Why Skin Laxity Gathers at the Jawline

Disclaimer — Dr Jack Zoumaras Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MED0001196472) All plastic surgery is invasive and has risks. Recovery varies between 1–4 weeks. Results vary and are illustrated as a guide only. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. These risks will be discussed with you in detail. A second opinion is beneficial and advised. The use of the words confidence, self-esteem, comfort, harmony, and enhancement are words that our patients use when interacting with us during their plastic surgery journey. How you will feel after receiving plastic surgery varies between individuals and depends on several things including psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery. This research has been presented internationally and published in peer reviewed journals (see below). It is not the intention of this information to deceive you into having surgery nor to convince you to undergo cosmetic surgery, but rather to arm you with the knowledge required to make informed decisions.
Reference: Zoumaras J et al. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 2025. Read the published article here.

Skin laxity at the jawline, neck and chin is a common sign of aging and can be impacted by a range of both genetic and lifestyle factors including stress levels and your skin hygiene routine. But rest assured that there are treatment options to reduce the appearance of your jowls.

Here’s everything you need to know about the causes of skin laxity as well as treatment and preventative options.

What are the Main Causes of Jowls

Jowls develop as the structures that support the lower face change with age. The skin gradually loses collagen and elastin, while changes also occur in the deeper layers of the face, including facial fat, muscles, ligaments and bone.

In the lower face, supporting ligaments help hold facial tissues in position. As these structures change and facial volume shifts with age, soft tissue can descend towards the jawline. At the same time, age-related changes to the jawbone can reduce some of the underlying structural support. Together with reduced skin elasticity, these changes can contribute to the characteristic sagging or fullness associated with jowls.

The extent and timing of these changes vary between individuals. Genetics, sun exposure, smoking and other factors that influence skin quality and facial ageing can affect how noticeable jowls become.

Reducing the Appearance of Jowls Naturally

In some cases, the appearance of jowls can be improved naturally, especially when the skin laxity is mild. Studies show that some exercises and stretches can help including:

• Yawning as widely as comfortable and not letting your teeth touch when you relax.
• Blowing as much air into your cheeks as possible.
• Smiling as widely as possible and tilting your head up and down.

But in most cases, cosmetic treatment will provide better and faster results.

Cosmetic Treatment for Skin Laxity at the Jawline

If you are looking to improve the appearance of skin laxity at the jawline, cosmetic treatment options are available. These include:

Fillers

In the places where your face has lost structural support, fillers are a common treatment used to reduce the sagging appearance of your skin.

Face or Neck Lift

In this treatment, consultants will reposition the fat and tissue in the face and neck area to create a tighter, lifted finish. It’s more invasive than other treatment methods but an effective solution. You can learn more about the different approaches available through Artiste’s facelift surgery information.

For patients where laxity is particularly noticeable beneath the jawline and around the neck, a neck lift may also be considered as part of an individualised treatment plan.

Ultherapy

This involves using ultrasound to stimulate the production of collagen in the skin. A popular treatment method, many people notice an increase in the firmness and tightness of the skin in the following months.

How to Prevent Jowls

Jowls are largely caused by anatomical changes that occur as the face ages, including changes to the skin, facial fat, supporting ligaments and underlying bone. For this reason, it is not possible to completely prevent jowls through skincare, diet or facial exercises.

However, looking after your skin may help reduce some of the external factors that contribute to visible skin ageing. This can include:

• Using broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides UVA and UVB protection. Avoiding smoking.
• Maintaining a balanced diet and limiting excessive alcohol consumption.
• Following a consistent skincare routine appropriate for your skin.
• Maintaining general health through regular physical activity.

These measures may support overall skin health, but they cannot prevent the underlying structural changes of the face that occur with age.

Contact the Team at Artiste to Learn More

For more information about the best treatment options for your skin laxity, get in touch with the friendly team at Artiste. With a range of both surgical and non-surgical options, you’ll benefit from a personalised approach that caters to your specific problem areas. You can also learn more about what to expect during a plastic surgery consultation with Dr Jack Zoumaras.

FAQs

How to Reduce the Appearance of Skin Laxity in the Jawline?

Among the leading practices in Sydney, Artiste offers personalised treatment plans that can help to reduce the appearance of jowls. With both surgical and non-surgical treatment options, the team work alongside you to create results that last.

What Treatment Options are There for Jowls?

When it comes to treating skin laxity, everyone is different. Options could include cosmetic surgery such as a facelift or neck lift, or less invasive treatment such as fillers, laser therapy and ultherapy. For more information on the best treatment for your needs, get in touch with the team at Artiste.

If facelift surgery is an option you are researching, Artiste’s guide to preparing for facelift surgery provides further information about the steps involved before undergoing a procedure.