As we age, one of the first places we notice changes is the lower face—sagging jowls, deepening marionette lines, and a loss of definition in the jawline. If you’ve been considering a refresh but feel unsure about whether to go the non-surgical or surgical route, you’re not alone.
The good news? There are effective solutions for every preference, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you’re looking for a subtle tweak with minimal downtime or a more dramatic transformation, let’s explore the pros and cons of each approach so you can make an informed decision.
Why Does the Lower Face Age Faster?
Ageing is a fascinating journey, especially for our lower face, where subtle changes tell a compelling story. As collagen and elastin wane, our skin loses its youthful bounce, becoming less resilient. Simultaneously, the fat pads that once added fullness start to deplete, leaving behind hollows and sagging.
Beneath the surface, our jawbone quietly recedes, diminishing support for the skin and muscles, while gravity and everyday expressions deepen folds, leading to the emergence of jowls and a softer jawline.
Non-Surgical Lower Face Rejuvenation
If you’re looking for a quick, effective, and non-invasive way to refresh your appearance, non-surgical treatments might be the perfect fit. These options typically involve injectables, skin-tightening devices, and collagen-boosting treatments.
1. Dermal Fillers
Best for: Restoring lost volume, softening lines, and improving facial structure.
Downtime: Minimal (mild swelling/bruising for a few days).
Longevity: 6-18 months, depending on the product used.
Fillers can be strategically placed along the jawline, chin, and marionette lines to restore definition and balance. They can also give the illusion of a lift by supporting sagging areas.
2. Muscle Relaxing Treatment for the Jawline & Chin
Best for: Slimming the jawline (by administarting botulinum toxin into a masseter muscle) or reducing chin dimpling.
Downtime: None (tiny injection marks may last a few hours).
Longevity: 3-6 months.
Botulinum toxin can help relax overactive muscles, preventing deep creases from forming and creating a more youthful, sculpted appearance.
3. Skin-Tightening Treatments (Microneedling RF and Lasers)
Best for: Firming mild to moderate skin laxity and boosting collagen.
Downtime: Varies—some redness, but no major recovery time.
Longevity: Progressive results over months, lasting up to 1-2 years. Non-invasive skin-tightening devices like Secret RF (RF microneedling) and Xeo lasers work by stimulating collagen to gradually tighten and lift the skin. These are great options for those wanting natural improvement without injectables.
Pros of Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Quick procedures with minimal downtime
- More affordable than surgery
- Natural-looking results with gradual improvement
Cons of Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Temporary results—maintenance is required
- Cannot fix severe skin laxity or deep structural sagging
Surgical Lower Face Rejuvenation
For those wanting longer-lasting and more dramatic results, surgical options like facelifts and neck lifts may be the best solution.
1. Mini Facelift (Lower Facelift)
Best for: Tightening sagging skin, lifting jowls, and redefining the jawline.
Downtime: 2-3 weeks.
Longevity: 10+ years.
A mini facelift focuses only on the lower face, pulling up loose skin and restoring youthful contours. This is ideal if you’re noticing sagging but don’t need a full facelift.
2. Full Facelift & Neck Lift
Best for: Correcting severe jowls, deep wrinkles, and loose skin.
Downtime: 3-4 weeks.
Longevity: 10-15 years.
A full facelift removes excess skin, repositions deep tissues, and restores volume for a long-lasting, dramatic improvement. This is often combined with a neck lift to eliminate sagging in the neck area.
3. Chin or Jawline Implants
Best for: Enhancing facial structure and creating a stronger profile.
Downtime: 1-2 weeks.
Longevity: Permanent (implants may last a lifetime).
Pros of Surgical Treatments:
- Long-lasting results (up to 10-15 years)
- Addresses significant sagging and volume loss
- Only one procedure instead of repeated treatments
Cons of Surgical Treatments:
- Longer downtime and higher cost
- Surgery comes with risks (scarring, complications, anaesthesia)
- Requires a skilled surgeon for natural-looking results
So… Which One Is Right for You?
The decision between non-surgical and surgical treatments depends on:
Your age & skin condition – If you have mild sagging, non-surgical may be enough. For significant laxity, surgery is the best option.
Your lifestyle & downtime preference – Can you afford to take 2-4 weeks off for recovery? Or do you prefer quick treatments with minimal downtime?
Your budget – Non-surgical treatments can be a more affordable solution compared to surgery.
Your long-term goals – If you want a subtle, natural refresh, non-invasive treatments work well. If you’re looking for a major transformation, a facelift is the way to go.
