be slim and still have a double chin due to anatomical factors alone.

Chin projection also matters. When the chin sits further back, the neck may look less defined. Fullness under the chin becomes more noticeable. As such, some patients benefit from a plan that accounts for both chin structure and fat reduction.

Aging and Skin Laxity

As we age, collagen levels decline, and skin becomes looser. The neck muscles can also relax, leading to visible bands in the neck. Together, these changes allow tissue to settle lower under the chin, contributing to under-chin fullness and reduced jawline definition.

Over time, this process can create a softer transition between the chin and neck. Mild jowling may also develop, further affecting the definition of the lower face.

Weight Changes and Fat Distribution

Weight gain can increase chin fat, but weight loss does not always eliminate it. Understandably, people exploring how to lose a double chin or how to lose chin fat can feel discouraged when the chin doesn’t change, even as other areas do.

Additionally, it’s not possible to “spot reduce” fat in any area. Often, genetic factors determine how and where fat loss occurs. While some people may lose fat from the face immediately, others may retain fat in the submental area indefinitely. 

Posture and “Tech Neck”

While posture alone rarely causes a double chin, it can make a double chin look more noticeable. Looking down at screens can visually shorten the neck. It can also push soft tissue forward. 

Improving posture can help the neck look longer in photos. It can also reduce strain. But it won’t remove submental fat or tighten loose skin on its own.

When Jowls and the Lower Face Play a Role

Some patients notice both a double chin and heaviness or jowls in the jawline. In such cases, double chin treatment may be part of a more comprehensive plan for the lower face.

Can You Get Rid of a Double Chin Naturally?

If you’re looking up “how to get rid of chin fat” or “how to get rid of under-chin fat,” you might come across lifestyle approaches. While it’s reasonable to consider natural interventions first, it’s also essential to understand their limitations.

The Role of Healthy Lifestyle and Weight Management

Gradual weight loss can reduce overall fat, including some fat under the chin. However, genetics often dictate where fat remains. Even at a healthy weight, submental fat may persist.

It’s normal to want a quick fix when exploring how to get rid of a double chin fast. However, even natural changes take time. Some double chins do not respond to a healthy diet and exercise, or not enough to make a visual difference.

Do Double Chin Exercises Work?

You might have come across tips for double chin exercises. These may improve posture and muscle awareness. They may help you hold your head and neck differently. However, evidence for meaningful fat loss is limited. While generally safe to try, exercises do not replace treatments designed to reduce or remove chin fat.

Posture and Everyday Habits

Good posture and ergonomics can help the neck appear longer. These habits support overall appearance. However, they do not remove fat or tighten loose skin on their own.

If you’ve tried natural approaches and still wonder how to get rid of a double chin naturally, professional treatment may be the next step. When at-home efforts aren’t enough, many people explore non-surgical and surgical options that directly target fat and skin under the chin.

How To Get Rid of a Double Chin: Treatment Options at ICLS

When patients ask how to get rid of a double chin, the answer depends on what’s causing the fullness. Fat, loose skin, muscle changes, and facial structure can all play a role. At ICLS, Dr. Khanna tailors treatment plans to address the underlying cause, aiming for a natural-looking contour that doesn’t look “done.”

In-Clinic Treatment Options at ICLS

For in-clinic treatment, options range from subtle skin tightening to more definitive surgical reshaping. Patients seeking the best treatment for a double chin often find surgery delivers the most reliable results. Below are the most common double chin treatments used to create definition under the chin and along the jawline.

Chin and Neck Liposuction

Chin and neck liposuction uses small incisions to remove submental fat from under the chin. It works best for patients whose primary concern is excess chin fat and who still have good skin quality.

Under-chin liposuction can be combined with other facial procedures to achieve a more balanced overall facial appearance. After healing from chin lipo, patients typically see a more defined jawline and a more defined neck angle. There’s also less downtime than larger neck surgeries.

Mini Neck Lift for Loose Skin and Neck Bands

A mini neck lift addresses loose skin and neck muscle banding. It may be combined with liposuction when both fat and laxity are present. When skin laxity is the main concern, this option often provides better results than fat removal alone.

When Double Chin Treatment Is Part of a Broader Plan

Some patients also have jowls, a heavier lower face, or a structurally weak chin. In such cases, double chin plastic surgery may be part of a broader lower-face and neck rejuvenation plan. Procedures such as a neck lift, neck lift surgery, chin tuck surgery, facelift, or chin enhancement may be included to create better overall balance.

Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Approaches: What Actually Works?

​​When skin laxity is mild and skin quality is good, some patients respond to non-surgical skin tightening methods. Procedures like ultrasound-based skin tightening can gently firm and refine the area under the chin. However, they are not designed for fat removal and are most effective for early changes.

When there is significant fat, loose skin, or muscle banding, procedures such as a mini neck lift, chin or neck liposuction, or other surgical skin-tightening techniques may be most appropriate. These can provide more dramatic, longer-lasting reshaping of the neck and jawline than non-surgical methods.

In any case, Dr. Khanna recommends the least invasive method of double chin reduction that will realistically meet a patient’s goals. Results focus on achieving a fresher version of the patient rather than an obviously “surgical” outcome.

What To Expect From Treatment and Recovery

Understanding the process helps patients from Toronto, Oakville, and the GTA feel confident moving forward. Here’s what to expect from your first visit through recovery and beyond.

Your Consultation at ICLS in Oakville

Your consultation includes a complete assessment of the face and neck. Your surgeon will evaluate your skin quality, fat distribution, muscle bands, chin, and jawline structure.

We will also discuss your medical history, lifestyle, and goals. Some patients want a subtle refinement. Others want a more defined jawline. You should leave this visit knowing what’s realistically achievable with non-surgical versus surgical options.

During the Procedure

Non-surgical treatments involve skin tightening under the chin. Surgical procedures may include liposuction or a mini neck lift under general or local anesthesia. Your surgeon will explain what each option entails, so you feel informed before proceeding.

Recovery, Downtime, and Aftercare

Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and improve gradually. A compression garment  (when recommended), proper aftercare, and follow-up visits support healing and results.

The timeline varies. Some patients feel presentable in a week or two. Others take longer for swelling to subside fully. You may also see small changes week by week as the area heals and definition improves.

Results and Longevity

Results develop over weeks to months as swelling decreases. Aging continues, but surgical treatment often provides long-lasting structural improvements. Maintaining a stable weight, using sun protection, and following a skincare routine are key to lasting results.

Why Choose ICLS for Double Chin Concerns?

ICLS offers combined dermatology and plastic surgery expertise in an accredited Oakville surgical centre. Dr. Khanna has extensive experience reshaping the neck and jawline using both surgical and non-surgical techniques. 

Patients from Toronto, Mississauga, and across the GTA choose ICLS for natural-looking results that don’t appear overdone. Patients also travel from Hamilton and surrounding areas for neck and jawline expertise.

If you’re looking for a double chin treatment that makes a noticeable difference without dramatically altering your appearance, schedule a consultation. Our team can help you explore your options and find the best solution for your needs.

Double Chin FAQs

Sometimes, mild fullness can change with weight loss, but many double chins persist due to genetic or anatomical factors.

Exercises may improve posture, but do not remove fat or tighten loose skin. Many people move from exercises to in-clinic options.

Liposuction and mini neck lift surgery offer the most effective results when fat or skin laxity is the underlying cause.

When performed by an experienced surgeon, it is considered safe for suitable candidates. Your consultation helps confirm candidacy.

Skin tightening may help with mild laxity. However, surgery offers stronger, longer-lasting results when fat or loose skin is a significant concern.

Downtime varies depending on the procedure and the individual. Most patients experience swelling and bruising that gradually improves over the first few weeks. Your surgeon will explain what to expect based on your treatment plan and lifestyle.

dr. khanna headshot

Our Doctor

Dr. Julie Khanna

MD, FRCSC

As one of Canada’s leading cosmetic plastic surgeons for over 30 years, Dr. Khanna approaches every procedure with the goal of creating results that feel natural, balanced, and uniquely your own. 
Supported by an accredited, state-of-the-art facility and a team she’s personally trained, Dr. Khanna embodies the ICLS Advantage: experience, innovation, and care that always put the patient first.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons member at ICLS Plastic Surgery
Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons member at ICLS Plastic Surgery
Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons member logo for ICLS Plastic Surgery
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada fellow at ICLS Plastic Surgery
The Aesthetic Society member logo for ICLS Plastic Surgery specialists
American Board of Plastic Surgery certified surgeon at ICLS Plastic Surgery

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