Fullness under the chin is one of the most common concerns we hear and also one of the most misunderstood.

Many people assume a double chin is caused by weight alone, but in reality, genetics, anatomy, skin laxity, and fat distribution all play a role. 

Even patients who are otherwise very fit can notice fullness in this area.

The good news?
There are effective, non-surgical treatment options available.

At Ageless Living Cold Lake, two of the most common approaches to treating submental fullness are injectable fat reduction (deoxycholic acid) and CoolSculpting. 

While both target fat, they work in very different ways and are suited to different patients.

Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right treatment.

What Causes a Double Chin?

Before choosing a treatment, it’s important to understand what’s contributing to fullness under the chin.

A double chin may be influenced by:

• localized fat deposits
• genetics and family history
• skin laxity or loss of elasticity
• aging-related changes in facial structure
• posture and muscle tone

Because no two patients are the same, treatment selection should always start with a professional assessment.

Option 1: Injectable Fat Reduction (Deoxycholic Acid)

Deoxycholic acid is an injectable treatment designed to permanently break down fat cells in targeted areas, most commonly under the chin.

Deoxycholic acid works by:

• disrupting the fat cell membrane
• causing fat cells to break down
• allowing the body to naturally eliminate the destroyed fat cells over time

Once these fat cells are eliminated, they do not return, making results long-lasting when weight remains stable.

Who Is Best Suited for Deoxycholic Acid?

This treatment is often best for patients who:

• have small to moderate pockets of fat under the chin
• have good skin elasticity
• prefer a precise, targeted approach
• are comfortable with injections and temporary swelling

Because the treatment is injected directly into the fat layer, it allows for detailed sculpting and contouring.

What to Expect with Deoxycholic Acid

Most patients should plan for:

• a series of 3 to 6 treatments, typically spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart
• temporary swelling, firmness, or tenderness after treatment
• gradual improvement as the body clears destroyed fat cells
• visible contouring over the following months

Swelling is a normal part of the process and an indication that the treatment is working.

Option 2: CoolSculpting for the Chin

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to target and freeze fat cells under the chin.

CoolSculpting works by:

• cooling fat cells to a temperature that causes cell death
• leaving surrounding skin and tissue unharmed
• allowing the body to naturally eliminate fat cells over time

Like injectable fat reduction, once fat cells are eliminated, they do not regenerate.

Who Is Best Suited for CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting may be ideal for patients who:

• prefer a non-injectable treatment
• have mild to moderate fullness under the chin
• want minimal downtime
• are comfortable with gradual, natural-looking changes

This option is often appealing to those looking for a needle-free approach.

What to Expect with CoolSculpting

Most patients can expect:

• A series of 2 to 3 treatments recommended for chin area
• temporary numbness, redness, or mild swelling
• no interruption to daily activities
• gradual fat reduction over several weeks

Results typically become noticeable within one to three months.

Key Differences: Injectables vs. CoolSculpting

While both treatments reduce fat, their approach and experiences differ.

Deoxycholic Acid:

• injectable treatment
• precise targeting and sculpting
• swelling is common initially
• often requires multiple sessions
• ideal for smaller, defined fat pockets

CoolSculpting:

• non-invasive, no needles
• broader fat reduction area
• minimal downtime
• less treatments needed
• ideal for patients avoiding injections

Neither treatment is “better”; the best choice depends entirely on your anatomy, goals, and preferences.

Why a Consultation Matters

Choosing the right double chin treatment isn’t about picking a trend or copying someone else’s results.

A professional consultation helps assess:

• the amount and type of fat present
• skin elasticity and tone
• facial structure and proportions
• your comfort level with different treatments
• realistic expectations and timelines

In some cases, patients may even benefit from combining treatments over time or addressing skin laxity separately.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Non-surgical fat reduction delivers gradual, natural-looking improvements, not an overnight transformation.

Both injectable fat reduction and CoolSculpting require patience, consistency, and realistic expectations.

The goal is subtle contouring that enhances your natural profile, not dramatic or overdone results.

A Personalized Approach to Chin Contouring

At Ageless Living Cold Lake, our approach is always education-first. We believe the best results come from personalized treatment planning rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Whether injectable fat reduction or CoolSculpting is right for you depends on your unique anatomy and goals, and we’re here to guide you through that decision.

Subtle changes can make a powerful difference, especially when they’re chosen thoughtfully and performed safely.

If you’re considering double chin treatment, a consultation is the best first step toward understanding your options and creating a plan that feels right for you.