Mild to moderate jowls are usually treated with energy-based lifting such as SMA:LT, Ultherapy or Thermage, or with a thread lift. The best option depends on how much skin, fat and laxity you have. Heavy excess skin generally needs a surgical facelift or neck lift.
Why jowls form
With age, skin loses elasticity, fat shifts downward and the support under the skin loosens, which blurs the line between the cheek and the jaw.
Options compared
- SMA:LT: microwave energy for the under-cheek and jawline, adjusted for fat and skin thickness
- Ultherapy Prime: focused ultrasound at set depths, guided by imaging
- Thermage FLX: radiofrequency for skin laxity and fine lines
- Thread lift: absorbable threads that support sagging tissue
- Facelift or neck lift: for significant excess skin
How we choose
We look at skin thickness, fat, how far the tissue has dropped and what you have had before. Many patients combine an energy treatment with threads; others need surgery for a lasting result.
Frequently asked questions
Can jowls be fixed without surgery?
Mild to moderate jowls often respond to energy treatments or threads. Heavy excess skin usually needs surgery.
Which works best for jowls: Ultherapy or a thread lift?
They work differently. See thread lift vs HIFU.
One concern, several specialists
The same concern can need a device, an injection, surgery or simply better skin care. Our skin, plastic surgery, pain and regenerative medicine doctors look at it together and recommend the least you need for the result you want.
Medically reviewed by the MS Longevity Clinic medical team.
Not sure which treatment?
Send us a few photos and we will suggest options before you book.
Treatment method and number of sessions are decided after consultation. Results and recovery time vary from person to person. See our medical disclaimer.