What It Is
Chin and neck liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess fat beneath the chin and around the neck to refine the jawline, reduce the appearance of a double chin, and create a more defined profile.
In Korea, chin and neck liposuction is highly popular among both domestic and international patients seeking a slimmer, V-line facial contour. Korean surgeons are globally recognized for their precision techniques, use of microcannulas, and advanced liposuction systems such as VASER (ultrasound-assisted), PAL (power-assisted), and laser-assisted methods. These approaches allow for smooth contouring with minimal scarring and downtime.
Why It’s Done
Cosmetic Purposes:
- Eliminates double chin and excess fat under the jawline.
- Defines the chin, neck, and jawline for a slimmer appearance.
- Enhances facial harmony, often complementing V-line surgery or facial contouring.
- Creates a youthful, more sculpted neck profile.
Corrective Purposes:
- Corrects neck fullness due to genetics or weight changes.
- Improves balance between the chin and neck for better profile aesthetics.
Patient Considerations:
- Suitable for healthy adults with localized chin/neck fat and good skin elasticity.
- Often chosen by younger patients for contouring and by older patients alongside tightening procedures.
- Not a weight-loss method; designed for sculpting and refinement.
Alternatives
- Kybella (Deoxycholic Acid Injections) – Non-surgical option to dissolve fat, requires multiple sessions.
- Ultrasound or Radiofrequency Tightening (HIFU, Thermage, RF Microneedling) – Improve skin tightening but limited fat reduction.
- CoolSculpting (Cryolipolysis) – Freezes fat under the chin; less precise than liposuction.
- Neck Lift Surgery – For patients with sagging skin and significant laxity, not just fat.
Preparation
- Consultation: Facial analysis, skin elasticity assessment, and treatment planning.
- Medical Evaluation: Blood tests and health check-up.
- Pre-Op Instructions: Stop smoking, alcohol, and blood-thinning medications.
- Fasting: Required if general anesthesia is used (not needed for local anesthesia cases).
- Garments: Compression chin strap prepared for post-surgery support.
How It’s Done
Type: Minimally invasive surgical procedure.
Duration: 1–2 hours.
Procedure Steps:
- Small incisions made under the chin or behind the ears (hidden scars).
- Tumescent solution injected to numb, reduce bleeding, and loosen fat.
- Fat removed using fine cannulas (VASER, PAL, or laser-assisted tools may be used).
- Jawline and neck contoured for symmetry and smooth definition.
- Incisions closed with minimal sutures.
Anesthesia: Local with sedation or general anesthesia depending on complexity.
Hospitalization: Outpatient; patients return home the same day.
Recovery
- First Week: Swelling, bruising, and tightness; chin strap worn continuously.
- Pain Management: Mild discomfort treated with oral medications.
- Downtime: Most patients resume work and daily activities in 3–5 days.
- Exercise: Avoid strenuous activity for 2–3 weeks.
- Final Results: Visible in 1–2 months; refined contour stabilizes in 3–6 months.
- Longevity: Permanent fat removal if a stable weight is maintained.
Possible Complications
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or numbness.
- Contour irregularities if fat is unevenly removed.
- Loose skin in patients with poor elasticity (may require additional tightening).
- Infection, hematoma, or seroma (rare with proper care).
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
- Physical Examination to assess fat distribution and skin elasticity.
- 3D Imaging (in some clinics) for previewing results.
- Customized Planning based on facial proportions and patient goals.
Medical Treatments
- Kybella injections for mild double chin.
- Non-surgical tightening with HIFU or RF for patients with skin laxity.
Surgical or Advanced Therapies
- Standard Chin and Neck Liposuction: Fat removal and contouring.
- VASER Liposuction: Ultrasound-assisted, improves precision and skin tightening.
- Laser-Assisted Liposuction: Liquefies fat and stimulates collagen.
- PAL Liposuction: Power-assisted for smooth, efficient fat removal.
- Combination Surgery: Chin/neck lipo with facelift, neck lift, or jawline surgery for comprehensive results.
Rehabilitation and Support
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and contour.
- Compression strap usage guidance.
- Scar management therapies (laser, silicone gel) if needed.
- International patient services: translation, transport, and recovery programs
