What is a Jowl Lift? – Solutions for Heavy Jowls

28 Dec What is a Jowl Lift? – Solutions for Heavy Jowls

Heavy Jowls: Causes, Treatments, and Results

Heavy jowls can affect the shape of your face – this happens to many people, especially as they age. Jowls develop for several reasons, including a natural loss of skin elasticity over time, genetics, and even lifestyle factors like sun exposure or weight fluctuations. While they’re completely normal, they can change the way your face looks. If you’ve been wondering how to address heavy jowls, you might have come across the term jowl lift. This procedure is designed to target heavy excess skin around the jawline, but what exactly does it involve, and is it the right choice for you?

Perth Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr. Guy Watts has many years of experience performing facial procedures. With a focus on optimal results, he offers solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs, helping you explore the options that align with your goals.

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What Are Jowls?

Jowls refer to the heavy or excess skin along the lower jawline. As we age, changes in the skin and supporting structures of the face can lead to this issue, which is a natural part of the ageing process. While some people may develop noticeable jowls earlier in life due to genetics, others may experience more subtle changes over time.

From an anatomical perspective, jowls result from the loss of elasticity in the skin, weakening of connective tissues, loss of facial fat pads and the effects of gravity. The jawline, which is typically defined in younger individuals, can begin to lose its structure as these factors come into play.

Several causes contribute to the development of jowls:

1. Ageing

One of the primary reasons for jowl formation is the natural ageing process. Over time, the production of collagen and elastin in the skin decreases, leading to a loss of firmness and elasticity. This causes the skin to become lax, particularly in areas where it is already prone to gravity’s pull, like the jawline and cheeks.

2. Gravity

Gravity affects everyone, and its long-term effects become more evident as we age. The soft tissues in the face can shift downward, contributing to the appearance of jowls.

3. Genetics

If your family has a history of jowls, you may be more likely to develop them. Some individuals are genetically predisposed to changes in the skin and facial structure that lead to laxity along the jawline.

4. Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle choices can accelerate the appearance of jowls. For instance:

• Sun/weather exposure damages collagen and elastin in the skin.
• Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin, impairing its ability to repair and regenerate.
• Weight fluctuations can stretch the skin, reducing its ability to snap back into place.

Jowls can subtly change the balance of your facial features. For some, this might mean the loss of a defined jawline, which can alter the overall structure of the face.

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What Is a Jowl Lift?

A jowl lift is a procedure designed to address lax heavy skin and tissues along the jawline and lower face. Depending on your needs and goals, a jowl lift can be performed as part of a broader facelift or as a standalone treatment targeting this specific area.

The Surgical Approach

A surgical jowl lift involves lifting and repositioning the skin and underlying tissues to restore definition to the jawline. The procedure typically includes the following steps:

1. Anaesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you’re comfortable throughout.
2. Incisions: Small incisions are made around the ears or in natural creases to reduce visible scarring.
3. Repositioning and Tightening: The underlying facial tissues are lifted and repositioned, and any excess skin is removed.
4. Closure: The incisions are carefully closed to allow for optimal healing and discreet results.

The procedure can address both skin and deeper structural concerns, offering a result that should last over time.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Jowl Lift?

A jowl lift isn’t a one-size-fits-all procedure, and not everyone with concerns about their jawline will be a good candidate. However, there are certain characteristics that might indicate a good fit for this treatment.

1. Visible Heaviness Along the Jawline

If you’ve noticed that your jawline has lost its definition or that the skin around this area has started to hang, a jowl lift may help address these concerns.

2. Good Overall Health

Being in good general health is essential for any surgical procedure. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain cardiovascular issues may increase surgical risks, so these factors will be discussed during your consultation.

3. Realistic Expectations

A jowl lift can make a significant difference in how you feel about your jawline, but it’s not about perfection. The procedure is designed to provide subtle, natural adjustments rather than drastic changes. Dr Watts will ensure you understand the likely outcomes so you can make an informed decision.

4. Non-Surgical Options Aren’t Enough

For individuals with more pronounced laxity, non-surgical treatments may not provide the level of correction needed. In these cases, a surgical jowl lift may offer the most effective and lasting option.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The process will be explained in detail during your consultation with Dr Watts. Here’s a general overview of what to expect.

