Submental & Perioral Mound Liposuction
Submental and perioral mound liposuction are minimally invasive surgical procedures that remove excess fat from beneath the chin, upper neck, and the areas flanking the corners of the mouth. Using a small cannula inserted through tiny incisions, Dr. Kieu precisely removes fat from each targeted area — sculpting a smoother, more defined lower face and neck profile with results that are permanent with weight maintenance.
These two procedures address distinct anatomical areas and concerns, but share the same minimally invasive technique, recovery profile, and guiding philosophy: permanent fat reduction with natural, proportional results. They are frequently performed together in a single visit for patients with fullness in both regions.
Submental Liposuction
Submental liposuction targets excess fat beneath the chin and along the upper neck — the submental region. It is one of the most effective treatments for a "double chin" or poorly defined cervicomental angle that does not respond to diet and exercise. Because fat cells are permanently removed, results are long-lasting with maintained body weight.
What It Can Address
- Stubborn fat beneath the chin ("double chin")
- Fullness in the upper neck that softens jawline definition
- A blunted or poorly defined cervicomental angle (the angle between jaw and neck)
- Disproportionate submental fullness relative to body weight
- Genetics-driven submental fat unresponsive to lifestyle changes
Perioral Mound Liposuction
Perioral mound liposuction addresses the small fat pockets located on either side of the mouth — the perioral mounds. These deposits sit just lateral to the corners of the lips and, when prominent, can create a heaviness around the lower face that makes the mouth appear sunken, the lips less defined, or the overall lower face disproportionately full — even in patients who are otherwise slim.
What It Can Address
- Fullness or heaviness at the corners of the mouth
- A "weighted" or aged appearance around the lower face despite a healthy weight
- Perioral fat that makes the lips appear recessed or less prominent
- Lower face heaviness not improved by submental liposuction alone
- Subtle asymmetry in the perioral fat distribution
The Procedure
Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia with sedation and typically take under an hour — individually or combined in a single visit. Dr. Kieu makes one to two tiny incisions in each targeted area — each just a few millimeters — and uses precise cannula movements to remove fat strategically. The incisions are so small they are nearly invisible after healing.
A light compression garment may be worn following the procedure to support healing and help the skin conform to its new contour.
Recovery
Most patients return to work and normal activities within 5–7 days. Swelling, bruising, and some tightness in the treated areas are typical in the first week and gradually resolve. Final results — including full skin retraction — are usually visible within 2–3 months.
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with submental or perioral fat resistant to diet and exercise
- Those with good skin elasticity (the skin needs to retract after fat removal)
- Adults at or near a stable, healthy body weight
- Patients seeking lower face definition without more extensive surgery
- Good general health and realistic expectations
How It Compares to Non-Surgical Options
Non-surgical fat reduction treatments like Kybella can address submental fat, but require multiple sessions and produce more gradual results. No non-surgical option effectively treats the perioral mound region. Liposuction provides immediate, more significant, and permanent fat reduction in a single procedure. Dr. Kieu will discuss the best option for your anatomy and goals during your consultation.
Often Combined With
Dr. Kieu's Approach
Dr. Kieu uses a precise, graduated approach to facial liposuction — removing fat strategically to achieve a smooth, natural contour rather than an over-suctioned result. She evaluates the full relationship between the chin, jaw, lips, and neck to determine how much fat removal — and from which specific compartments — will create the most harmonious, proportional lower face for each individual patient.
Perioral mound liposuction in particular demands a conservative hand and a deep understanding of lower face anatomy. Her dual training in otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery gives her a precise, three-dimensional command of the perioral soft tissue structures — ensuring results that look refined and natural, not operated on.
Interested in lower face contouring? Schedule a consultation to learn which procedure — or combination — is right for your anatomy.
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