With age, the natural loss of fat and collagen in the cheeks can cause them to descend, leading to the development of jowls. Jowls are pockets of skin that form near the jawline and around the mouth, gradually.
While jowls are generally harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern. At Advanced Dermatology’s offices in Lincolnshire and Glencoe, we offer non-surgical treatments designed to lift and restore volume to the cheeks and reduce the appearance of jowls.
What Causes Jowls and Cheek Sagging?
Jowls and midface or cheek sagging often result in a more rectangular or bottom-heavy facial appearance, which contrasts with the heart-shaped contours commonly associated with youth and beauty.
Jowls are caused by a loss of collagen and elastin, which are structural proteins that give skin its fitness and elasticity. Other factors contributing to sagging cheeks and the development of jowls include gravity and muscle activity (years of facial movements contribute to sagging), genetics, and lifestyle factors like smoking and sun exposure can also accelerate these changes.
Can You Prevent Jowls?
While aging is inevitable, there are some steps you can take to help delay or reduce the severity of jowls. This includes using sunscreen every day and using collagen stimulating creams or gels (such as growth factors and retinols/retinoids).
Healthy lifestyle habits can also help like avoiding smoking, staying hydrated, and maintaining a stable weight.
The Role of the Cheeks in Facial Aging
The cheeks are a central feature of the face. When full and lifted, they contribute to a youthful look. As they lose volume due to the loss of collagen, fat, and underlying fat and bone, they tend to also lose their roundness. This causes sagging which then accentuates the lines around the mouth, nasolabial folds (more commonly referred to as ‘smile lines’), as well as jowls.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Jowls and Cheeks
There are several cosmetic non-surgical treatment options for jowls and cheeks. It’s important to talk with your provider about which option is best for you.
Injectable Fillers
Injectable fillers are a great way to treat jowls and sagging cheeks. They work by restoring volume to the impacted area. Popular options offered at Advanced Dermatology include Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® VOLUX® XC. When injected, these fillers enhance volume, lifting and contouring the lower face, for a more youthful appearance. They also help lessen the appearance of wrinkles.
Skin-Tightening Procedures
Skin-tightening procedures are also good options to help treat jowls. Ultherapy® is a non-invasive skin tightening procedure that uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production.
Liquid Facelift
Liquid Facelift injections can also treat jowls. A liquid facelift consists of a provider injecting different liquid fillers into the upper cheeks, jowls, or other facial areas. The provider may use different fillers on different facial areas. This helps not only prevent sagging, but also improves the appearance of wrinkles.
The non-surgical treatment options for jowls and sagging cheeks all require minimal downtime, making them good options for many.
Am I a Good Candidate for Jowl and Cheek Treatment?
You may be a good candidate for jowl and cheek treatments if you are beginning to notice sagging skin along the jawline or lower face, a loss of volume or fullness in your cheeks, a change in face shape, or a deepening in nasolabial folds.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re noticing sagging around your jawline or a loss of definition in your cheeks, we can help. Schedule a consultation with Advanced Dermatology today to explore the best treatment options for your skin. Contact us to book your appointment in Lincolnshire or Glencoe.