1. Initial Consultation

The journey begins with a personalised consultation where Dr Watts will carefully assess your facial anatomy, discuss your concerns, and explain the options available. He will take the time to understand your goals and make a treatment recommendation that is tailored to your individual needs. During this session, you’ll also learn about the potential risks and benefits, helping you make an informed decision.

2. The Surgical Procedure

If a surgical jowl lift is the chosen option, the procedure typically involves the following steps:

• Anaesthesia: The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia to manage your comfort throughout.
• Incisions: Small, carefully placed incisions are made, often around the ears or in natural creases to minimise visible scarring.
• Repositioning and Tightening: The underlying tissues and muscles are lifted and secured, and any excess skin is removed. This helps to create a more defined jawline and smoother contours.
• Closure: The incisions are closed with fine sutures, and a dressing may be applied to protect the area as it begins to heal.

The surgery is typically completed within a few hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

3. Recovery Process

After the procedure, you’ll need some time to recover. Dr Watts will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which may include:

• Keeping the area clean and dry.
• Avoiding strenuous activities for a recommended period.
• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

While some swelling and bruising are normal, these should gradually subside over the following weeks. Most patients feel comfortable returning to normal activities within two to three weeks, though full healing may take longer.

Potential Benefits of a Jowl Lift

A jowl lift can provide changes in the appearance of the lower face and jawline, but it’s important to focus on the realistic outcomes of the procedure. Below are some of the benefits that patients may experience after undergoing a jowl lift:

1. Jawline Definition

A well-executed jowl lift helps restore a more defined and balanced jawline. By addressing heavy excess skin and underlying tissue, the procedure can change facial contours, making the transition between the face and neck appear smoother.

2. Natural-Looking Results

One of the primary goals of a jowl lift is to achieve results that look natural and harmonise with your overall facial features. Dr Watts draws on his experience in facial surgery to plan procedures that are tailored to your individual features, aiming for results that are in harmony with your natural facial structure

3. Long-Lasting Effects

While non-surgical treatments can offer temporary improvements, a surgical jowl lift provides results that last over time.

4. Addressing Both Skin and Structural Concerns

Unlike some non-invasive options, a jowl lift targets not only the skin but also the deeper layers of tissue. This comprehensive approach allows for more effective and enduring corrections.

5. Improved Symmetry

In some cases, uneven laxity can make one side of the face look different from the other. A jowl lift helps restore symmetry by addressing these differences, creating a more balanced appearance.

It’s essential to have a thorough discussion with Dr Watts about what you can expect from the procedure, ensuring your goals align with realistic outcomes.

Alternatives to a Jowl Lift

While a jowl lift can be an effective solution for some, it’s not the only option available. For patients with milder concerns or those who prefer less invasive approaches, some alternatives may be worth considering.

✓ Thread Lifts

A thread lift is a less invasive procedure that involves the insertion of dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten specific areas. This treatment is often used for mild laxity and may provide immediate results. However, the effects are typically temporary, lasting 12 to 24 months.

✓ Skin Tightening Devices

There are various devices designed to improve skin firmness using energy-based technologies. These treatments work by stimulating collagen production and can help reduce mild laxity. While they offer a non-invasive option, the results are generally more subtle and require multiple sessions for optimal effect.

✓ Lifestyle Adjustments

For those who aren’t ready for a procedure, certain lifestyle changes may help improve the appearance of jowls or prevent further laxity from occurring:

• Maintaining a healthy weight can manage excess skin caused by weight fluctuations.
• Protecting your skin from the sun reduces damage to collagen and elastin.
• Using high-quality skincare products can support skin health and improve its texture over time.

✓ Combining Treatments

In some cases, a combination of non-surgical treatments may provide the desired results. Dr Watts can discuss these options with you during your consultation to create a customised plan tailored to your specific concerns.

Important Considerations

While these alternatives may offer improvements in some cases, they are generally best suited for mild to moderate laxity. Patients with more pronounced jowls may find that a surgical lift offers the most effective and lasting outcome.

Dr Watts will help you explore the full range of options and guide you toward the treatment that aligns with your goals and preferences.

FAQs about Jowl Lift and Heavy Jowls

Further Reading about Face Procedures

• Read more about Sunken Eyes – Causes and Solutions
• Read more about Heavy Neck – Causes and Solutions
• Read more about Swelling and Bruising after Blepharoplasty
• Read more about What Is Facial Asymmetry
• Read more about 7 Tips to Reduce Bruising after Facelift Surgery

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