Facelift & Neck Surgery
Facial Liposuction
Targeted fat removal from the submental area and jowls for a sharper, more defined jawline, often combined with FaceTite radiofrequency technology.
Dr. Havva Duru Ipek wrote and medically reviewed this article · · Credentials and sources
| Duration of the operation | 30–60 minutes, depending on the area treated |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Local anaesthesia option, generally well tolerated |
| Onset of effect | Initial contouring visible within 2–4 weeks, as swelling subsides |
| Permanence | Largely permanent — treated fat cells do not return, though remaining fat cells can still expand with weight gain |
| Return to daily life | Major swelling resolves within 2 weeks; final contour visible by 6 months |
| Not carried out in | Patients with unrealistic expectations, active skin infection in the treatment area, or uncontrolled systemic disease |
| Number of sessions | Single surgical session |
Facial liposuction removes excess fat from the submental area and jowls to sharpen jawline definition, often combined with FaceTite radiofrequency technology for additional skin tightening. Performed through tiny incisions under local anaesthesia, it suits patients with stubborn fat and good skin elasticity who want a single-session, largely permanent result.
What is facial liposuction?
Facial liposuction is a targeted contouring procedure. Procedure highlights include:
- Targeted removal of excess fat from the chin, jawline, and submental area
- A sharper, more defined jawline profile
- The option of local anaesthesia, generally well tolerated
- Small incisions, typically 2–3mm, that become virtually undetectable
- Results that are largely permanent
- Often combined with FaceTite radiofrequency technology, a chin implant, or dermal fillers
Understanding the costs
Pricing depends on the areas treated and whether FaceTite radiofrequency technology or combination procedures such as a chin implant or dermal fillers are included in the plan.
Visible transformations
- Double chin — targeted liposuction reduces excess fat beneath the chin for a sharper profile.
- Jawline contouring — removal of fat along the jawline creates a more defined, sculpted line.
- Submental healing — the submental area continues to refine for up to six months as swelling fully resolves.
Who is a good candidate?
Facial liposuction suits patients with localised, stubborn fat beneath the chin and along the jawline who want a sharper profile without the recurring cost of repeated injectable treatments. A local anaesthesia option is available and generally well tolerated, which can suit candidates who prefer to avoid a general anaesthetic. Patients seeking more comprehensive skin tightening alongside contouring are often combined with FaceTite radiofrequency treatment, a chin implant, or dermal fillers in the same plan.
What to expect from the procedure
The procedure is performed through small incisions, typically 2–3mm, that become virtually undetectable as they heal. Excess fat is targeted and removed from the chin, jawline and submental area in a single surgical session, with the option of local anaesthesia for suitable candidates. When combination treatment is planned, FaceTite radiofrequency, a chin implant, or dermal fillers can be delivered as part of the same session.
Recovery & aftercare
- Healing timeline — major swelling resolves within 2 weeks; the final contour is visible by around 6 months.
- Compression garment — worn continuously for the first week, then at night for a further 2–4 weeks.
- Tracking progress — visible refinement continues gradually over the following months as swelling subsides.
Managing risks
Choosing an experienced surgeon is central to managing the risks associated with facial liposuction and achieving a natural, well-contoured result.
How it compares to other techniques
- Facial liposuction vs. buccal fat removal — liposuction targets excess fat in the chin, jawline, and submental area, while buccal fat removal addresses fullness in the mid-cheek.
- Submental liposuction vs. Kybella — submental liposuction is a surgical procedure with a single-session result, while Kybella is a non-surgical injectable requiring multiple sessions.
Frequently asked questions
Is facial liposuction painful?
Discomfort is generally mild to moderate and mostly tolerable; a local anaesthesia option is available.
Do the removed fat cells come back?
The treated fat cells are permanently removed and do not return, though any remaining fat cells in the area can still expand if significant weight is gained.
Do I need to wear a chin strap after surgery?
A compression garment or chin strap is typically worn continuously for the first week, then at night for a further 2–4 weeks.
Will there be visible scarring?
Incisions are small, typically 2–3mm, and become virtually undetectable as they heal.
Can facial liposuction be combined with other procedures?
Yes, it is commonly combined with FaceTite radiofrequency treatment, a chin implant, or dermal fillers for a more complete result.
Written and medically reviewed by: Dr. Havva Duru Ipek — Facial Plastic Surgery / Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat), Istanbul
Last reviewed: · Next review: 2027-09
Site editor: · Our editorial policy
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The information here is general. What it means for your specific case will become clear after examination and any necessary tests. If you have prior test results or reports, please bring them with you.