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Sagging Jowls: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

at Omniya Clinic in London

What are Sagging Jowls?

Sagging jowls are a common cosmetic concern that can subtly alter the contours of your face, making you look older or more tired than you feel. While it’s a natural part of ageing, there are ways to prevent and treat jowls effectively.

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What Treatments are Available at Omniya for Sagging Jowls?

What Are Jowls?

Jowls refer to the sagging skin along the lower cheeks and jawline. This happens when the skin loses its elasticity and begins to droop, creating a less defined jawline and a softer facial contour. Jowls are not just about aesthetics; they’re a visible sign of the ageing process and how the skin’s structure changes over time.

What Are the Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Sagging Jowls?

For those who are already experiencing sagging jowls, there are highly effective non-surgical treatments available that can rejuvenate and lift the skin.

1. Botox for Sagging Jowls

Botox is often associated with wrinkle reduction, but it can also be used strategically to soften the appearance of sagging jowls.

  • How it works: Botox relaxes the muscles that pull the jawline downward, allowing the lifting muscles to create a more defined contour. This is commonly referred to as the “Nefertiti Neck Lift.”
  • Best for: Subtle improvements and cases where muscle pull is a significant contributor to jowls.

 


2. Laser-Based Treatments

BBL Hero and Moxi

  • BBL Hero: While primarily used for pigmentation and skin tone issues, BBL therapy stimulates collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin, which can subtly firm the jawline over time.
  • Moxi: This gentle laser treatment addresses early signs of ageing by promoting collagen renewal. While more effective for surface-level rejuvenation, it complements other tightening treatments for mild sagging.

 

Fractional Laser

Fractional lasers create tiny micro-injuries in the skin, triggering a healing response that boosts collagen production.

  • Best for: Improving skin tone, texture, and firmness. While not a standalone solution for severe jowls, it works well for early-stage sagging.

 

Laser for Skin Rejuvenation (Including IPL)

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) targets pigmentation, redness, and dullness while encouraging collagen renewal.

  • Best for: Complementing other treatments to refresh the skin’s overall appearance and reduce mild sagging.

 


3. Morpheus8

Morpheus8 is one of the most effective treatments for addressing sagging jowls. It combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to target deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissues.

  • How it works: The microneedles deliver radiofrequency energy deep into the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This not only tightens the skin but also helps to remodel fat for a more contoured appearance.
  • Best for: Moderate sagging and those looking for a non-invasive alternative to surgery.

 


4. Radiofrequency Skin Tightening

Radiofrequency (RF) treatments use controlled heat to contract collagen fibres and encourage new collagen growth.

  • How it works: The heat penetrates deep into the skin, improving firmness and elasticity over time.
  • Best for: Mild to moderate sagging, especially when used as part of a maintenance routine.

 


5. Microneedling with Dermapen or SkinPen

Microneedling involves creating tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production.

  • How it works: These controlled micro-injuries encourage the skin to repair itself, improving texture, firmness, and elasticity.
  • Best for: Early signs of sagging or as a complementary treatment to enhance other therapies.

 

What Causes Jowls to Develop?

Almost everyone experiences sagging jowls to some degree as they age. However, the severity and onset can vary widely depending on several factors:

1. Age

Sagging jowls typically become noticeable in the late 30s or 40s and can progress with age. This is due to the natural decline in collagen and elastin, proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and supple.

2. Genetics

If your parents or close family members developed jowls, you’re more likely to experience them as well. Genetics influence how your skin ages and how much support your underlying facial structures provide.

3. Lifestyle Choices

  • Sun Exposure: UV rays accelerate the breakdown of collagen, causing skin to age prematurely.
  • Smoking: Smoking restricts blood flow to the skin, reducing its ability to repair itself and maintain elasticity.
  • Diet: A poor diet lacking in essential nutrients can weaken the skin’s structure over time.

 

4. Weight Fluctuations

Significant weight loss can leave skin stretched and less elastic, while rapid weight gain can strain the skin’s natural structure.

5. Stress and Lack of Sleep

Chronic stress and poor sleep hygiene can increase cortisol levels, which accelerates collagen loss and affects the skin’s ability to rejuvenate.

What Causes Sagging Jowls?

Sagging jowls occur due to a combination of factors that affect the skin, fat, and muscles in the lower face:

  • Loss of Collagen and Elastin:

As we age, our body produces less collagen and elastin, leading to skin that is thinner, weaker, and less resilient.

  • Gravity:

Over time, gravity takes its toll, pulling the skin downward and creating sagging along the jawline.

  • Loss of Fat Volume:

Fat pads in the cheeks shrink and shift downward with age, reducing the support that keeps the skin lifted.

  • Bone Density Loss:

Facial bones also lose density with age, providing less structural support to the skin and soft tissues.

How to Prevent Sagging Jowls

While some factors like genetics and ageing can’t be controlled, there are proactive steps you can take to delay the onset of sagging jowls:

1. Use Sunscreen Daily

UV damage is one of the leading causes of collagen breakdown. Protecting your skin with a high-SPF sunscreen can slow down the ageing process.

2. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key for maintaining skin elasticity. Drink plenty of water and use hydrating skincare products, such as hyaluronic acid-based serums.

3. Skincare with Active Ingredients

Incorporate products with retinol, peptides, and vitamin C to stimulate collagen production and improve skin resilience.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins supports skin health. Foods like salmon, avocados, spinach, and berries are great choices.

5. Avoid Smoking

Smoking accelerates skin ageing by damaging collagen and reducing oxygen flow to the skin. Quitting can have a profound effect on your skin’s health and appearance.

Sagging Jowls FAQs

What are sagging jowls?

Sagging jowls refer to the drooping of skin along the jawline and lower cheeks, a common sign of ageing caused by the loss of collagen, elastin, and facial fat. They can make the jawline appear less defined and alter the overall contour of the face.

Who is most likely to develop sagging jowls?

Anyone can develop sagging jowls, but they are most common in people over 40. Genetics, lifestyle choices, and skin type can influence how early or prominently jowls appear.

Can sagging jowls be prevented?

While you can’t completely prevent sagging jowls, you can potentially slow their development by:

  • Using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
  • Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3s.
  • Staying hydrated to keep skin plump and elastic.
  • Avoiding smoking, which accelerates collagen breakdown.
  • Incorporating active skincare ingredients, such as retinol or peptides, into your routine.

Does Botox help with sagging jowls?

Botox can be used to treat sagging jowls in some cases. By relaxing the muscles that pull the jawline downward, Botox allows the lifting muscles to create a more contoured and defined appearance. This is often referred to as the “Nefertiti Neck Lift.”

Are non-surgical treatments for sagging jowls painful?

Non-surgical treatments for sagging jowls are generally well-tolerated. Most involve little to no discomfort, though some treatments like Morpheus8 may cause mild sensations such as warmth or tingling. A topical numbing cream is often applied to ensure comfort during the procedure.

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