Submentoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of your neck and jawline. It’s used to address concerns like a “double chin” and can help define the jaw.
As more and more people seek facial rejuvenation treatments, minimally invasive procedures like submentoplasty have become increasingly popular. People want to look younger and fresher, but without extensive surgery or downtime.
This article offers a comprehensive overview of submentoplasty, exploring what it is, how it works, and what you can expect from the procedure.
What is submentoplasty?
Submentoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that focuses on the area under your chin to reduce fat and refine the contour of your jawline.
It’s designed to address common concerns like:
- Double chin
- Muscle laxity
- Excess skin
How is it different from a traditional neck lift?
Submentoplasty is less invasive than a traditional neck lift, and it requires a shorter recovery time. It also targets a more specific area.
Who is a good candidate for submentoplasty?
Submentoplasty, or chin tuck surgery, is not for everyone.
The best candidates are usually younger, with skin that still has some elasticity. They often have excess fat underneath the chin and want a more defined jawline.
To be eligible for submentoplasty, you should be in good health and understand what the procedure can and can’t do.
Submentoplasty won’t correct sagging skin. If you have significant skin laxity, you may need a neck lift instead. Certain medical conditions can also make you ineligible for this surgery.
The Submentoplasty Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide
So, what does a submentoplasty actually involve? Here’s a breakdown of the typical steps.
Pre-Operative Consultation
This is where you and your surgeon get on the same page. Talking through your expectations is key. Your surgeon will also need a complete medical history. Finally, they’ll carefully assess your individual anatomy. Every face is different, so the procedure needs to be tailored to your specific needs and bone structure.
Anesthesia and Incision
You’ll have a choice when it comes to anesthesia: local with sedation, or general anesthesia. Once you’re comfortable, the surgeon makes a small incision – usually just 2 to 2.5 centimeters long – right under your chin. This incision is how they’ll access the underlying muscles.
Fat Removal and Muscle Tightening
Next comes the sculpting. Liposuction techniques are used to carefully remove excess fat from the area. Then, the platysma muscle (that’s the muscle that runs down your neck) is tightened. This is called plication, and it helps to improve the contour of your jawline and address any muscle laxity. You might also hear the term “Grecian Urn Cervicoplasty” used – it’s a fancy way of describing a similar neck-tightening procedure.
Skin Redistribution and Removal (if necessary)
After the fat and muscle have been adjusted, the surgeon assesses whether any skin needs to be removed. If so, they’ll carefully redistribute the remaining skin to create a smooth, natural-looking contour.
Recovery and Downtime After Submentoplasty
As with any surgery, you’ll want to understand what to expect during recovery.
Immediate Post-Operative Care
Right after your procedure, you’ll likely be fitted with a compression garment to minimize swelling. Your surgeon will also prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable, and you’ll be advised to keep your head elevated to further reduce swelling.
Recovery Timeline
Most people can return to light activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Full recovery typically takes around 6 weeks, although some people may need more time. You’ll likely see noticeable results within a month, but the final results may take 6 to 12 months to fully materialize.
Activity Restrictions
It’s essential to avoid strenuous activities during the initial recovery phase. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions tailored to your situation, so be sure to follow them closely. Listen to your body, and don’t push yourself too hard too soon.
What are the risks?
Like all surgeries, submentoplasty comes with risks of bleeding, infection, and bad reactions to anesthesia.
Risks specific to submentoplasty include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Numbness
- Changes in skin sensation
- Scarring
- Irregular skin contours
You can minimize these risks by choosing an experienced, board-certified surgeon. A skilled surgeon will know how to avoid complications and manage them effectively if they occur.
Can I combine submentoplasty with other procedures?
Yes. Submentoplasty often works well with other facial rejuvenation procedures. These procedures address different aspects of the face, creating a more balanced and harmonious result.
Some common procedures combined with submentoplasty include:
- Facelift: A facelift addresses sagging skin and wrinkles in the mid and lower face, while submentoplasty improves the jawline and reduces a double chin.
- Rhinoplasty: Reshaping the nose can be complemented by submentoplasty to improve overall facial proportions.
- Chin implants: A chin implant can enhance the chin’s projection, further defining the jawline when combined with submentoplasty.
- Neck liposuction: While submentoplasty addresses the platysma muscle, liposuction can remove excess fat in the neck for a more sculpted appearance.
The ideal combination of procedures is always tailored to your individual needs and goals, so talk to your surgeon about the best approach for you.
How much does submentoplasty cost, and how long does it last?
The cost of submentoplasty can vary quite a bit depending on the surgeon’s experience, where you live, and the fees associated with the facility. In the UK, you can probably expect to pay somewhere between £6,000 and £8,000.
How long your results last depends mostly on your skin’s elasticity and your lifestyle. If you maintain a healthy lifestyle and protect your skin from the sun, the results of submentoplasty can be long-lasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is appropriate for Submentoplasty?
There isn’t a specific age that’s “appropriate” for submentoplasty. It really depends on the individual’s anatomy and concerns. Many patients consider it when they notice excess fat or sagging skin under the chin, which can happen at any age due to genetics, weight fluctuations, or aging. As long as you’re in good health and have realistic expectations, age isn’t usually a barrier.
What is a Submentoplasty?
A submentoplasty, also known as a neck lift, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the neck and jawline. It typically involves liposuction to remove excess fat and tightening the platysma muscle (the muscle that runs down the front of your neck) to create a more defined contour. The goal is to reduce the “double chin” and create a smoother, more youthful neck profile.
What is the difference between Submentoplasty and platysmaplasty?
While both procedures address the neck area, they focus on different aspects. A submentoplasty combines liposuction and platysma muscle tightening to address both excess fat and muscle laxity. A platysmaplasty, on the other hand, specifically targets the platysma muscle. It involves tightening or repositioning the muscle to reduce banding or sagging in the neck. Sometimes, they’re performed together for a more comprehensive neck rejuvenation.
The Bottom Line
If you’re bothered by a double chin or poorly defined neck, submentoplasty may be a good option for you. It’s a minimally invasive procedure with a relatively quick recovery, and it can dramatically improve the contours of your chin and neck.
However, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced surgeon to determine if you’re a suitable candidate. Look for a GMC specialist registered facial plastic surgeon who can properly assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and explain the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.
For the right person, submentoplasty can be a life-changing procedure.