Jowls on the face

What are jowls on the face?

Jowls on the face refer to the sagging of tissues in the lower third of the face. This condition is known as gravitational ptosis, involving fatty tissue, muscle fibers, and skin. Since the sagging begins in the upper part of the cheek’s fat tissue, the upper and middle parts of the face are also affected — the soft tissues in the temple areas become thinner, hollows under the eyes deepen, the nasolabial fold becomes more pronounced, and the corners of the mouth droop — all of which contribute to a tired-looking face.

Therefore, eliminating jowls is not only about achieving well-defined contours and a lifted facial shape, but also about improving the overall appearance of the face and rejuvenating the skin.

What causes jowls to appear

The formation of jowls on the face should not be associated exclusively with age-related changes in the body. Sagging cheeks can also appear in quite young people. Identifying the cause of jowls and addressing it is an important step in combating unwanted facial contour deformation.

Cosmetic doctors identify the main causes of jowl formation on the face:

1. Age-related changes. As we age, the synthesis of collagen and elastin gradually decreases. These are proteins responsible for the firmness and elasticity of muscles and skin. When they are deficient, the face loses tone and begins to “sag,” leading to the appearance of jowls.
2. Excess weight. Jowls often appear together with a double chin, as these facial areas are prone to fat accumulation.
3. Lymphatic stagnation. Disrupted lymph flow leads to facial puffiness, which causes the skin to lose its firmness, contributing to tissue ptosis and the formation of jowls.
4. Hormonal imbalances, which may result from illnesses, medication use, pregnancy, and other factors.
5. Jaw and facial structure issues, such as an incorrect bite, wisdom teeth eruption, or trauma that disrupts the natural positioning of the jaw.

Lifestyle can also contribute to the formation of jowls — lack of physical activity, sedentary work with neck strain, and improper body positioning during sleep all play a role.

How to get rid of jowls on the face?

Jowls can visually spoil even the most flawless face. But why do women often put up with this issue? The reason is that in the past, this aesthetic flaw could only be corrected through surgery. Today, however, there are cosmetic procedures that are considered alternatives to surgical lifts — but with a major advantage: no pain, complications, or long recovery periods.

The most effective cosmetic procedures for treating jowls are SMAS lifting with Ulthera therapy and microneedling RF lifting with Morpheus 8.

SMAS Lifting with Ulthera Therapy

Modern cosmetology is becoming serious competition for plastic surgery, with a major advantage: non-surgical rejuvenation comes without complications. For example, SMAS lifting with Ulthera therapy is a procedure in which cells are heated by ultrasound waves to a safe temperature of 70°C. This thermal effect helps break down old, deformed collagen and stimulates the accelerated production of new collagen. As a result, the collagen fiber structure is restored. The synthesis of elastin — which also plays a key role in skin firmness and elasticity — is also stimulated.

The depth of pulse penetration (1.5–4.5 mm) allows the treatment to affect the skin, subcutaneous fat — essentially all the layers affected by ptosis. After examining the face, the cosmetic doctor chooses the optimal technique: this could be a targeted approach on limited areas or a linear technique to cover a larger zone.

Cosmetic concerns that SMAS lifting helps address:

• jowls;
• facial sagging;
• undefined facial contours;
• double chin;
• malar bags (under-eye puffiness over the cheekbones).

How does the procedure work?

Since SMAS lifting is a non-invasive technique, anesthesia is not used. The patient may feel mild discomfort and warmth. A special gel is applied to the skin in the treatment area to ensure the ultrasound waves penetrate properly and to allow smooth movement during the linear technique.

SMAS Ulthera therapy has a prolonged effect — active collagen and elastin synthesis continues for about 6 months, during which the patient achieves the maximum and final result. The first visible effect appears 2–3 months after the procedure — noticeable lifting and rejuvenation, reduction in volume in the lower third of the face, and decreased puffiness.

SMAS lifting is recommended both to treat existing issues and to prevent age-related changes and the formation of jowls.

Microneedling RF Lifting with Morpheus 8

Microneedling RF lifting is a minimally invasive procedure that works by heating tissues with the help of radiofrequency waves. This thermal effect accelerates the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which gives the tissues firmness and elasticity, while the stimulation of fibroblast activity leads to faster regeneration.

Microneedling RF lifting helps address the following concerns:

• jowls;
• double chin;
• loss of skin tone;
• facial ptosis (sagging);
• fine wrinkles.

The procedure is also effective in treating skin irregularities, post-acne marks, scars, and enlarged pores.

How does the procedure work?

Microneedling RF lifting is performed under local anesthesia: a numbing cream is applied to the face and covered with a film. After about 15–20 minutes, the cosmetic doctor treats the entire face using a handpiece with 24 microneedles. The procedure can be combined with various serums or treatments for enhanced results — thanks to the microneedles, the active ingredients penetrate deeply into the dermis. For quick recovery and painless healing, polynucleotides and exosomes are used. The procedure is finished with a soothing cream and sun protection.

The first results from RF lifting appear within 1.5 to 2 months — reduction of jowls, double chin, nasolabial folds, and wrinkles; a more defined contour; firm, glowing skin.

Microneedling RF lifting with Morpheus 8 is recommended at the first signs of aging to prevent facial sagging, as well as for rejuvenating more mature skin with visible signs of aging.

Preventing the appearance of jowls on the face

Preventing jowls involves consistent facial care. To reduce the risk of their initial appearance or recurrence after cosmetic procedures, it is recommended to:

• protect the skin from ultraviolet rays and environmental factors;
• visit a cosmetologist for professional skin nourishment and hydration;
• eat a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients;
• drink enough clean water to stay hydrated;
• engage in physical activity to stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage;
• maintain good posture.

It’s important to understand that these measures are most effective when combined with a professional cosmetic approach.

Want to know how to get rid of jowls on the face in your specific case and achieve a well-defined, lifted facial contour? Book an appointment with the cosmetologists at LeoDerm in Lviv today and receive a free professional consultation!