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Aesthetic Treatments Face

Jowls: Causes, Treatments & Expert Advice at Shape Clinic 

February 19, 2025

Jowls, or sagging skin along the lower jawline, are a common result of the natural ageing process. While they vary in appearance and progression, they are often linked to changes in skin elasticity and underlying muscle tone over time. This article explores the causes of jowls, treatment options, and expert advice from Shape Clinic to help you make informed decisions about your skin health. 

What Are Jowls? 

Jowls refer to the sagging skin that develops along the jawline as the skin loses firmness and elasticity. This is a natural part of the ageing process, though factors such as genetics and lifestyle can influence their severity. While the presence of jowls is entirely normal, they can alter the overall structure of the face. 

What Causes Jowls? 

The appearance of jowls is typically the result of several factors working in combination: 

Natural Ageing 

As we age, the skin’s production of collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans decreases, leading to reduced firmness and elasticity. The gradual loss of these structural proteins weakens the skin’s ability to resist gravitational pull, resulting in sagging. 

Genetics 

Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to develop jowls earlier or more prominently, based on inherited skin structure and elasticity. 

External Factors 

Lifestyle choices and environmental exposures also play a role. Prolonged UV exposure accelerates collagen breakdown, while habits such as smoking can compromise skin health. Significant weight fluctuations may also stretch the skin, contributing to sagging. 

Gravity 

Over time, the cumulative effects of gravity cause the skin and soft tissues to descend, further contributing to the appearance of jowls. 

Common Approaches to Addressing Jowls 

For those looking to manage the appearance of jowls, there are several approaches to consider: 

Skincare 

Topical products containing active ingredients such as retinoids, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and peptides can help support skin firmness and encourage collagen production. While these products are not a solution for pronounced sagging, they can improve overall skin quality and amplify the skins own ability to correct deficiencies 

Lifestyle Adjustments 

Healthy habits such as consistent sun protection, a consistent skincare routine, maintaining hydration, and avoiding smoking contribute to better skin health overall. These measures are preventative rather than corrective but can support long-term skin quality. 

Professional Treatment Options at Shape Clinic 

For more significant improvement in the appearance of jowls, Shape Clinic offers evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs. 

Non-Invasive Treatments 

EMFACE: This advanced treatment combines High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES™) and synchronised radiofrequency (RF) energy to tone facial muscles and tighten skin. By addressing both muscle laxity and skin quality, EMFACE provides a natural, non-invasive lift. 

Ultraformer MPT: Using micro-focused ultrasound technology, Ultraformer stimulates collagen production to improve skin firmness and reduce sagging. It is an effective option for early signs of skin laxity. 

Morpheus8 (RF Microneedling): Combining microneedling with radiofrequency energy, Morpheus8 targets deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin, improving skin texture and firmness. 

Minimally Invasive Options 

Thread Lifts: Thread lifts involve inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to create a lifting effect while stimulating collagen production. Results are temporary and best suited for mild to moderate sagging. 

Surgical Options 

Rhytidectomy (Facelift): For those seeking long-term and significant improvement, a surgical facelift is the most effective solution for addressing jowls. It repositions underlying tissues and removes excess skin. 

Cervicoplasty (necklift): Focused on the neck and jawline, this procedure tightens the skin and underlying muscles for a comprehensive lifting effect. 

Note: Consultations with Shape Clinic experts are essential to determine the most suitable treatment based on individual goals and skin condition. All surgical procedures are performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeons, Dr Steven Liew and Dr Ania Smialkowski 

Maintaining a Healthy Jawline 

Proactive measures can help maintain skin quality and delay the appearance of jowls: 

  • Daily Sun Protection: Use a broad-spectrum SPF to minimise UV-induced collagen breakdown. 
  • Skincare Routine: Incorporate products with proven ingredients such as retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants. 
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Stay hydrated, avoid smoking, and maintain a nutrient-rich diet to support skin health. 
  • Collagen Banking: Maintenance treatments such as EMFACE or Ultraformer MPT can help preserve collagen levels and slow the effects of ageing. 

Regular consultations with a qualified professional are essential for monitoring skin health and tailoring preventative strategies. 

FAQs 

Can you get rid of jowls without surgery? 

Non-surgical options such as EMFACE and Ultraformer MPT can improve the appearance of mild to moderate jowls. For more pronounced jowling, surgical interventions may be necessary  

Does cheek biting cause jowls? 

There is no evidence to suggest that cheek biting directly causes jowls. However, repeated tension or pressure in certain facial areas could potentially affect muscle tone over time. 

Are jowls preventable? 

While jowls are a natural part of ageing, factors such as sun protection, a healthy lifestyle, and collagen-boosting treatments can help delay their onset and minimise their severity. 

Book a Consultation at Shape Clinic 

Addressing jowls effectively requires a combination of informed strategies and expert care. Shape Clinic provides a range of advanced treatment options, from non-invasive technologies like EMFACE to surgical solutions for those seeking more pronounced results. Our tailored approach ensures treatments are aligned with individual needs and goals. 

For expert advice and to explore the best options for your skin and facial structure, book a consultation with Shape Clinic today. 

 

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