Concerns Over Double Chin Among Women in Spain
A recent study reveals that 61% of women in Spain are concerned about their double chin, making them the most worried demographic globally. The double chin ranks among their top three aesthetic concerns, following under-eye bags and skin laxity. This issue is particularly challenging to address, as it does not improve with diets or cosmetic treatments.
The double chin is often congenital, with individuals genetically predisposed to develop it. While it can occasionally result from excessive muscle development in the mouth floor, the accumulation of fat occurs in both slender and heavier body types. According to plastic surgeon Rubén García Guilarte, it is common in individuals with a slim build and typically develops during adolescence when fat cells are more prone to accumulation.
This natural process is largely independent of dietary habits. If fat cells in this area are programmed to store fat, they will do so regardless of intervention, as noted by García Guilarte. Historically, liposuction was the only effective solution, as fat cells in this region resist treatments like lipolytics and mesotherapy. However, new non-invasive alternatives, such as Belkyra and CoolSculpting, have emerged to reshape the jawline without surgery.
Belkyra: A Chemical Liposuction
Belkyra functions as a chemical liposuction, targeting and destroying the fat cells responsible for the double chin.
Who is it for?
Suitable for non-obese men and women with moderate to mild fat accumulation and slight skin laxity. Younger individuals tend to benefit more due to better skin elasticity.
What is it?
Belkyra is a synthetic version of deoxycholic acid that acts as a “detergent,” destroying fat cells rather than merely emptying them, preventing them from refilling. In addition to fat destruction, it promotes slight fibrosis, enhancing collagen production and skin tightening to avoid sagging.
How is it administered?
A mapping of injection points is conducted, followed by anesthesia and approximately 20 micro-injections with a fine needle directed at the fat cells.
Does it hurt?
Patients may experience a burning sensation and mild local discomfort due to inflammation, which diminishes over time.
Post-treatment effects
The chin may appear 15% more swollen for two to three days, which is beneficial for skin retraction. Bruising or redness may occur, along with temporary numbness or sensitivity loss.
Results
Visible improvements can be seen after a couple of weeks.
Sessions required
A minimum of two and a maximum of six sessions, spaced at least one month apart.
Cost
Ranges from €520 to €2000 per session.
Where to get treated
Available in Madrid at various clinics, including Dras Mira+Cueto, Dr. Isabel de Benito, and others. In Málaga, Dr. Fernando Urdiales offers the treatment, while in Barcelona, Dr. Junco and Dr. Ribé provide services.
CoolSculpting: Freezing Fat Cells
CoolSculpting reshapes the facial contour without surgery by applying cold to the accumulated fat in the neck.
Who is it for?
Ideal for non-obese individuals with localized fat who prefer not to undergo injections.
What is it?
This technique involves controlled cooling to target fat cells. Developed by scientists at Harvard University, CoolSculpting effectively crystallizes fat cells, leading to their natural elimination without harming surrounding skin.
How is it performed?
A specific applicator is placed on the treatment area, applying cold temperatures (down to -11ºC) for about 45 minutes. Multiple areas may require treatment, extending the duration and cost.
Does it hurt?
The initial five minutes may be uncomfortable, but the area soon becomes numb. Discomfort may return during post-session massage to mobilize the frozen fat cells.
Post-treatment effects
Mild inflammation and tingling may persist for two days to three weeks, depending on the amount of fat removed.
Results
Effects begin to appear after three weeks, gradually improving over the following three months.
Sessions required
Typically, two sessions are sufficient for a definitive contour reduction.
Cost
Approximately €600 per area per session.
Where to get treated
Available at the Maribel Yébenes Beauty Institute in Madrid and Ribé Clinic in Barcelona.