In our our comprehensive Kensington Medical guide we will discuss the cost of jowl lift surgery, what the procedure entails, and the alternatives available to achieve a rejuvenated appearance.
As we age, our skin loses elasticity, there is a natural decline in collagen, and firmness, which causes it to sag and leads to the appearance of jowls along the jawline. Saggy skin or saggy jowls refers to the loose, drooping skin below the chin that occurs due to reduced skin elasticity. It can impact confidence and self-esteem. Excess neck skin can also contribute to a lack of jawline definition and is often addressed during jowl lift or neck lift procedures to achieve a more youthful and natural-looking result. This can be a big concern for many people as it can make them look older than they feel. There are various treatments available to address this issue, with one of the most effective being a plastic surgery procedure that Kensington Medical specialises in : jowl lift surgery or a lower face lift. Our expert GMC Specialist Registered Plastic surgeons are here to help and can advise during a detailed consultation.
What is a Jowl Lift?
Jowl lift surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the face and neck by removing excess skin, tightening the underlying tissues, and repositioning tissue and fat pads for natural-looking results. This cosmetic surgery specifically targets jawline definition and helps to achieve a youthful neck contour. By addressing these concerns, jowl lift surgery helps to restore a more defined jawline, improve facial contours and natural creases in the lower face, and reduce the appearance of sagging jowls.
A jowl lift procedure can be performed under local anaesthetic, which can offer shorter recovery time. By addressing the primary cause of jowls – sagging skin and lax muscles, this more permanent solution restores a more youthful and defined appearance to the lower face with a focus on a face and neck lift .
During the surgery, small incisions are made around the ears, allowing the surgeon to access and tighten the underlying facial muscles and remove any excess skin. This results in a more defined jawline and a reduction in the appearance of sagging jowls. Patients with better skin elasticity tend to achieve more natural and longer-lasting results from the procedure. By addressing these specific areas, jowl lift surgery can improve the balance of the face, providing a more youthful and revitalised appearance.
At Kensington Medical this procedure performed by our expert plastic surgeons is one of the most popular. To find out more about addressing sagging jowls visit Jowl lift surgery.
Causes and Effects of Sagging Jowls
Sagging jowls are a frequent concern as we age, largely due to the natural aging process that causes the skin to lose its elasticity and firmness. Over time, the connective tissues and underlying structures in the face and neck weaken, leading to moderate facial sagging to more excessive sagging skin and the accumulation of excess fat in the lower face. Factors such as sun damage, genetics, and lifestyle choices like smoking can accelerate these changes, making the appearance of jowls more pronounced. The result is a loss of definition along the jawline and a heavier, older-looking lower face. For many, the visible signs of sagging jowls can impact self-confidence and overall wellbeing, prompting the search for effective solutions to restore a more youthful facial profile.
How Do You Get Rid of Sagging Jowls?
There are several ways to treat sagging jowls, from non-invasive treatments to surgical procedures. Non-surgical treatments are ideal for early-stage jowls or for those who wish to avoid surgery, and are often referred to as 'lunchtime lifts' due to their minimal downtime. Dermal fillers can restore volume to the cheeks and jawline, helping to camouflage sagging jowls and improve facial contours. Combining procedures using dermal fillers for volume and Ultherapy for tightening is commonly used in the UK for optimal results. For those seeking less invasive surgical options, the mini facelift procedure is a minimally invasive alternative suitable for patients with mild to moderate signs of ageing, offering subtle, natural results and shorter recovery times compared to a lower facelift.
Some of the common options include:
Dermal Fillers
Most patients who choose dermal fillers will have mild to moderate jowl or who are not ready for surgery.
Although dermal fillers cannot lift jowls, they offer a non-surgical option for individuals looking to add volume and smooth out wrinkles in the lower face. This treatment can temporarily improve the appearance of jowls by filling in areas where volume loss has occurred such as cheeks and jawline, creating a more balanced and youthful look.
It's important to note that while dermal fillers can provide some enhancement, they will not offer the same long-lasting and dramatic results as jowl lift surgery. Dermal fillers are best suited for those seeking a less invasive approach.
Skin Tightening Treatments
Skin tightening treatments, such as Ultherapy and Morpheus8, offer an alternative for those who want to address mild to moderate jowl concerns without surgery. Ultrasound Therapy (Ultherapy) uses focused ultrasound to stimulate collagen production deep within the skin. Morpheus8 and other radiofrequency (RF) treatments utilise heat energy to tighten skin and melt sub-dermal fat. These treatments use ultrasound or radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. While these treatments can marginally improve the appearance of jowls, the results will not be as impressive as those achieved through jowl lift surgery.
