Submental fullness — colloquially the double chin — is one of the most common aesthetic concerns we see across age groups at our clinic. It is often resistant to weight loss, influenced significantly by genetics, and can persist even in patients who are otherwise lean. Injectable fat dissolving treatments offer a non-surgical option for meaningful reduction, and for the right patient, the results are significant and lasting.
How It Works
The primary injectable used for submental fat reduction contains deoxycholic acid — a bile acid naturally produced in the body that disrupts and destroys fat cell membranes. When injected into the subcutaneous fat beneath the chin, it causes permanent destruction of the fat cells in the treated area. Once destroyed, those cells cannot regenerate or re-accumulate fat. The result is a permanent reduction in the treated fat compartment, provided weight remains stable.
The Treatment Protocol
Treatment is delivered in a series of small injections across the submental area using a grid pattern. A topical anaesthetic and ice are applied beforehand to manage discomfort. Each session takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Multiple sessions are typically required — most patients need 2-4 treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart to achieve their desired outcome. The number of sessions depends on the volume of fat present and the patient’s goals.
What to Expect After Treatment
Post-treatment swelling is significant and expected — the submental area will be noticeably swollen for 1-2 weeks following each session. This is part of the inflammatory process through which the fat cells are destroyed. Numbness, tenderness, and firmness in the treated area are also common and resolve over several weeks. The final result is visible approximately 6-8 weeks after each session, once the swelling has fully resolved and the body has processed the destroyed fat cells.
Who Is a Good Candidate
The ideal candidate has a moderate amount of submental fat, good skin elasticity (so the skin contracts appropriately as the fat reduces), and realistic expectations. Patients with very poor skin laxity may find that fat reduction without skin tightening creates skin looseness — in those cases, combining with HIFU or a thread lift may be appropriate. Patients who are significantly overweight should address overall weight before considering localised fat reduction treatments.
Book a consultation: wa.me/919381218003
— Dr. Nishita Ranka | Consultant Dermatologist | Dr. Nishita’s Clinic for Skin, Hair & Aesthetics, Hyderabad
