Aging results in skin becoming thinner and less radiant. The loss of elasticity and reduced collagen production leads to sagging and wrinkles. Two common problem areas for signs of aging are the lower half of the face at the jawline and neck.  Until recently, surgery was the only effective method to reduce the appearance and effects of jowls. However, a non-surgical jowl lift using dermal fillers is now offered to address the concerns.

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This Los Angeles patient was treated with Radiesse for a non-surgical jowl lift.*

THE APPEARANCE OF JOWLS

Aging and gravity eventually causes tissue to sag downward. This creates jowls since the skin and tissue on the face droop towards the chin and neck. Jowls compromise the symmetry of the face and appearance suffers. Other contributors to jowls include sun damage, smoking, reduction of muscle mass, genetics and a poor diet.

Jowls typically first appear in the forties. The loss of facial volume at this time is amplified with other factors. For those who have a fuller face, jowls may not appear for another ten years or so. For those with a thin face, they may appear earlier. A non-surgical jowl lift is most effective in the earlier stages of jowl formation.

JOWL TREATMENT OPTIONS

Four ways to counteract jowls are facial exercises, skin tightening treatments, a non-surgical jowl lift with dermal fillers and face lift or mini facelift with surgery.

Skin Tightening

Thermage, a non-ablative treatment technique, uses electric and magnetic energy to tighten skin. Treatments with skin-tightening devices work well on those who have the first signs of aging.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra Aesthetic, Restylane or Juvéderm are used to lift cheekbones. This non-surgical jowl lift counteracts the sagging of the lower face and prevalence of jowls for more symmetry. If deeply injected, the fillers uplift both regions.

Surgery

Both a facelift and mini facelift with address sagging tissue and the jowels. Muscles in the face are tightened and either the lower face or entire face is uplifted.

NON-SURGICAL JOWL LIFT INJECTABLES

The procedure for a non-surgical jowl lift takes about 30 minutes. Results are immediate, there is no downtime and side effects are minor. To make the injections more pleasant, numbing creams or local anesthesia may be used.

Radiesse is one of the preferred dermal injectables due to its ability to provide structural support. It is a calcium hyroxylapatite. Results last 12 to 18 months on average. Restylane or Juvéderm are used to prevent the onset of jowels or if volume rather structure is needed. Both are hyaluronic acid dermal fillers that last from four to six months.

This is an examples of the patient who had the procedure.

Due to nuances of injectables, it’s best to consult with a board certified physician to determine the best course of action.