Submental Liposuction in Houston, TX
A double chin (submental fullness) is a common aesthetic concern that can be difficult to substantially improve through diet and exercise, but hope exists. Submental liposuction offers a safe and effective solution for individuals looking to achieve a more sculpted and defined jawline.
By targeting localized fat accumulation, submental liposuction can improve the contour and definition of the jawline, creating a more sculpted and youthful appearance. With its minimally invasive approach and customizable results, submental liposuction can help you enhance your facial profile and boost your confidence.
Why Choose Patronella True Form® Plastic Surgery?
Dr. Patronella is a highly respected and board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston, Texas. He is not only one of the country’s top plastic surgeons; his compassion and commitment to personalized, top-level care make him uniquely qualified. His extensive knowledge and understanding of anatomy led Dr. Patronella to create proprietary True Form Plastic Surgery® techniques that improve the recovery experience and improve results.
Call our Houston plastic surgery practice today at (713) 575-1996 to schedule your submental liposuction consultation.
Am I a Candidate for Submental Liposuction?
Individuals with excess fat deposits beneath the chin that detract from the definition and, ultimately, facial appearance are ideal candidates for submental liposuction.
Candidates should be non-smokers in good overall health at a stable weight with realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes. You should also be committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle following surgery.
How Is Submental Liposuction Performed?
Submental liposuction is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference and our surgeon’s recommendation.
Small incisions are made either beneath the chin or behind the ears to insert the cannula (a thin, hollow tube) and access the submental fat. Dr. Patronella uses the cannula to carefully remove excess fat from the submental region through a gentle suctioning process.
Once the desired amount of fat has been removed, he will sculpt and contour the remaining tissue to achieve a smooth and natural-looking result. Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures, and a compression garment may be applied to the chin and neck area to support the healing process and minimize swelling.
What Procedures Are Commonly Combined With Submental Liposuction?
Combining any cosmetic facial surgery or non-surgical treatment with submental liposuction may be beneficial. Some of the more commonly combined procedures include:
Neck Lift
A neck lift can be an excellent procedure to combine with submental liposuction for those with a double chin, loose neck skin, or vertical banding.
Facial Fat Transfer
Facial fat transfer involves removing fat from body areas with sufficient unwanted fat to restore volume and re-contour the cheek area. It can also be used as a filler to plump the lips and smooth wrinkles.
Cosmetic Injectables
Dermal fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic are used to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles or restore lost volume.
Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation
Treatments such as laser resurfacing and chemical peels offer non-surgical facial rejuvenation by improving tone and texture. These treatments can address rosacea, hyperpigmentation, acne and acne scars, oily skin, dry skin, or highly sensitive skin after your recovery from submental liposuction is complete.
How Long Is Recovery After Submental Liposuction?
Following submental liposuction, you may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the chin and neck area. These symptoms typically subside within a few days to weeks, and over-the-counter pain medication can help manage this temporary discomfort.
For the first week after surgery, avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting to allow for optimal healing. Light walking and gentle movements are encouraged to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Be sure to attend follow-up appointments with Dr. Patronella to monitor your healing progress, remove sutures if necessary, and address any concerns or questions you might have.
When Will I See My Submental Liposuction Results?
While initial improvements may be visible shortly after surgery, final results become more apparent as swelling subsides and the tissues fully take their new shape. You can expect a more defined jawline and enhanced facial profile, with results gradually becoming evident. Your final results should be clearly visible within three to six months after surgery.
Submental liposuction offers a minimally invasive solution with dramatic results, such as:
- Improved definition of the jawline and a more aesthetically pleasing facial profile
- A boost of self-confidence
Submental liposuction can be tailored to each patient’s individual needs and desired outcomes, allowing for personalized treatment plans and natural-looking results.
Submental Liposuction With a Top Houston, TX Plastic Surgeon
If you’re ready to say goodbye to your double chin and hello to a more refined appearance, call (713) 575-1996 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Christopher K. Patronella and explore your options for submental liposuction.
Submental Liposuction FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How long does submental liposuction take to perform?
The duration of this procedure varies depending on the extent of fat removal and any additional procedures performed. On average, it typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete.
What type of anesthesia is used for submental liposuction?
Submental liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation. Your surgeon will discuss the anesthesia options with you during the pre-operative consultation.
Is submental liposuction a painful procedure?
Submental liposuction is generally well-tolerated by patients and is associated with minimal discomfort. Any discomfort experienced during the procedure is usually managed with local anesthesia and sedation. Patients may experience some soreness and swelling in the treated area following surgery, but this can be managed with pain medication and typically resolves within a few days.
What is recovery like after submental liposuction?
There may be temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the chin and neck area during recovery after submental liposuction. Patients are typically advised to wear a compression garment to support the healing process and minimize swelling. Most individuals can resume normal activities within a week after surgery, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks.
Are there any risks or complications associated with submental liposuction?
Like any surgical procedure, submental liposuction carries some risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, hematoma formation, asymmetry, nerve injury, and skin irregularities. However, these risks are relatively rare when the procedure is performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited facility.
Will I have visible scars after submental liposuction?
The incisions for submental liposuction are typically small and strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. Scars may be barely noticeable and tend to fade with time, especially when proper wound care and scar management techniques are followed.
How long do the results of submental liposuction last?
The results of submental liposuction are long-lasting, provided that patients maintain a stable weight and adopt a healthy lifestyle following surgery. While fat cells removed during liposuction are permanently eliminated, changes in weight or aging can affect the long-term results. However, with proper maintenance, patients can enjoy a more sculpted and defined jawline for many years.
