Chubby cheeks and lack of jaw definition - what can I do to correct this? (photos)

Question

I'm 20 years old and have chubby cheeks, lack of definition on my jaw and/or chin and a bit of a crooked smile. I am lean/fit so this is more about my facial structure, not about weight. What are my options?

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. Your smile asymmetry is very subtle, and likely congenital (from birth). There are a few relatively straightforward options that you could think about to address your other concerns (lack of chin/jaw definition and 'chubby' cheeks). The fullness you display of your upper cheeks is generally desirable because it is a youthful and feminine feature; however, your face is less tapered in the lower aspect of the cheeks creating the 'chubby' appearance you mention. The exact cause is difficult to ascertain from the 2 photos, but it is likely from prominent buccal fat pads. Buccal fat resides deep within the cheeks and can be carefully reduced to slim the lower face via transoral incisions. It's a simple procedure that is performed in the office, but it needs to be carefully executed by an experienced surgeon. The other options to consider would be a chin implant (also placed transorally) with submental "chin" liposuction, or FaceTite/Morpheus8 to enhance the jawline. All are safe office procedures performed under local anesthesia. These are not mutually exclusive options and you can discuss with your surgeon where is the best place to start. 
Cheers,Dr. Tower

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For a more defined jawline to strengthen your profile (and help prevent the dreaded jawline "jowl" sagging), we use injectable fillers like Revanesse Versa - a filler known to limit swelling and give subtle, soft enhancements - or Radiesse. Using a cannula to limit pain and swelling, we inject on the bone in strategic points to get more lift and shaping, resulting in a more contoured lower face and defined, structured jawline. I would suggest getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. You may benefit from a combination of buccal fat removal and a chin implant to create a more sculpted appearance. Removing the buccal fat pads can improve your cheek and jawline definition while reducing the rounded appearance in the lower part of your face. Combining this procedure with the insertion of a chin implant can further define the jawline to provide a striking, natural-looking contour.

I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. They will be able to discuss your concerns and aesthetic goals with you to determine the best course of action.

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

There are multiple treatments that can be considered in your case. Facial slimming can be accomplished with lower facial liposuction with removal of the buccal fat pads. Jawline and submental liposuction might provide enough shaping to improve the contour of your jaw.  I would also consider an mandibular chin implant. The anterior projection of your cheeks in the side photo shows a flat anterior cheek which can be improved with filler or fat injections. You have a beautiful smile so nothing needs to be changed there.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It appears that you are a good candidate for neck  and jawline liposuction. Chin augmentation with implant may be considered. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in this type of surgery, is recommended. Good luck.

Chubby cheeks and lack of jaw definition - what can I do to correct this? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Facial shaping

Answer: Facial shaping

Answer: Neck liposuction, possibly chin augmenttion

Answer: Neck liposuction, possibly chin augmenttion

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cheek Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Chubby cheeks and lack of jaw definition - what can I do to correct this? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Facial shaping

Answer: Facial shaping

Answer: Neck liposuction, possibly chin augmenttion

Answer: Neck liposuction, possibly chin augmenttion

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cheek Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.