If you’re over 40, you’ve probably googled the word “jowls” once or twice to understand the science behind sagging skin in the jawline. With so many cosmetic solutions available today, it’s critical to grasp what can and cannot be done to minimize this aesthetic concern.
What are jowls?
As the skin ages and loses elasticity, the jawline begins to soften and droop. Sagging skin along the jawline is known as a jowl. The degree to which jowls develop depends on many factors, including genetics, lifestyle, weight fluctuation, stress, and gravity, but the condition is treatable through aesthetic procedures.
One of the main reasons that jowls develop has to do with a depleted supply of collagen and elastin. In youth, these compounds keep the skin firm, hydrated, and supple, but as they are depleted with age, the skin begins to droop and succumb to wrinkles, lines, and folds. Smoking and sun damage can also contribute to jowl formation.
At what age do jowls develop?
While it is different for each person, most people begin to see signs of aging appear in their 40’s and 50’s. They may experience a gradual loss of definition in the jawline along with sagging in the neck and lower cheeks.
Can jowls be prevented?
Aging affects each person differently. However, there are definitely actions that can help stave off jowling, including living a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking, and protecting your skin from the sun. If you are constantly on your phone or computer, try to keep your chin neutral instead of bending your chin down toward your chest all the time. Exercise can help provide oxygen to the skin and can assist in the metabolism and discard of toxins.
Do jowl “exercises” help?
Unfortunately, jowl exercises are not typically powerful enough to reduce the signs of facial aging. What’s more, they cannot address the underlying loss of collagen and elastin that leads to jowl formation.
What non-surgical options are available to reduce jowls?
There are a variety of non-surgical, no-downtime options to help improve definition in the lower face. Many dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a key compound in the human body that declines with age. Hyaluronic Acid absorbs water, plumping and rejuvenating facial contours. When injected, facial fillers can help reshape the jawline and cheeks, reducing wrinkles and drooping skin.
Ultherapy is another tool that can help to reverse and diminish jowls. The treatment relies on the power of ultrasonic waves to boost collagen production, firming the skin from the inside out. While results may be seen within just one session, most patients will need multiple appointments to achieve their skin lifting goals.
What surgical options can eliminate jowls?
The most dramatic anti-aging results can be seen with a surgical facelift. This procedure is ideal for firming the jawline, eradicating jowls, tightening the midface, and creating a more youthful, inviting countenance overall. In the hands of a plastic surgeon and aesthetic artist, a facelift can address your cosmetic concerns without sacrificing your unique individuality and facial spontaneity. Fat transfer is also a procedure that can restore a smooth, attractive facial appearance.
Will a neck lift improve jowls?
No. But, a neck lift can help reduce sagging in the neck, correct vertical neck banding, and eliminate wrinkles, creases, and crepe-like skin.
Where can I find before and after photos of jowl treatments?
weberfps.com gallery
What is the takeaway?
Jowls are one of the most common age-related concerns that patients develop in their 40’s and 50’s. While a healthy lifestyle and sun avoidance can help prevent jowl formation to a certain degree, a cosmetic intervention will typically be needed to produce the desired changes. Treatments range from non-invasive dermal fillers and ultherapy to facelift surgery and fat transfer. If you are interested in achieving a more youthful, attractive appearance and want to place your trust in a skilled, experienced plastic surgeon, contact Dr. Weber today!