Jowls are the soft bulges that form below the corners of the mouth and break the clean line of the jaw. They are one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of facial ageing, and they are the main reason many people consider a facelift.
Why do jowls form?
The cheek and jaw are held in place by retaining ligaments and a supportive layer called the SMAS. With age these supports loosen, fat in the cheek descends, the skin loses elasticity and the bone of the jaw slowly remodels. Tissue that once sat over the cheekbone slides down until it collects in front of the jaw ligament, forming a jowl.
What makes jowls worse?
Genetics, sun exposure, smoking, significant weight loss and a naturally heavy lower face all make jowls appear earlier or more obvious.
Non-surgical options
Filler along the jawline or in the cheeks can camouflage mild jowling by restoring support. Thread lifts give a modest, temporary lift. Energy-based treatments such as radiofrequency may tighten skin a little. None of these reposition the deeper tissues, so the effect on established jowls is limited.
Minimally invasive tightening
FaceTite uses radiofrequency under the skin to tighten tissues and remove small amounts of fat through tiny incisions. It suits people with early laxity who are not ready for a facelift.
Mini facelift and facelift
A mini facelift lifts and tightens the lower face through shorter incisions and suits early jowls. A full facelift, and in particular a deep plane facelift, releases the retaining ligaments and repositions the descended cheek and jowl tissue, restoring the jawline in a way that non-surgical treatments cannot.
Choosing the right option
The right treatment depends on how much laxity you have, your skin quality and what you want to achieve. Mr Nassab will examine your face and explain the realistic results of each option.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age do jowls appear?
Often in the 40s, but earlier with genetics, sun damage or weight loss.
Can you get rid of jowls without surgery?
Mild jowls can be improved or camouflaged with filler or skin tightening, but established jowls usually need surgery.
Does a mini facelift fix jowls?
A mini facelift can treat early jowling; more advanced jowls usually need a full or deep plane facelift.
How long does a facelift last?
Many patients enjoy their result for ten years or more.
