LIPOSUCTION OR CHIN AND NECK LIPECTOMY
What are the benefits?
Very frequently as we age, we build up fat around the chin, producing a double chin effect. Getting rid of that fat by liposuction or lipectomy helps make the face seem younger and more refreshed.
Is it for me?
The best candidates for liposuction or a chin and neck lipectomy are people who aren’t obese and who have precisely localized pockets of fat under the chin. Furthermore, their skin should be firm and elastic.
Even though liposuction or a chin and neck lipectomy can improve your appearance and your self confidence, they won’t necessarily affect your relationship with others. Before opting for this procedure, please be clear about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Duclos. She’ll be happy to answer any questions clearly and provide information on the type of procedure that’s best for you, including the pros and cons.
What techniques are used?
Removing fat from the chin can be performed by liposuction (fat is suctioned with a cannula) or by lipectomy (fat is removed by incision). In some cases, a neck lift may be necessary to get rid of excess skin and avoid the “wattle” or chicken neck effect (see Facelift section). If the chin is receding or too small, a chin implant may be useful (see Chin and cheek implants section).
During your consultation, Dr. Duclos will examine your face to determine if its harmony won’t be thrown off by modifying your chin. She will evaluate the quality of your skin, the amount of fat and where it’s situated, as well as your facial muscles and bone structure.
After evaluating your general health and your expectations, Dr. Duclos will present you with possible options, as well as their pros and cons. She will discuss the inherent risks of the procedure, explain each step of the procedure itself, which is usually performed under local anaesthetic, and discuss pre and post operative care.
The procedure should last about an hour. You will then remain under observation until the doctor decides you may leave the clinic. Painkillers will be prescribed and the date of your next appointment will be given to you before you leave. Make sure you ask someone to accompany you back home.
After the procedure, you may experience some slight pain, which can be relieved with acetaminophen or, if necessary, your prescribed medication. In general, bruising and swelling are slight.
You must wear the chin support at all times for one to two weeks, and then ten hours a day for the next two weeks.
What should I expect?
Liposuction is generally very safe, with complications arising very rarely. Infection can occur, skin sagging and in extremely rare cases, diminished or complete loss of lower lip motor function, usually temporary but sometimes permanent.
A lipectomy can cause bleeding, infection, irregular scarring, skin sagging and very rarely, diminished or complete loss of lower lip motor function, usually temporary but sometimes permanent.
It can also sometimes be difficult to predict the skin’s reaction after the procedure. A second procedure may be necessary to remove excess skin.