A double chin or turkey neck is a phenomenon that is caused by a layer of subcutaneous fat around the neck that droops down and creates a wrinkle, making the owner appear to have a second chin. It is most widespread among the elderly and the obese, and is more visible when the bottom jaw is lowered.

Double chins tend to be blamed on weight gain and/or aging, but actually may also occur as an inherited characteristic. Like other parts of the body, the chin is susceptible to laying down fat; consequently the most common reason for getting a double chin is excessive fat being stored below the jaw.

There are a number of choices available to get rid of a double chin. Starting with the least radical home remedies and exercises:

Change the diet to one of higher fiber and lower calorie. Consumption of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables is advised.
Exercise by opening the mouth very wide and pushing the lower jaw forward and then upwards so the bottom teeth extend over the top of the upper lip. Do this ten to fifteen times and repeat at least three to four times a day. Like all exercise, build up to the maximum number is necessary, so don't strain.
Follow the jaw exercise by moderate slapping under the jaw line. Keep this up for a number of minutes each time.

Further than these home remedies a flourishing market exists in devices and techniques designed to tone and tighten the jaw. But the most decisive way of removing a double chin is by surgery and in particular via submental lipectomy. More usually known as a 'neck lift' the standard procedure can be carried out as an outpatient and involves a small incision under the chin. The extra fat is then sucked out. Lastly, they will make a vertical incision between the layers of the neck and jaw muscle, and stitch the edges together, tapering the muscle layer. It is a moderately painless procedure, and needs only two small bandages to hide. Bruising is negligible, and usually disappears within about ten days. More complex operations may involve surgery on muscles or even chin implants.

As insurance generally does not cover the costs of cosmetic procedures a lipectomy, patients will have to foot the full cost. The procedure cost somewhere in the region of thousands but prices will differ according to what is required and the charges and on-costs imposed by different clinics. Come call it turkey neck while others call it double chin - we have a solution for you.

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