Double Chin Solutions: Mesotherapy vs Lipolysis – Which Works Best?

 

You catch a glimpse of your profile in a photo or mirror, and there it is - that little pocket of fullness under your chin.

The double chin (also known as submental fullness) is one of those beauty concerns that doesn’t always play fair. You can be at a healthy weight, work out regularly, and still see that extra curve below your jawline.

Why? Because this isn’t just about fat. Genetics, skin laxity, and even posture can play a role. And once it’s there, it’s notoriously hard to target with diet and exercise alone.

That’s where non-surgical treatments like mesotherapy and lipolysis injections come in. They’ve become go-to solutions for people who want a more defined jawline without going under the knife.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Why double chins happen (hint: it’s not always about weight)
• How mesotherapy and lipolysis work - in plain language
• The pros, cons, and differences between them
• What to expect during and after treatment
• How to choose the right option for you
• Real-world considerations and safety tips

 

Why Double Chins Happen - And Why They’re Hard to Get Rid Of

Here’s the thing: a double chin can develop for reasons that have nothing to do with your body size.

Common causes include:

1. Genetics – Some people naturally store more fat under the chin or have a shorter jawline.
2. Aging – As collagen levels drop, skin loses elasticity, making it easier for fat to sag.
3. Posture & “Tech Neck” – Constantly looking down at devices weakens neck muscles.
4. Weight Changes – Even modest weight gain can show up in the jaw area.

Why it’s stubborn:
Fat cells under the chin are resistant to diet and exercise because your body doesn’t selectively “burn” from one area. Plus, even if you lose weight, loose skin can make the area look fuller than it is.

 

Mesotherapy - Gentle Fat Reduction and Skin Boosting in One

Mesotherapy might sound high-tech, but think of it as a micro-targeted cocktail of skin and fat-friendly ingredients delivered exactly where they’re needed.

How It Works

• A fine needle injects a custom solution into the layer of fat under your skin.
• Key ingredients often include phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and deoxycholic acid.
• These break down fat cells and boost microcirculation.
• Over time, your body naturally flushes the destroyed fat cells through the lymphatic system.

What It Feels Like

Most people report only mild stinging or pressure. The session usually takes 15–30 minutes, and numbing cream can make it even more comfortable.

Benefits

• Gradual, natural-looking results
• Can also improve skin tone and firmness
• Minimal downtime (mild swelling for 1–3 days)
• Can be tailored to your needs and skin

Things to Consider

• Typically requires 3–6 sessions for optimal results
• Results depend on your lifestyle; significant weight gain can affect longevity
• Best for mild to moderate fat rather than large volumes

 

Lipolysis Injections - Permanent Fat Cell Destruction

If mesotherapy is about gently coaxing fat away, lipolysis injections are about permanently eliminating those fat cells.

How It Works

• Uses a concentrated form of deoxycholic acid - a molecule your body naturally uses to break down dietary fat.
• When injected under the chin, it destroys fat cell membranes.
• Once gone, those fat cells can’t store fat again.

What It Feels Like

You may feel warmth or mild burning for a few minutes. Swelling is more noticeable than with mesotherapy, often lasting 3–5 days.

Benefits

• Fewer sessions - usually 2–4 treatments spaced a month apart
• Permanent fat cell removal in the treated area
• Effective for moderate to larger amounts of submental fat

Things to Consider

• More initial swelling compared to mesotherapy
• Not designed to tighten skin - if skin laxity is present, you might need additional treatments
• Slightly higher cost per session

 

Mesotherapy vs Lipolysis — Side-by-Side Comparison

 

Feature	Mesotherapy	Lipolysis Injections
Main Goal	Fat breakdown + skin improvement	Permanent fat destruction
Key Ingredient	PPC + deoxycholic acid mix	Deoxycholic acid only
Ideal For	Mild–moderate fat, skin tone issues	Moderate–large fat pockets
Sessions Needed	3–6	2–4
Downtime	Mild swelling 1–3 days	More swelling 3–5 days
Longevity	Long-lasting with healthy lifestyle	Permanent
Skin Tightening	Yes, mild improvement	No
Comfort Level	Generally gentler	Slightly more discomfort

 

Which One Should You Choose?

 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer - the right choice depends on your anatomy, goals, and comfort level.

Mesotherapy might be better if:

• You have a small to moderate double chin
• You also want a subtle skin-tightening boost
• You prefer gradual, natural-looking changes

Lipolysis injections might be better if:

• You want to remove as much fat as possible in fewer sessions
• Your skin has good elasticity
• You’re okay with more swelling in the short term

 

What to Expect - From Consultation to Results

1. Consultation

A good clinic starts with an in-depth assessment - not just to see the fat amount, but to evaluate skin quality, facial balance, and your lifestyle. This helps avoid cookie-cutter recommendations.

2. Treatment Day

• The area is cleansed and numbed.
• Multiple tiny injections are placed under your chin.
• You’ll be done in under an hour.

3. Recovery

• Swelling peaks in the first 48 hours, then subsides.
• Bruising, tenderness, and temporary numbness are normal.
• You can return to normal activities within a day or two (except heavy exercise).

4. Results

• Mesotherapy: Improvements start at 3–4 weeks, with best results after your final session.
• Lipolysis: Changes start at 4–6 weeks and continue for months.

 

Risks, Safety, and Choosing the Right Provider

 

Common short-term effects:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Mild pain or tingling
• Bruising

Rare risks:

• Nerve injury causing temporary uneven smile
• Infection (extremely rare with sterile techniques)

Safety tips:

• Choose a licensed medical professional with experience in facial injections
• Ask for before-and-after photos of real patients
• Be honest about your medical history and any allergies

 

Maximizing and Maintaining Your Results

• Stay hydrated to help your body flush fat breakdown products.
• Avoid high-salt foods and alcohol for a few days to minimize swelling.
• Keep your weight stable - new fat can store in untreated areas.
• Consider skin-tightening treatments (like HIFU) if you’re concerned about loose skin.

 

FAQs - Quick Answers to Common Questions

1. Can I get rid of a double chin without surgery?
Yes - mesotherapy and lipolysis injections are effective non-surgical options.

2. Are results from lipolysis really permanent?
Yes, destroyed fat cells don’t return - but weight gain can affect surrounding areas.

3. How many sessions will I need?
Mesotherapy: 3–6. Lipolysis: 2–4 on average.

4. Is there downtime?
Both have minimal downtime, though lipolysis usually causes more swelling for a few days.

5. Does it hurt?
Discomfort is mild and temporary; numbing cream helps.

6. Can I combine treatments?
Yes - some providers use mesotherapy for skin quality and lipolysis for fat reduction.

7. Is it safe?
Yes, when performed by a qualified medical professional in a sterile environment.

 

Conclusion - Your Jawline, Your Choice

A double chin can be stubborn, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Mesotherapy and lipolysis injections both offer targeted, effective solutions - the best choice depends on your unique needs, goals, and preferences.

Dr. Alireza Hashemnejad, a 1998 graduate of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, brings more than 25 years of experience in both medical and aesthetic care. Based in Toronto, Canada, he provides expert consultations at three top-tier clinics, offering personalized treatments that combine precision, deep expertise, and genuine compassion-helping each patient reach their individual health and beauty goals.