What It Is
Submental Lipolysis is a non-surgical fat reduction treatment designed to target the submental region — the area beneath the chin, commonly referred to as the double chin. The procedure uses injectable solutions, most often deoxycholic acid, which destroy fat cells in the targeted area. Once the fat cells are broken down, the body naturally eliminates them through its metabolic process.
Unlike surgical options such as liposuction, submental lipolysis is minimally invasive, requires little downtime, and can be performed in less than 30 minutes. In Korea, it is a very popular treatment for creating a sharp V-line jaw contour, a highly desired feature in K-beauty standards.
Why It’s Done
Patients choose submental lipolysis for both cosmetic and psychological benefits:
➝ Fat reduction → Permanently destroys fat cells under the chin.
➝ Jawline contouring → Enhances the V-line shape by reducing bulkiness.
➝ Profile improvement → Creates a slimmer, more youthful side profile.
➝ Alternative to surgery → Less invasive compared to liposuction.
➝ Confidence boost → Restores harmony between the face, jaw, and neck.
In Korea, where facial balance is central to beauty ideals, submental lipolysis is one of the most sought-after non-surgical contouring treatments, especially among young professionals, K-pop idols, and actors who want to maintain a sleek image.
Alternatives
While submental lipolysis is effective, other treatments may also be considered:
- Liposuction → Surgical, immediate results but with longer downtime.
- CoolSculpting (cryolipolysis) → Freezes fat cells, less common in Korea for small areas like under the chin.
- HIFU (Shurink, Ultherapy, Doublo) → Tightens and lifts skin, sometimes combined with lipolysis for best results.
- Thermage FLX (Monopolar RF) → Improves skin elasticity without directly targeting fat.
- Thread lifts (PDO/PLLA/PCL) → Provide lifting of sagging skin but do not dissolve fat.
- Diet and exercise → Often ineffective for spot reduction in the chin area due to genetics.
In Korean clinics, submental lipolysis is often combined with HIFU or thread lifts for both fat removal and skin tightening.
Preparation
Preparation ensures optimal safety and effectiveness:
➝ Consultation & imaging → Korean clinics often use 3D scans to measure fat volume.
➝ Medical history review → Patients disclose medications, allergies, or prior chin procedures.
➝ Avoid blood thinners → Stop aspirin, ibuprofen, and supplements 5–7 days before treatment (with doctor’s approval).
➝ No alcohol or smoking → At least 48 hours before the procedure.
➝ Skincare adjustment → Avoid retinoids, acids, or harsh treatments for 3–5 days.
➝ Numbing → Topical anesthetic cream is usually applied for comfort.
How It’s Done
A submental lipolysis session typically takes 20–40 minutes:
- Cleansing & sterilization → The chin and jawline area are disinfected.
- Marking injection points → A grid or guide is drawn under the chin.
- Numbing → Local anesthesia or numbing cream is applied.
- Injection process →
- A fine needle injects the deoxycholic acid solution into multiple points under the chin.
- The solution breaks down fat cell membranes.
- Post-procedure care → Ice packs applied to reduce swelling.
Treatment plan:
- 2–4 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
- Results gradually appear over 4–12 weeks as fat is metabolized.
Recovery
Recovery is usually short and manageable:
- Immediately after → Swelling and mild redness under the chin.
- Day 1–7 → Noticeable swelling, tenderness, or firmness in the treated area.
- Week 2–3 → Swelling subsides; contour gradually improves.
- Month 1–3 → Fat breakdown continues, results become visible.
- Month 3–6 → Final results appear, with a slimmer and more defined jawline.
Aftercare tips:
➝ Apply ice packs for the first 24 hours.
➝ Avoid massaging the chin area.
➝ Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
➝ Avoid alcohol, saunas, and vigorous exercise for 3–5 days.
➝ Maintain a stable weight to prolong results.
Korean clinics often provide soothing creams, anti-swelling treatments, or LED therapy to accelerate recovery.
Complications
Submental lipolysis is considered safe, but possible side effects include:
➝ Swelling, bruising, redness → Common, usually temporary.
➝ Numbness or tingling → Temporary nerve irritation, resolves in weeks.
➝ Firmness or hardness → Due to fat breakdown, subsides naturally.
➝ Difficulty swallowing (rare) → From temporary swelling.
➝ Asymmetry → Avoided with precise injection techniques.
➝ Infection (rare) → Prevented with sterile procedure.
Korean dermatologists minimize risks by using FDA/KFDA-approved solutions and expert mapping techniques.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is a global hub for non-surgical contouring, and submental lipolysis is a top-requested service.
1. Common Submental Lipolysis Solutions
- Kybella (FDA-approved deoxycholic acid).
- Lipo-Dissolve / Lipodissolve cocktails (popular in Korea, often customized).
- Fat-melting mesotherapy blends (vitamins + deoxycholic acid).
2. Popular Patient Groups
- 20s–30s → Patients who want a sharper V-line.
- 40s–50s → Patients combining fat reduction with tightening therapies.
Final Thoughts
Submental Lipolysis in Korea is a safe, effective, and non-surgical solution for treating double chins. By permanently destroying fat cells with injectables, it enhances jawline sharpness, facial balance, and youthfulness without the risks of surgery.
Korean clinics elevate results by customizing injection formulas, combining lipolysis with HIFU or thread lifts, and providing advanced aftercare. For anyone seeking a slimmer, defined jawline that aligns with K-beauty standards, submental lipolysis in Korea is one of the most advanced and accessible options worldwide.
