Best non-surgical treatment for jowls?

Question

I am looking for some advice on the best treatment for jowls. I’m 40 years old and have noticed that the skin in my lower face has starting sagging. I have researched lots of different treatments to this area and been for some consultations. However, I keep getting conflicting views on good treatment options for this area. Ideally, I would like to get a facelift but I’m not in a position to do that right now and I am looking for the best non-surgical options to manage this in the meantime. I have looked into filler, however, I don’t want to add unnecessary volume to my face and I have read about the impact of filler staying in the face for longer than anticipated. I would be worried about how this would look over time if you have to repeat it every 12-18 months. I have also looked at RF microneedling and Ultherapy. However, I have also read from several plastic surgeons that this technology does not work and can cause fat loss or actually do more damage to the skin, particularly, if you are considering a facelift later down the line. Would there be any other procedures that might help?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

First, I want to say — your concerns are very valid. The lower face is one of the most frustrating areas to treat because jowling is not caused by just one thing. It’s usually a combination of skin laxity, ligament loosening, subtle fat descent, and sometimes volume loss higher in the face. That’s why you’re getting conflicting opinions — different providers are focusing on different components.

At 40, mild to moderate jowls are extremely common. A facelift is the gold standard because it physically repositions tissue, but when surgery isn’t an option right now, the goal becomes strategic management, not overfilling or over-tightening.

You’re absolutely right to be cautious about filler. Randomly placing filler directly into the jowls often makes the lower face heavier. However, when used thoughtfully — typically higher in the cheeks or along the jawline for structural support — small amounts can create lift rather than bulk. The key is technique and restraint. Overfilling is what creates that “puffy” long-term look people worry about.

Regarding RF microneedling and ultrasound devices like Ultherapy:
These technologies can help, but expectations need to be realistic. They work best for mild laxity and gradual collagen stimulation. They do not replace surgery. Significant fat loss is uncommon when performed appropriately, but overly aggressive settings or repeated treatments in thin faces can potentially reduce facial fat — so provider experience truly matters.

If you’re trying to avoid both volume and aggressive energy devices, other options to consider include:

Collagen-stimulating injectables (biostimulators) placed strategically rather than volumizing fillers. These improve skin firmness gradually without obvious bulk.

Lower face neuromodulator placement to reduce downward pull from muscles like the platysma, which can subtly improve jawline contour.

Combination approach: mild skin tightening + structural support + muscle balance often gives better results than relying on one modality.

One important truth: non-surgical treatments can improve early jowls, but they cannot fully reposition descended tissue. The goal is slowing progression and creating subtle lift while maintaining natural proportions.

You’re thinking long-term, which is smart. Well-done non-surgical treatments do not prevent a future facelift. In fact, maintaining skin quality and collagen can actually make surgical outcomes better later.

Best non-surgical treatment for jowls?

Answers (1)

More Dermal Fillers Questions

Perioral mounds - could this be from filler migration? (Photos)

Filler or Botox for undereyes - can I expect good results? (Photo)

What type of filler/collagen stimulator should I get and where is it to be applied? (Photos)

Lichen Planus on my body - are facial fillers safe?

Reaction to hyaluronidase - is there anything else that can be used to dissolve filler?

52, male, premature aging. Filler/other options for fat loss/aged skin? HARMONY CA? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS