Hanging Jowls: How to Tighten Neck Area (2024)

As a person age, factors such as collagen depletion and reduced skin elasticity contribute to developing jowls. These changes are part of the normal aging process. In the quest for a firmer, more youthful appearance, some may seek solutions for sagging, loose, or hanging" jowls. Fortunately, several optional treatments are available that may help reclaim a more rejuvenated look.

Here, we will explore a range of optional treatments designed to tighten and lift sagging jowls.

Jowls Formation and Aging

The jawline typically begins to lose definition after age 40, and jowls may begin to develop in their 50s. Jowls often become increasingly prominent in those age 60 and older.

Reasons for More Pronounced Appearance

As people get older, a few things happen that lead to the development of jowls. First, the jawline loses its firmness because fat in the jowl area becomes more noticeable and the angle between the neck and the lower part of the jaw increases.

There's also a change in the jawbone structure, with a loss of volume in the front part of the jawbone. The skin around the jowl area becomes looser. The fat compartments below the nose and around the jawline deflate, causing the jowls to sag. The platysma muscle, which extends from the neck to the jaw, contracts and pulls down, contributing to the loss of jawline definition. All these factors together result in the appearance of jowls, a common sign of aging.

At-Home Skin Care and Jowl Treatment

While at-home skin care cannot reverse jowls entirely, certain practices may help improve skin health and possibly minimize the appearance of sagging.

Remember, results from at-home treatments may vary, and patience is key. For more advanced concerns, consult a dermatologist or skin care professional who can provide personalized advice and recommend appropriate treatments.

Here are some at-home skin care tips to consider:

Retinoids

Over-the-counter retinoid creams may stimulate collagen production and density, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.Using products with retinoids can help minimize the appearance of aging signs like jowls.

Consult a dermatologist before using retinoids, as they can be irritating for some skin types.

Facial Exercises

There is some evidence that facial exercises, also called facial yoga, can help tone the muscles and reduce sagging. However, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. If you decide to try facial exercises, be gentle to avoid causing additional stress on the skin.

Collagen

Collagen peptides may help with sagging jowls by promoting the production of collagen, a protein that provides structure and firmness to the skin. Collagen production naturally decreases with age, contributing to skin laxity and the formation of jowls.

Collagen peptides are available in oral and topical forms and may help to enhance skin moisture, elasticity, and hydration.

Massage

Facial massage may be a beneficial, noninvasive technique for addressing sagging jowls. Some research shows that facial massage appears to have lifting and tightening effects on the skin.

Facial massage may stimulate blood circulation, promote lymphatic drainage, and tone the facial muscles, contributing to improved skin firmness.

Sun Protection

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun contribute to premature skin aging. Dermatologists recommend that people practice safe sun with the following methods:

• Use sunscreen: Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 to protect your skin from sun damage.
• Wear sun-protective clothing: Hats and sunglasses can protect the skin on your face.
• Find shade when possible: The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
  

Cosmetic Surgery to Treat Jowls

Cosmetic surgery offers various effective options for treating jowls, providing more significant and longer-lasting results compared to at-home skin care. Here are common surgical procedures used to address jowls:

Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Facelift surgery is a comprehensive solution for addressing sagging jowls and other signs of facial aging. During a facelift, excess skin is removed, underlying tissues are tightened, and the skin is redraped to create a more youthful appearance.

Mini Facelift

A mini facelift is a less-invasive procedure that targets a more limited area, typically the lower face and jowls. This procedure primarily focuses on repositioning the skin rather than underlying muscles, making it less extensive than a full facelift.

While results are noticeable and can address mild to moderate sagging, they are generally less dramatic and may not last as long as those from a full facelift. Typically, the recovery period is shorter compared to a full facelift, with less swelling and bruising.

Neck Lift

A neck lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to address signs of aging in the neck area, including sagging skin, excess fat, and muscle laxity.

While a neck lift primarily focuses on the neck, it can have a positive impact on improving the appearance of jowls as well. By tightening the neck muscles and removing excess fat, a neck lift may enhance the definition of the jawline, reducing the appearance of jowls.

Nonsurgical Office Treatments

Both radiofrequency (RF) therapy and ultrasound therapy are nonsurgical procedures used in the field of aesthetics to address skin laxity, including the sagging associated with jowls. While they use different technologies, both aim to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin, providing a more youthful appearance.

RF Therapy

RF therapy utilizes radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin. The controlled heat stimulates collagen and elastin production, promoting tissue tightening and firming. RF therapy can improve skin laxity, reduce the appearance of jowls, and enhance facial contours. It is often used for skin tightening in various areas, including the jawline and neck.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy uses focused ultrasound energy to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, triggering a natural healing response. This leads to the production of new collagen, resulting in skin tightening.

Ultrasound therapy is effective in lifting and tightening loose skin, making it a popular choice for addressing jowls. It can enhance jawline definition and improve overall facial sagging.

It's crucial to consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on individual needs and desired outcomes.

Coping With Skin and Jowl Changes

Coping with skin and jowl changes involves embracing a holistic approach to skin care and overall well-being. Establish a consistent skin care routine that prioritizes hydration, sun protection, and collagen-boosting ingredients. You may decide to explore nonsurgical options such as radiofrequency or ultrasound therapy for targeted improvements.

Additionally, fostering a healthy self-esteem can contribute to a healthier mindset and enhanced confidence.

Summary

If you or a loved one is looking for a solution for sagging jowls, there's a range of options to explore. Simple at-home practices like retinoids, facial exercises, collagen supplements, and massage may offer some benefits, though results can vary.

For those seeking more lasting changes, cosmetic surgeries like facelifts, mini facelifts, and neck lifts provide comprehensive solutions. Nonsurgical options such as radiofrequency and ultrasound therapy present alternatives for skin tightening. Consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon or dermatologist to help guide you in creating a personalized plan for you.