8-West Cosmetic Surgery

About the Procedure

Some people are frustrated by what is commonly referred to as a double chin. There are some common features that contribute to the appearance of a double chin. Patients may have a combination of the following:

1. a lax plastisma muscle
2. excess fat
3. a recessive chin

Patients with any combination of these features may be candidates for a double chin surgery.

How the Procedure Is Performed

An incision is placed just underneath the chin where it is easily hidden.  The skin of the neck is elevated to expose the underlying fat.  If there is extra fat, it is removed either directly or with liposuction.  If the patient has a lax platisma muscle, it is tightly bound with sutures.  This allows for significant structural support for the neck and a defined neck angle.  If the patient’s chin is recessive, a chin implant is used to create a more prominent chin area. The incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches. A compression garment must then be worn diligently for several weeks after the surgery.

Benefits of the Surgery

The physical benefits of double chin surgery are:

• Definition of the neck angle
• Reduction of double chin
• Reduced neck fullness

Are You a Good Candidate

Double chin surgery is ideal for people of all ages who are frustrated with the appearance of a double chin. This surgery is not appropriate for patients who are looking for an improvement in the jowls, jaw line and cheek area. These patients may be candidates for facelift surgery.

Physical Features

You may be a candidate for this surgery if you have any of the following physical features:

• Thick neck
• Double chin
• Poor neck angle

General Health

You may be a candidate for this surgery if you are in general, in good health:

• You have normal blood pressure
• You are not taking blood thinners, or your physician could safely recommend that you discontinue them for 2 weeks

Ideal Candidates for Cosmetic Surgery

Not everyone is a candidate for cosmetic surgery. Ideal candidates for cosmetic surgery demonstrate the following characteristics:

1. Internally motivated to have cosmetic surgery
2. Have realistic expectations
3. Comprehend the potential risks and complications
4. Motivated to follow pre and post operative instructions
5. Can comfortably afford the cost of cosmetic surgery

Recovery

Most patients describe the recovery period from double chin surgery to be quite easy. Swelling and bruising is at its worst on day three following surgery, and usually subsides one to two weeks following surgery. Some patients experience no bruising at all. Everyone heals differently. The following information will give you a sense for what kinds of activities are safe during the recovery period.

Time Off Work

• Most people who work in the public eye take one week off work
• One week after surgery, some people have perceptible swelling and bruising, which can last for another week or so – these signs are easily covered with makeup
• At the one week mark, the incision is still quite red and raised and can be somewhat camouflaged with makeup or by wearing a high necked shirt
• People who work from home are typically feeling good and are able to be back at their desks two days after surgery

Back to Normal Activities

• You can resume normal activities, such as light household work and taking a gentle stroll, the day after surgery
• You can resume light fitness activities, such as jogging or yoga, one week after surgery
• You can resume vigorous fitness activities, such heavy weight training or high impact cardio, two weeks after surgery
• You should avoid bending over and lifting heavy objects for two weeks after surgery

Restaurant Ready

• You will typically feel “restaurant ready”, meaning that you would feel comfortable meeting up with friends – one week after surgery, however your incisions will still be red and raised at this time

Complete Recovery

• While you will be looking and feeling great at the two week mark, your neck is still healing and the complete healing process can take up to three months
• You may still have some mild swelling that can persist for up to six weeks

Risks & Complications

All surgeries have associated risks. Dr. Buonassisi will review the risks and benefits of the surgery in detail during your surgical consult. In general, complications of double chin surgery, while not expected, include:

• Risk of infection
• Risk of bleeding
• Risk of poor wound healing
• Risk of patient dissatisfaction with cosmetic result

Combination Facial Rejuvenation Procedures

Vancouver double chin surgery is often combined with other facial rejuvenation surgeries. Some people choose to have their puffy eyelids treated at the same time, with upper or lower eyelid surgery.

What Vancouver Facelift or Necklift Procedure is Right for You?

While the information on this site is extensive, it is not designed the replace the skill and expertise of a board certified facial plastic surgeon. Use the information to help you explore the possibilities and educate yourself about the typical recovery period of cosmetic surgery. While this site provides general information about cosmetic surgery as it related to the average person, it cannot be used as a tool for people to decide which surgery is best for them. Only a thorough consultation with a board certified facial plastic surgeon can provide the specific information they require to make an informed decision about surgery. To find out which surgery is most appropriate for you, please Request a Consult.

Next Steps

Ready to Discuss Your Needs with Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Thomas Buonassisi? Schedule a Consult

If you are ready to book a consult, please Request a Consult. If you would like to learn more about what to expect during a surgical consult, please go here.

Not Sure You Are a Candidate? Use our Virtual Consult Form

Not everybody is a candidate for cosmetic surgery. To save time, we have launched a Virtual Consultation tool. Upload your photos, provide some information about what you would like to change, and we will provide a complementary evaluation. Find out more about the Virtual Consultation here.