Liposuction or lipectomy of the chin and neck

What are the advantages?

It is very common that with age the chin presents a significant amount of fat which gives it the appearance of a “double chin”. Excision of fat by liposuction or lipectomy can correct the situation and create a significant rejuvenating effect.

 

Is it for me?

The best candidates for chin liposuction or lipectomy are those who do not suffer from obesity and whose excess fat is relatively well located under the chin. In addition, the skin must be of very good quality, that is to say firm and elastic. Although chin liposuction or lipectomy can improve your appearance and self-confidence, it will not necessarily improve your relationships with others. Before opting for this intervention, clarify your expectations and discuss them with Dre Duclos. She will be happy to answer all your questions clearly and precisely and to inform you about the most appropriate treatments for your situation, indicating their advantages and disadvantages.

 

What techniques are used?

Excision of chin fat can be done by liposuction (the fat is sucked out using a fine cannula) or by lipectomy (the fat is removed through a skin incision). In certain cases, a neck lift (or “lift”) may be necessary to remove excess skin and avoid a “chicken neck” type deformity (see section on facial-lift). If the chin is receding or too small, the placement of an implant in the chin may prove useful (see section on chin and cheek implants).
 

What should I expect?

During the consultation, Dr. Duclos will examine your face to ensure that its harmony will not be broken by the modification of the chin. She will assess the quality of the skin, the quantity of fat and its location, the muscles and bones of your face. After assessing your state of health and your expectations, she will present the possible options to you, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. She will explain to you the risks inherent to the procedure, will inform you about its progress, generally under local anesthesia, and will give you pre- and post-operative instructions. Before the procedure, you will need to obtain a chin strap for the day of the operation. The procedure lasts approximately one hour. You will then be under observation until your condition allows you to leave the clinic. A prescription for pain medication, instructions and the date of the next appointment will be given to you before your departure. Plan to have someone drive you home. After the procedure, pain is usually mild and is relieved with acetaminophen or, if necessary, with prescribed pain medication. Usually bruising and swelling is mild. You will need to wear the chin strap constantly for one to two weeks, then ten hours a day for another two weeks.

 

What are the risks?

Liposuction is a safe procedure that causes very rare complications. An infection can occur, as can sagging of the skin and, exceptionally, a reduction or loss of motor function in the lower lip, usually temporary but sometimes permanent. As for lipectomy, it can cause bleeding, infection, poor healing, sagging of the skin and, exceptionally, a reduction or loss of motor function of the lower lip, usually temporary but sometimes permanent. It is sometimes difficult to predict how the skin will react after the procedure. It may happen that a second procedure is necessary to remove excess skin.