A double chin can come from fat, loose skin, a small chin or a combination. This guide explains the non-surgical treatments available in Seoul, what results to expect and how to plan them during your trip.
Non-surgical double chin treatment in Korea targets the cause. Fat-dissolving injections, InMode Mini FX and ONDA microwave reduce under-chin fat; HIFU such as Shurink Universe tightens loose skin; and chin filler can improve a recessed chin that makes the area look fuller. Most fat-reduction options need several weeks and often two to four sessions. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, fat-dissolving injections start from ₩69,000 per area, InMode from ₩129,000 per area and ONDA from ₩199,000 for 30,000 J (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What causes a double chin?
A double chin, or submental fullness, is one of the most common reasons visitors ask about contouring in Seoul. It is not always about weight. Several factors, often in combination, can create fullness under the chin:
- Localized fat: a pocket of fat under the chin that can persist even at a healthy weight, often due to genetics.
- Skin laxity: as collagen declines, the skin and supporting tissue under the chin loosen.
- Chin and jaw structure: a small or recessed chin makes the area between the chin and neck look shorter and fuller.
- Posture: looking down for long periods can make fullness more noticeable.
Identifying the main cause is the most important step, because a fat-reduction treatment will not fix loose skin, and tightening will not remove a significant fat pocket. Learn more on our double chin concern page.
Non-surgical double chin treatments in Seoul
| Treatment | How it works | Best for | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fat-dissolving injection | Injectable solution breaks down fat cells | Small, defined fat pockets | Swelling for 2–5 days |
| InMode Mini FX | RF energy targets small fat deposits | Mild under-chin fat | Mild swelling or tenderness |
| ONDA Lifting | Microwave energy heats fat and deep tissue | Broader lower-face fullness | None to mild swelling |
| Shurink Universe / Ulthera Prime | Focused ultrasound tightens deeper layers | Loose skin under the chin | None to mild tenderness |
| Chin filler | HA filler adds chin projection | Recessed or short chin | Mild swelling for 1–3 days |
Fat-dissolving injections
A doctor injects a fat-dissolving solution into the under-chin fat in a grid pattern. Treated fat cells break down and are cleared gradually by the body. Several formulations are used in Korea, and your doctor explains which one they recommend. Most people need two to four sessions, two to four weeks apart. See the fat-dissolving injection page.
InMode Mini FX
Mini FX delivers radiofrequency energy to small fat pockets, often combined with Forma for skin tightening in the same session. It is usually done as a short series. See InMode Forma and Mini FX.
ONDA microwave lifting
ONDA uses microwave energy that is mainly absorbed by fat and deeper connective tissue, with a cooled handpiece protecting the skin. It suits fullness that extends along the jawline. See ONDA Lifting.
HIFU for under-chin laxity
If the main problem is loose skin rather than fat, focused ultrasound tightens the supporting layers under the chin. HIFU is not primarily a fat-reduction treatment, although it is often combined with one.
Chin filler for balance
When a recessed chin is part of the problem, adding projection with a small amount of filler can make the under-chin area look tighter without removing any fat.
Who is a good candidate?
Usually a good fit
- A small to moderate pocket of fat under the chin
- Mild skin looseness in the submental area
- Stable body weight
- People who prefer to avoid surgery or liposuction
Talk to the doctor first
- Significant loose skin or a large amount of fat, where surgery may be more effective
- Fullness caused by thyroid or salivary gland swelling, which needs medical review
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Bleeding disorders or blood thinners (for injections)
- Pacemakers or metal implants near the area (for energy devices)
What happens on treatment day
- Assessment. The doctor pinches and examines the under-chin area to judge fat thickness, skin laxity and chin projection, then recommends a treatment and number of sessions.
- Marking. The area to be treated is marked, staying away from structures that should not be targeted.
- Treatment. Injections take around 15–20 minutes; energy treatments take 20–40 minutes depending on the device.
- Aftercare. A cool compress may be used, and you receive written aftercare in English.
Double chin treatment results timeline
- Days 1–5: after injections, the area is often swollen, firm and tender, and may look fuller before it improves. Energy treatments cause less swelling.
- Weeks 2–4: swelling settles, and early reduction may be visible.
- Weeks 4–8: the main change appears as treated fat is cleared and skin tightens.
- After the series: final result is usually assessed about two months after the last session.
Treated fat cells are cleared and do not usually return, but remaining fat cells can grow with weight gain. Read the fat-dissolving injection results guide for more detail.
Injections or energy devices: which should you choose?
Both approaches can reduce under-chin fat, and the right choice often comes down to your schedule and how much swelling you can accept. Injections are precise and inexpensive per session, but swelling is more noticeable and a series is usually needed. Energy devices such as Mini FX and ONDA cause less visible swelling and can tighten skin at the same time, which suits visitors with a short stay or upcoming plans. If both fat and loose skin are present, the doctor may combine one fat-reduction method with HIFU for a cleaner result.
Risks and side effects
Fat-dissolving injections commonly cause swelling, bruising, tenderness, numbness and a firm feeling under the chin for several days. Less commonly, people develop lumps that soften over time. Rare but important risks include temporary injury to the nerve that controls the lower lip, which can cause an uneven smile for a period of weeks, and skin ulceration if the product is injected too superficially. These are reduced when an experienced doctor maps the area carefully.
Energy devices can cause redness, swelling and tenderness and, rarely, burns, blisters or nerve irritation. Overtreating fat in a slim face can cause hollowing. Chin filler carries a small but serious risk of vascular occlusion, which requires immediate treatment. See side effects and when to contact us.
Flying home? Swelling after fat-dissolving injections is usually at its most visible for two to three days. Booking early in your trip gives it time to settle before you fly. Read our aftercare guide for more.
How much does double chin treatment cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Treatment | Plan | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Fat-dissolving injection | One facial area, 1 session | ₩69,000 |
| Fat-dissolving injection | One facial area, 3-session course | ₩189,000 |
| Fat-dissolving injection | Under the chin and jowls, 1 session | ₩129,000 |
| InMode Mini FX | One area, per session | ₩129,000 |
| ONDA Lifting | 30,000 J, under the chin or jawline | ₩199,000 |
| Shurink Universe | 300 shots, jawline or under the chin | ₩149,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. Full details on the fat-dissolving injection price page.
Planning double chin treatment around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Send side-profile photos and your dates through our consultation form so the doctor can suggest a plan.
- Avoid your arrival day. Rest first and schedule treatment from day two.
- Treat early in your stay. If you choose injections, early scheduling allows swelling to settle before you fly.
- Getting here. Dernia is in Myeongdong, near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
- Plan the series. If you need more than one session, ask how to continue at home or on your next Seoul visit.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best non-surgical double chin treatment?
It depends on the cause. Fat-dissolving injections and energy devices reduce fat, while HIFU tightens loose skin; many people benefit from a combination.
How many sessions do I need for a double chin?
Fat-dissolving injections usually need two to four sessions, two to four weeks apart. Energy devices are often done as a short series as well.
Is the result permanent?
Treated fat cells are cleared and do not usually return, but remaining fat cells can grow with weight gain, and skin continues to age.
How long does swelling last after fat-dissolving injections?
Swelling is common for two to five days and is usually most noticeable in the first two to three days.
Can I fly after double chin treatment?
Yes. Most people can fly the next day, although swelling after injections may still be visible for a few days.
Does Dernia offer liposuction?
No. Dernia offers non-surgical options only. If surgery may suit you better, the doctor will tell you honestly.
Want to treat a double chin in Seoul?
Send side-profile photos and your travel dates. A doctor examines you in person, explains options in English and confirms your plan and price before treatment.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.