We’ve all dealt with the effects of fat settling in parts of our bodies as we age, stubbornly refusing to be moved. Thankfully, this fat mostly develops in discreet places where we can cover it up with clothing if it bothers us. But what if fat starts forming under your chin, making it look like you have a large, overly round face? This fat is called submental fat, and it can be a very frustrating thing. So, what causes submental fat, and how can you get rid of it?
What Causes Submental Fat?
- Genes: Your genetics are usually the cause of submental fat. Think of genetics as a blueprint for where your body might store fat.
- Posture: Something as simple as the way you hold your head can weaken your neck muscles and make it more likely that the skin under your chin will sag.
- Weight: If you’re overweight, you might find that your body deposits more skin and fat beneath your jaw.
- Body Structure: If you’re relatively thin, you can still end up with a double chin. It all comes down to where and how your body stores and distributes fat cells.
- Age: Our skin loses its bounce and elasticity with age. The skin below your chin might sag as you get older or form a pouch or fat that makes your neck look flabby.
- Diet: If you eat foods that are fatty, greasy, or high in sugar or sodium, you might see an area of swelling or fat tissue beneath your chin, no matter what you weigh or your body type.
- Exercise: If you don’t exercise regularly, you could see a build-up of fat and skin that can quickly lead to a double chin.
What Is Kybella And How Does It Work?
Until recently, you would have had to choose between surgical methods like liposuction or a face or neck lift to get rid of fat and skin hanging from your jaw. Now, you have non-surgical options that dissolve fat within several weeks.
So, what is Kybella? It’s man-made deoxycholic acid. When you eat, your body produces the natural form of this acid to digest food. This acid breaks down food and fat in your digestive tract.
Kybella injections into the tissue beneath your chin have the same effect as deoxycholic acid does in your digestion. Once the acid breaks down the submental fat cells, your immune system brings in agents to clear these cells and promote collagen to make your skin more elastic and firm.
Does Kybella Have Any Side Effects?
It’s possible to see minor side effects with Kybella injections. You might notice:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Itching
- Inflamed or red skin
- Mild pain or irritation
- Nausea
- Headache
- Sensation loss or numbness at the injection site
If you have side effects, don’t worry. They’re normal and usually mild. You should contact your provider if you have more intense reactions like sores, signs of infection, nerve changes, or difficulty moving your facial muscles or swallowing.
Is Kybella Permanent?
Once the deoxycholic acid in Kybella breaks down your submental fat cells, they won’t come back. If you gain weight, it’s possible to see new fat cells develop under your chin. With a healthy diet and regular exercise, your Kybella injection results are permanent, and you can enjoy them for many years.
How Do You Know If Kybella Is Working?
Kybella and your body will immediately start working together to flush out your fat cells. This takes longer than surgically removing the cells, so you won’t notice results the next day–or even the next few days. Give it two to four weeks to start seeing results. By weeks six to eight, you should see a big difference in your submental fat. Remember that you might need more than one session to get rid of the fat under your chin completely.
Dissolve Stubborn Fat At Botox Bar DFW
It can be really hard and frustrating to have extra tissue under your chin. Maybe you’ve tried exercises, diets, or weird internet advice that is “guaranteed” to work. And yet, you still haven’t seen any changes.
Our providers at Botox Bar know how much of a struggle it can be to get rid of submental fat. After all, nobody wants to worry about a double chin. With a session of Kybella injections, you won’t have to. You can book a consultation online, call us at (817) 533-7676, or email us with any questions.
