I am 18 years old with a sagging, jowly face. What are my options?

There are many options for restoration of facial asymmetry after trauma to the facial nerve. Some involve repair of the nerves, some muscle transfers, and some soft tissue readjustment.  You need to see a plastic surgeon who commonly deals with this problem.

You should proceed by having in-person evaluations with multiple well-respected surgeons who can give you an honest opinions and the most appropriate advice based on your individual circumstances.

Your history is quite complex and you simply need to see a local doctor who can get you pointed in the right direction as to what will provide you with the best results possible.  The plan will vary considerably by what your real problem is.

It seems as though you may have facial nerve weakness and/or displacement of soft tissues from the trauma.  In my experience, evaluation of the deformities is extremely important, and may involve looking at the bones (i.e. CT scan) as well as the soft tissue displacement to determine the best approach, especially if there is any facial nerve weakness.  Seek consultation with a facial surgeon experience in both reconstructive and cosmetic techniques, as it is likely that the procedures recommended will require a combination of both.  The specialty is far less important than the expertise and experience of the surgeon.

Although you're very young to consider a facelift, your situation is unique in that you have had an apparent facial palsy secondary to a neurologic event.It would be very important for you to seek consultation with your primary care doctor or neurologist to refer you to a plastic surgeon for a reconstructive procedure.A unilateral or one sided facial tightening can certainly be done in patients who have weakness or paralysis on one side of the face which causes sagging around the mouth and jaw line.

Without photos it is impossible to evaluate what is bothering you. 18 is awfully young for a facelift.  If you have facial nerve damage, you might need a flap or graft.  You need a full, live examination by an expert. 

Your problem is very unique.   While the facelift in general is not something for an 18 year old you may be an exception.  You need to see 3 surgeons who do a lot of facial surgery and have them make recommendations, for you.   Be sure and see ABPS surgeons who are also FACS.  You need to see seasoned surgeons.  You may be correct that some aesthetic surgery is indicated.   If this has been caused by an accident you likely will be covered by insurance so explore this option to the absolute max.  You might also consider going to your local university plastic surgery service to have an evaluation.  My Best,  Dr C