Why do I have more loose skin on one side under my chin? (Photo)

Question

I’m 54 never been over weight, haven’t lost any weight and have more loose skin on left side under my chin. The farther down I drop my chin the more I notice. Up right it isn’t noticeable.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Every person has underlying facial asymmetry which is due to the fact that during fetal development, each side of the face grows independently before fusing after substantial development has occurred. One side of the face is never the mirror image of the other, even if it is not obvious. With the aging process and tissue relaxation, the asymmetry often becomes more apparent. From your photos you have other areas of asymmetry. A neck lift or variation on that procedure should largely correct the looseness and improve your symmetry as well, but will not fully eliminate the asymmetry.

Sanjay "Jay" Keni, MD · Answer

Hi Ljstew,Let me reassure you that what you’re experiencing is normal.  Often as we age, one side of our face may age more dramatically than the other.  In fact, if you spend time in the car, you’ll notice that the sun hits the left side of the face moreso than the right, and this is likely responsible for more pronounced left-sided wrinkling and sagging than we might think.If you’re healthy, you’d likely be a good candidate for a lower face and neck lift if these areas are bothersome to you.  Make sure to see an experienced facial plastic surgeon.Best wishes,Dr. Jay

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

ljstew.  It appears from your photographs that you are simply experiencing normal aging and sometimes this process can be somewhat asymmetrical. If the appearance bothers you, facelift is a good option. Be certain to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Facial asymmetries are normal. A significant degree of sagging is best remedied with a full rhytidectomy (facelift) which will have long lasting results. With volume loss in the mid face, this can be improved with fat grafting done during the facelift which can also help asymmetry. I do recommend a neck lift with platysmaplasty to fix any sagging of the chin and neck, plus a chemical peel to improve the wrinkling and stimulate the production of new collagen. Microneedling could help improve the scars. I hope this helps!

Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS · Answer

Everyone has some asymmetry. With a facelift, the neck skin would be elevated, tightened and the excess skin removed. The jowls (which are hanging down on either side of the jaw line near the mouth) would be eradicated and symmetry would be improved. The sagging cheeks would be lifted. There is no doubt you would look significantly younger, and more fresh with long lasting results.
Sincerely, 
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS
Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

Everyone is assymetric.  Without an examination, its possible that your submandibular salivary gland could be more prominent on that side.  That being said, if you don't like your appearance, a face and neck lift would be the proper solution.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.   Skin laxity occurs with age.  Based on your photograph, you may
benefit from a mini facelift with a neck lift.  If good technique is used,
this can be done with minimal scarring and can result in a natural look, not
over-done look, with rejuvenation of your face and neck.  Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results. The most important aspect
is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek
consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate
you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Asymmetry and loose skin is quite normal and common in the neck area.  Your photograph indicates that you would be a great candidate for a lower face/neck lift should this area be a concern.  My advice is to seek a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon for an evaluation.  Good luck.

Robert W. Sheffield, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Some facial asymmetry is natural and is determined in the fetal stage of life, as one half of the face develops more than the other. A slight asymmetry of facial features is commonly acquired and depends on varying factors like your lifestyle, genetics and the side you sleep on. As you age, the asymmetry becomes more obvious and noticeable due to reduction of connective tissue and relaxation of the normal tone of facial muscles. Your photos indicate that you have a minor asymmetry of chin which could be very effectively corrected with a cosmetic procedure. This can make you look younger and give you a perfect symmetry of the face and neck features. See an experienced facial plastic surgeon to explore your options and discuss your specific aesthetic goals.I hope this helps. All the best.

Joshua A. Halpern, MD, PA · Answer

As a former art student from the L.A County Museum of Art, I can tell you that most patients are asymmetric. One side of the face may be wider than the other, one side can be fuller and certain features like the mouth can be crooked. Having said that a male facelift will help to improve this area. I designed a male facelift where my patients typically tell me that their friends don’t know they had surgery but are wondering why they look so good. A non-surgical technique includes treatment with Velashape. This utilizes radio frequency to tighten the skin. There is no downtime but the results are not as good as a facelift. I hope you find this information useful. Please watch the enclosed video.

Why do I have more loose skin on one side under my chin? (Photo)

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