Sagging Jawline? How to Treat Jowls

As we age, it’s natural to notice changes in our appearance, and one common sign of getting older is the development of a sagging jawline. Defined as the loose skin that forms under the chin, jowls can become a source of concern as they alter the shape of the face and can impact self-esteem.

The good news is you don’t need to put up with these unsightly jowls. Both surgical and non-surgical treatment options are available to address the issue. Here, we’ll explore what causes a sagging jawline, and the different treatment options available.

What Causes a Sagging Jawline?

Jowls primarily result from the skin losing its elasticity due to decreased production of collagen and elastin. These two proteins are vital for maintaining the skin’s firmness and suppleness. They typically develop as a natural part of ageing, but various factors can speed up their development.

For example, lifestyle habits like a poor diet, rapid weight loss, repetitive facial expressions, and a lack of exercise, can all contribute to the premature development of jowls. Without ample collagen, skin begins to disconnect from other tissues, leading to sagging and drooping. Chronic nutrient deficiencies can exacerbate this, as skin resilience decreases, and volume loss increases.

Sun exposure has also been linked to an increased likelihood of jowls. Taking preventative measures such as using sunscreen lotion and avoiding harsh sunlight may prevent their development, although research on this currently remains limited.

Surgical Treatment Options for a Sagging Jawline

There are several surgical treatments available to address sagging jowls, leaving you with a more defined and youthful appearance. The most common surgical options include:

Facelift Surgery

A popular surgical option to treat jowls is facelift surgery. This procedure primarily focuses on rectifying loose and sagging skin in the lower face, chin, and jawline. As each person’s situation is unique, a proficient cosmetic surgeon must carry out a thorough evaluation to recommend the best course of action.

Neck Lift Surgery

In some cases, a neck lift might serve as a better alternative to a facelift. This procedure specifically targets the neck and jawline area, helping to tighten sagging skin and create a smoother, more toned appearance. Like with a facelift, a detailed consultation with a plastic surgeon is crucial to determine if a neck lift is the optimal solution.

Non-Surgical Treatments

If surgery isn’t your cup of tea, there are non-surgical options to consider when it comes to treating sagging jowls. Injectable dermal fillers offer one such alternative, used to reduce the visibility of nasolabial folds (also known as smile lines), marionette lines, and to a certain extent, jowls. Do keep in mind, though, that this treatment may not be as effective for severe cases.

While these fillers can make a noticeable difference, they don’t offer a permanent solution. The effects of non-surgical treatments are typically temporary, which means you’ll need to continue treatments to maintain your results.

To discover the best way to treat your jowls, schedule a consultation with leading cosmetic surgeon Mr Paul Tulley.