Our awake chin liposuction gives patients in Austin, TX, a defined jawline and a smoother neck profile – without general anesthesia. The liposuction is performed in our office by double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Venkata Erella, who uses local anesthetic so you stay comfortable, alert, and able to go home a few minutes after the procedure.
Awake chin liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that removes stubborn fat from beneath the chin (the submental area), along the jowls, and across the upper neck using only local anesthesia – with an oral sedative. Instead of placing the patient fully asleep, the treatment area is thoroughly numbed while they remain conscious and responsive.
The technique follows the same surgical principles as traditional liposuction: tiny access points, a fine cannula, and controlled fat removal that respects the surrounding tissue. We also use a SmartLipo laser to tighten the skin at the same time. What changes is the anesthesia – and with it, the setting. No general anesthesia means the procedure can be performed in our office suite rather than a hospital or surgery center.
Consultations are conducted directly with your surgeon. Dr. Erella performs a physical exam, reviews your medical history and medications, discusses your goals, and determines whether an in-office awake procedure is appropriate. You’ll receive a specific plan and a clear cost estimate.
A $100 scheduling fee reserves your consultation date and time. If you proceed with surgery and it’s performed within three months of your consultation, that fee is deducted from your surgical fees.
The procedure relies on tumescent technique – a diluted solution of saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine infused into the treatment area before any fat is removed. This numbs the tissue, constricts small blood vessels to limit bleeding and bruising, and firms the fat layer so it can be extracted with precision.
Most awake chin procedures take under an hour of active treatment time.
Days 1–3. Expect swelling, firmness, and mild soreness under the chin. Wear your compression garment as directed – it’s central to how your contour settles. Sleep with your head elevated. Most patients manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief.
Days 4–7. Swelling begins easing. Many patients return to work in this window. Continue compression per your instructions.
Weeks 2–4. Bruising resolves. Some firmness or numbness under the chin is normal as tissue heals. Gradually resume exercise once cleared usually after two weeks.
Months 1–3. Residual swelling continues to fade, and the contour refines. Incisions mature and lighten.
Contact our office by phone at (512) 730-3885 with any concerns during recovery.
Early improvement is often visible within one to two weeks, but the fully settled result develops over three to six months as swelling resolves and skin retracts over the new contour.
What patients typically notice: a sharper transition between jaw and neck, less fullness in profile view, a reduced double chin, a more youthful and balanced facial profile, and better fit around the collar.
Because the removed fat cells are gone permanently, results are durable when weight remains stable. Significant future weight gain can add volume to remaining cells, and natural aging still affects skin quality over time.
You may be a strong candidate if you:
Significant skin laxity in the neck usually needs tightening rather than fat removal. A prominent contour caused primarily by bone structure or salivary gland position won’t change with liposuction. Dr. Erella offers mini neck and facelifts, and full facelift/neck lift surgery, so the recommendation can be matched to the actual cause.
The only way to know which category you fall into is a physical exam with Dr. Erella. Call (512) 730-3885 to schedule online.
Definition where it’s most visible. The jawline and neck frame every photograph, video call, and first impression. Improvement here reads immediately.
Awake chin liposuction in the Austin area generally ranges from $5,000 to $7,000, depending on the areas treated – chin alone versus chin, jowls, and neck – the extent of fat removal, and the complexity of your case.
Financing is available through Alphaeon, CareCredit, PatientFi, and Cherry.
Call (512) 730-3885 for a personalized quote.
“I had double chin liposuction with Dr. Erella, and I’m really happy with the results. The procedure was smooth, he was very professional, and looks natural and exactly what I wanted. Highly recommend.”
– Nadeen Hussein
“I went with Dr. Erella for a Smart Lipo procedure under the chin and all I can say is that I’m really happy with my results. He explained the procedure very well and answered all my questions. I would highly recommend him.”
“I loved everything about this office! Went in for chin smart lipo and Dr. Erella was amazing to work with. From my initial consultation until my procedure, him and his staff continuously called to check up on me. During the procedure, Dr. Erella was always making sure I was comfortable and would walk me through each of the steps he was going through. I really couldn’t have asked for a better doctor! 10/10 highly recommend.”
– Brenda Cuevas
“I’ve had 4 hydrafacials with Taylor so far and am LOVING the results! For the last 2 years I’ve had really dry patches on some parts of my face while at the same time having clogged pores around my nose and chin. I saw results after the 1st hydrafacial but the cummulative effect of the series has been astounding. The dry patches are gone, I’ve got way less blackheads and am constantly getting compliments on my skin. Taylor is very attentive and dedicated to providing top notch service. She even did a deep dive into all of the ingredients in the hydrafacial and Skinceuticals products to make sure we didn’t use anything with propylene glycol (I’m allergic!). I’m hooked!”
– Vallie Aris
Once the local anesthetic takes effect, the area is numb. Most patients report pressure or tugging rather than pain. The numbing injections are the most noticeable part and pass quickly.
Yes. When performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon, it’s a very safe procedure – and using local anesthesia minimizes the risks associated with general anesthesia.
Any surgical procedure results in a scar. Chin liposuction incisions are only a few millimeters – typically less than a cm– and are placed in concealed locations under the chin and behind the earlobes, where they typically fade to near-invisibility.
Most patients return to work and light activities within two to five days, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks.
Often, yes – chin liposuction can be paired with other facial rejuvenation treatments and 360 lipo. A physical exam determines what can safely be combined in-office versus what’s better performed under general anesthesia.
A physical exam by Dr. Erella is required. He’ll assess your fat distribution, skin elasticity, and underlying structure to confirm whether awake chin liposuction will achieve your goals.
Yes. Removed fat cells do not regrow. Maintaining a stable weight preserves your result.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Erella to find out whether awake chin liposuction is the right fit for you.
