A jowl lift, also referred to as a lower facelift, can address skin laxity in the lower part of the face, particularly along the jawline and neck.
As we age, the natural decrease in skin elasticity and the effects of gravity can lead to the development of jowls. Jowls are characterised by tissue laxity on the jawline. A jowl lift can focus on the tissue in the area, removing excess tissue and tightening the remaining tissue.
If you’ve ever wondered about the types of results that a lower facelift can achieve, and if the procedure is suitable for you, we recommend booking a consultation with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Hunt in Sydney.
Before your consultation, you can read all about the jowl lift procedure in this blog, where we’ll go over the basics of the procedure, who is a suitable candidate and what to expect in terms of recovery and results.
What is a jowl lift, and how is it performed?
A jowl lift can tighten and lift the tissue along the jawline or the lower face.
It can address skin or tissue that sits below the jawline, creating more jawline definition. It can also address fine lines and wrinkles in the area, including around the mouth (such as marionette lines), by addressing skin laxity. Sometimes, the procedure can also address skin laxity on the neck.
The procedure itself involves using a variety of techniques to lift and tighten the tissue, focusing on the underlying facial structures and skin in the lower face. Incisions are made in the appropriate areas, such as near the ears, and often in areas that will make scarring discreet.
The deeper layers of tissue are then adjusted and repositioned. Excess skin is then removed, and the incisions are carefully closed. The use of advanced techniques, such as addressing the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer, can increase the longevity of the results and prevent overly tightening the skin.
In further detail, the specific steps of the surgery are highly tailored to every patient’s individual needs, which you can discuss when you meet with your surgeon. You’ll be able to discuss where the incisions will be placed and what techniques will be used during your specific procedure.
Who is suitable for a jowl lift?
If you want to address signs of ageing along the lower face and neck, a jowl lift may be suitable. However, other factors must be carefully considered.
As for any type of plastic surgery, candidates should be in good general health, with no medical conditions that could complicate surgery or healing. Additionally, these types of procedures generally shouldn’t be performed on those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The level of skin elasticity in the lower face should also be considered. While the procedure is designed to address skin laxity, having some level of elasticity in the skin can be important for the quality of the results.
It will also be important to have realistic expectations for the procedure, and be able to complete your recovery period by closely following your recovery instructions. Having a good understanding of what the procedure can achieve and the importance of the recovery period shouldn’t be overlooked when determining a candidate’s suitability for any type of procedure.
If you want to find out whether or not you are a suitable candidate for a jowl lift, scheduling a consultation with Dr Hunt is the first step. During your consultation, you can explain the results you would like to achieve, discuss your health, and allow Dr Hunt to assess the quality of your skin in the lower face.
If you’re not suitable for a lower facelift procedure due to a misalignment in the results you want to achieve and the procedure’s capabilities, Dr Hunt may be able to recommend alternative options. Or, if you’re not suitable for a surgical approach, you may be suitable for non-surgical treatments that can target the lower face.
What does recovery involve?
The recovery process after a jowl lift typically involves some swelling, bruising, and tightness in the lower face and neck. Most patients tend to find that the initial swelling subsides significantly within the first two weeks and will continue to see a gradual improvement over the next few months.
During the first week, you’ll need to take it easy, avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. Avoiding frequently bending over and instead aiming to keep your head elevated can help reduce swelling. You can also apply cold compress, which can help to manage discomfort, as well.
The length of the recovery period will vary for each patient. Following Dr Hunt’s instructions, you can gradually resume your normal daily activities, starting with light walking and gradually increasing to slightly more strenuous activities.
Recovery will also involve following instructions for wound care, taking or avoiding medications, and taking other important steps to aid in healing and prevent complications. Since it will take some time for the tissues in the area to settle and heal fully, the final results of the procedure can take some time to show, but a visible difference is often noticeable earlier in recovery.
How long do jowl lift results last?
The results of a jowl lift are generally quite long-lasting, but it will depend on your surgeon’s technique and some individual factors.
By addressing the SMAS layer, Dr Hunt aims to create longer-lasting results than what traditional approaches can achieve. Individual factors like genetics and the natural ageing process will also influence the results later in life.
Taking steps like protecting your skin from sun damage, maintaining a stable weight, and following a good-quality skincare routine can help prolong your results.
Book your consultation for a jowl lift with Dr Hunt in Sydney
Want to learn more about the jowl lift procedure, discuss your suitability and receive a personalised treatment plan? You are welcome to meet with Dr Hunt for a consultation.
Dr Jeremy Hunt is a highly experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon. Over 20+ years of experience, he has treated thousands of patients, each with individual concerns that require a unique, personalised treatment plan to address.
Please contact our team to learn how to arrange your consultation or to ask any questions you may have.
