Addressing the Jawline
Posted May 23, 2023
What can I do to treat the loose skin around my jawline or chin and the extra fatty tissue in that area? There are so many options. How do I know which one is right for me?
When a patient comes in for a consultation, Dr. Antimarino will evaluate them and consider multiple criteria when determining their treatment options. This will include the age of the patient, the amount of skin laxity as compared to the amount of fatty tissue that is present, and the patient’s skin tone. Dr. Antimarino will also consider the patient’s goals and expectations regarding their outcome.
For patients with mild to moderate excess fat, mild skin laxity, and good skin tone, the non-surgical Deep Virtue RF is a good option. RF Microneedling is delivered deep into the subcutaneous tissue, where it can remodel fatty tissue and tighten the skin. A topical numbing cream is used for comfort measures prior to treatment, and no sedation is needed. Three treatments spaced a month apart is the recommended treatment plan. There may be mild swelling and redness post-treatment, but there is no downtime needed.
LipoAI is an in-office, surgical treatment that can be done for the patient who is comfortable being awake and using mild, oral sedation. LipoAI is used to remove smaller pockets of fatty tissue with some skin tightening achieved through the laser handpiece. Prior to the procedure, the patient is given an oral pain medication and a relaxation medication. Pronox, which is similar to “laughing gas,” is available during the treatment to manage any discomfort as the patient is awake throughout the entire procedure. LipoAI can be done efficiently and safely without any recovery time, and the patient is able to walk out of the office immediately following the procedure. Compression garments may be worn post-treatment for a few weeks. There is typically a 2–3-day downtime with a return to full exercise in 1-2 weeks.
Standard Liposuction is used to remove larger amounts of fatty tissue and can enhance the body’s shape and create contours. Liposuction can be done in combination with other body or breast procedures. This procedure is done in an accredited surgical center with full sedation by an anesthesia provider. There is approximately one hour of recovery required prior to discharge after surgery. Compression garments may be worn post-operatively for a few weeks. There are typically 3-4 days of downtime, and a patient can return to their normal exercise routine in approximately 1-2 weeks.
A patient with loose skin, typically over the age of 50 may consider the RF Virtue microneedling device depending upon the expectations regarding skin tightening. However, if the patient wants to remove the excess skin for a more defined, tighter, refined appearance, then a Neck lift or Facelift is required.