A double chin — medically known as submental fat — is one of the most common aesthetic concerns in adults of all ages and body types. It can make the face look heavier and the jawline less defined, and frustratingly, it often doesn't respond to diet and exercise because of the way the body preferentially stores fat in this area.
Fat freezing (cryolipolysis) with our specialist small-area applicator is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments available for this concern. Here's how it works.
Why the Double Chin Is So Difficult to Target
Submental fat sits beneath the chin and along the neck, and is largely under hormonal and genetic control. Even people who are slim elsewhere often carry persistent submental fat due to:
- **Genetics:** The tendency to store fat in the submental area is largely inherited - **Hormonal factors:** Fat distribution in this area is influenced by hormones and changes with age - **Skin laxity:** As the skin under the chin loses elasticity, even a small amount of fat becomes more visible - **Weight fluctuations:** Repeated cycles of weight gain and loss can accelerate fat accumulation in this area
No amount of neck exercises or "face yoga" will meaningfully reduce submental fat, because you cannot target fat loss to a specific area through exercise.
How Cryolipolysis Treats the Double Chin
Cryolipolysis uses a precise applicator designed specifically for the submental area — smaller and more targeted than applicators used on the body. The applicator draws the submental tissue into contact with controlled cooling panels, reducing the temperature of the fat cells to a point that triggers cell death (apoptosis) without damaging the overlying skin.
Over the following 8–12 weeks, the body's immune system clears the destroyed fat cells through the lymphatic system. Because fat cells do not regenerate once destroyed, the reduction is permanent — provided weight is kept stable.
The Treatment Experience
The applicator is placed under the chin and gentle suction draws the tissue into the cooling panels. The first few minutes involve a cold, firm sensation and some pressure — which quickly transitions to numbness as the area is cooled.
Treatment lasts approximately 35–45 minutes. There is no need for anaesthesia and no recovery period — most clients return to normal activities immediately. Mild redness, numbness, or tenderness in the treated area may persist for a few days.
Results and Expectations
Results develop gradually over 8–12 weeks as the treated fat cells are cleared. Most clients see a visible reduction in submental fullness and improved jawline definition after one session, with 20–25% fat reduction in the treated area being typical.
For clients with a larger double chin or those wanting more dramatic definition, a second session 8 weeks after the first can provide further improvement.
The treatment is not suitable for clients with very lax skin under the chin without fat present — in this case, skin tightening treatments may be more appropriate. This is assessed at consultation.
Combining Treatments for Best Results
For optimal jawline definition, double chin fat freezing can be combined with:
- **Skin tightening treatments** — to address any laxity alongside the fat reduction - **HIFU** — for a lifting effect on the jowl and neck area - **Muscle toning** — to define the jaw and neck musculature
We currently offer **up to 30% off** fat freezing packages. Book your free consultation at Skin Health Practice — call **020 3886 1313** or visit 65-73 Staines Road, Hounslow, TW3 3HW.