Double Chin Up?
As reported by The Guardian just a few days ago, a California-based company is developing a drug that proposes to reduce neck fat non-invasively. The space age sounding injectable, ATX-101, is creating promising results for 90% of test patients with double chins, according to the manufacturer, Kythera Biopharmaceuticals.
Whether ATX-101 effectively delivers on its fat blasting promise remains to be seen. We’ll know more in a few months as the Food and Drug Administration completes its review of the drug. But even if the injections are found to eliminate fat deposits under the skin, a problem will remain for many patients: droopy skin.
This is one of those so-called “no brainers;” think about it for a moment and you’ll agree. Many forms of cosmetic surgery have the words “lift” or “tuck” as part of their name for a good reason. Whether it’s a breast lift, tummy tuck, arm lift, facelift or even eyelid lift, removing extra surface tissue is part of the procedure when the skin has been stressed due to aging, pregnancy or environmental causes.
If you’re a fan of weight loss shows like The Biggest Loser, you may also know about the effect of weight fluctuations on skin. When someone gains a great deal of weight, the skin stretches to accommodate the pounds. When the weight is lost, the opposite action usually does not happen.
Droopy skin is therefore one of the factors that lead plastic surgeons to recommend neck lifts for many patients. Neck skin is delicate and particularly susceptible to gravity, for one thing. It’s also common for people to forget the neck when it comes to applying sunscreen and otherwise caring for the skin. Fat can certainly be a contributor, but in our three decades of performing cosmetic surgery in New York City, we’ve found that most patients with fat deposits under the chin need skin excision as well as fat removal.
Of course it’s not universally true that everyone with a double chin would benefit from neck lift surgery! Babies are notorious for having adorable little fat rolls, and their new skin bounces right into place as their bodies change. Some younger patients with good skin quality can get by with liposuction alone—and perhaps some day, with injections to break up neck fat.
As always, the best way to know what’s right for you is to visit an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with an impeccable reputation. Please contact us if we can help.
