What Causes a Double Chin?
A double chin does not always reflect an individual’s body weight. Many patients present with persistent fullness due to a unique blend of structural and developmental factors:
- Hereditary traits: Some individuals are predisposed to storing fat in the submental area, regardless of overall body composition. The structure of the jaw also matters. A smaller or retruded chine, one that sits slightly further back than average, can make the neck appear fuller because the jawline provides less structural support for the tissue beneath it.
- Ageing: From our late 20s, we lose approximately 1 to 1.5% of collagen each year. Over time, the skin and supporting tissues become lax, contributing to visible laxity along the jawline.
- Lifestyle and weight fluctuations: Weight gain can contribute to fat deposits under the chin, while subsequent weight loss may leave behind loose skin that does not fully retract.
- Posture: Prolonged forward head positioning, whether from desk work, device use, or habitual slouching, gradually weakens the muscles of the neck and chin. Over time, reduced muscle tone in the submental area can contribute to a softer, less defined jawline.
Because the underlying cause differs from person to person, the appropriate approach when considering a double chin removal is not the same for every individual. At Argent plastic surgery clinic, a thorough assessment of whether surgical or non-surgical procedure is appropriate is discussed individually during each consultation.
The Combined Standard: FaceTite + Chin Liposuction
For patients with moderate to significant submental fat and some degree of skin laxity, chin liposuction combined with RFAL (Facetite) and Morpheus8 skin tightening allows for customised jawline sculpting and neck contouring tailored to each patient's facial anatomy, addressing both the fat and the skin in a single procedure.
This combined treatment:
- Removes excess fat deposits through gentle suction
- Tightens and contracts loose skin via controlled radiofrequency energy
- Stimulates collagen production for gradual firming over time
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia or light sedation, if preferred. Three incisions, one beneath the chin and one near each jaw angle, allow for proper access. Once healed, the marks are typically barely noticeable.
The entire procedure takes about 1.5 hours, and results can last 5 to 10 years depending on individual lifestyle and skin quality.

Consultation and Assessment
Your consultation at Argent Plastic Surgery is conducted personally by Dr. Lee Hanjing, a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon.
During this session:
- Your general health, concerns, and goals are discussed in detail.
- The submental area is examined to assess the amount and distribution of submental fat, degree of skin laxity and tissue quality, and chin projection and overall jaw and neck anatomy
- 3D imaging with the Quantificare camera is used to visualise your profile and support surgical planning.
- Dr. Lee will then explain the range of treatment options, detailing the benefits, limitations, and expected recovery of each.
This transparent and personalised process allows you to make an informed and confident decision about your treatment.

Preparing for Your Procedure
Preparation varies depending on the treatment chosen.
- For treatments under local anaesthesia, fasting is not necessary.
- For procedures under sedation, you will need to fast for at least 6 hours prior and arrange for someone to accompany you home after. Regardless of the anaesthesia type, it is advisable to avoid blood-thinning medications and alcohol for at least 48 hours before your appointment.
All details will be explained during your pre-procedure review to ensure you are well-prepared and confident on the day of treatment.
