What are jowls?
Jowls describe the soft or sagging skin that appears along the jawline, usually below the cheeks and beside the mouth. This change can create a heavier look in the lower face or reduce jawline definition.
Jowls are a common part of ageing. They relate to changes in skin elasticity, facial volume, and the structure that supports the lower face. Some people seek professional guidance to understand why jowls develop and to explore supportive options with a qualified practitioner.
What causes jowls?
Cause #1 – Volume changes
The fat pads in the mid and lower face naturally shift with age. As these areas lose support, the skin along the jawline may appear softer.
Cause #2 – Skin laxity
Collagen and elastin levels reduce over time. This affects how firm the skin feels and how well it holds its shape along the jawline.
Cause #3 – Bone structure changes
Subtle changes in the jawbone and cheekbones occur with ageing. These shifts reduce support for nearby tissues.
Cause #4 – Lower face muscle activity
Some facial muscles can contribute to a downward pull around the mouth and jawline. Over time, this may make jowls more noticeable.
Cause #5 – Genetics
Inherited features like facial shape, skin elasticity, and fat distribution can influence when and how jowls appear.
Changes along the jawline can also make the mouth corners turn down.
Why do I have jowls and others don’t?
Factor #1 – Facial anatomy
People with stronger bone structure or more evenly distributed facial fat may maintain support for longer.
Factor #2 – Genetics
Family patterns play a significant role. If close relatives developed jowls earlier, you may notice similar changes.
Factor #3 – Skin quality
Hydration, sun protection, and general skincare habits can affect how the skin ages.
Factor #4 – Weight and ageing changes
Weight fluctuations and natural ageing influence the firmness of the lower face and jawline.
Living with jowls
Jowls are a normal part of facial ageing. Some people notice:
- A softer jawline contour
- Folds beside the mouth
- Makeup sitting unevenly along the jawline
Some people are not bothered by it. Others choose to seek advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can help me understand my jowls?
A consultation with a qualified practitioner can assess your facial structure, skin quality, and age related changes. This helps identify what may be contributing to your concerns.
Are the changes permanent?
Ageing is ongoing. Some approaches may be longer lasting, while others require maintenance. A practitioner can explain what is suitable for your situation.
Can jowls be prevented?
You can’t stop ageing, but daily sun protection, a consistent skincare routine and not smoking may help support skin health over time.
Will any option change how my face looks or moves?
It depends on the option and your anatomy. A qualified practitioner can explain the possible effects, risks and limitations at a consultation so you can decide what, if anything, is right for you. Results vary between people.
Are concerns about jowls covered by Medicare?
No. Cosmetic concerns are not eligible for Medicare rebates in Australia.
Treatment options and finding a practitioner
Jowls are a normal part of facial ageing and you do not need to treat them.
Some people choose to explore options. A practitioner may discuss options depending on your health history and goals.
Surgical consultations
- Rhytidectomy (facelift) consultation
- Deep plane rhytidectomy consultation
- Short scar facelift consultation
- Platysmaplasty (neck lift) consultation
In Australia, cosmetic surgery must be performed by a registered medical practitioner.
Non-surgical consultations
- Volume loss consultation
- HIFU consultation
- Radiofrequency skin tightening consultation
- RF skin needling consultation
- Thread lift consultation
In Australia, these must be completed by a qualified doctor, nurse, or dentist.
All treatments carry risks, which can include swelling, bruising, lumps, infection and, rarely, blocked blood vessels; redness, swelling, pigment changes and, rarely, burns or scarring; dimpling or thread visibility. Surgery also carries risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve injury and anaesthetic risks. A registered practitioner will explain the risks, recovery time and costs at your consultation. Results vary between people.
Please note that specific treatment details cannot be provided here to comply with Australian advertising regulations.
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