Some improvement may be visible within a few weeks after treatment, as swelling and minor side effects subside, but it may take up to six months to see the full effects. The results typically last around 12 months. For individuals with more pronounced jowls or those seeking more significant improvement, jowl lift surgery remains the most effective option.
Non-surgical options are short term fixes and can often become expensive to repeat every year. Our plastic surgeons also find that in some cases dermal fillers need to be dissolved before surgery takes place to achieve a good permanent solution.
Read about our Kensington Medical Specialist Registered Plastic Surgeons who are experts in jowl lift or lower facelifts.
Candidacy and Suitability
Ideal candidates for jowl lift surgery are typically individuals who are concerned about the appearance of sagging jowls, loose skin, and excess fat in the lower face and neck. They may have noticed a loss of definition in the jawline, a double chin, or an overall aged appearance. Candidates should be in good physical health, have realistic expectations, and be willing to follow a comprehensive recovery plan.
Those who are most suitable for this procedure often find that non-surgical treatments are no longer effective in addressing their concerns. If you are experiencing significant sagging jowls and loose skin that impact your confidence and overall appearance, jowl lift surgery may be the ideal solution to achieve a more youthful and defined look.
Jowl Lift Surgery Options
When it comes to treating treating jowls, many patients opt for a jowl lift which is is considered one of the best. There are a variety of other options available, ranging from deep plane facelift, the SMAS facelift and mini facelift, are designed to remove excess skin and tighten the underlying tissues, resulting in a more youthful appearance and improved facial contours.
Jowl Lift Surgery Cost in the UK
The cost of jowl lift surgery in the UK can vary depending on factors affecting cost such as the surgeon's experience, the procedure's complexity, and the clinic's geographical location. A full facelift procedure, which addresses multiple facial areas for more comprehensive and longer-lasting results, typically costs more than a jowl lift.
When considering jowl lift surgery, it's crucial to prioritise the quality of care and the surgeon's expertise over cost. Choosing a reputable and experienced surgeon will help you achieve the best possible results and minimise the risk of complications.
The price for a lower facelift or jowl lift at Kensington Medical is from £9,000 and includes:
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The surgical fee
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The hospital fee and medical care
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The anaesthesia
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The post-operative care
If you are considering a jowl lift in Harley street London, Wimbledon or elsewhere in the UK, consulting with a cosmetic surgeon at Kensington Medical ensures you have a thorough consultation with all questions answered, before and after’s will be shown and your plastic surgeon advise on the best jowl lift option for your lower face. We can guide you through the process and help you decide on the best jowl treatment options.
Contact Kensington Medical at 0204 551 4892 to book your consultation.
Recovery and Results
The recovery timeline for jowl lift surgery typically ranges from 7-14 days, during which time patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising. It’s essential to follow a comprehensive recovery plan, including rest, medication, and follow-up post operative appointments, to ensure a smooth and comfortable healing process.
During the initial recovery period, patients are advised to keep their head elevated and avoid strenuous activities to reduce swelling and promote healing. Most individuals can return to their normal activities within two weeks, although it may take several months for the final results to fully manifest.
Results from jowl lift surgery can last for several years, with some patients experiencing a more youthful appearance for up to 15 years. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting the skin from sun damage, and using specialist anti-ageing products can help extend the results of the procedure. By adhering to these guidelines, patients can enjoy the benefits of their jowl lift surgery for many years to come, feeling more confident and rejuvenated.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for Your Jowl Lift
Selecting the right plastic surgeon for your jowl lift is one of the most important decisions you will make on your journey to a more youthful and refreshed appearance. A jowl lift is a delicate surgical procedure that requires a high level of skill, precision, and aesthetic judgment. When considering lift surgery, it’s essential to choose a surgeon who is not only experienced in performing jowl lifts but also specializes in facial cosmetic surgery.
Look for plastic surgeons who are members of reputable professional organisations such as the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) or the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS). Take the time to review patient testimonials, before-and-after photos, and the surgeon’s track record with jowl lift procedures.
By choosing a highly qualified and reputable plastic surgeon, you can feel confident that your jowl lift will be performed safely and effectively, helping you achieve a natural, refreshed appearance that enhances your confidence and well-being. See you expert Cosmetic Surgeons here.
Addressing a Double Chin Alongside Jowl Concerns
For many individuals, sagging jowls and a double chin often appear together as part of the natural ageing process, leading to concerns about excess fat and loose skin in the lower face and neck. Fortunately, there are several surgical procedures and non surgical treatments available to address both issues simultaneously, resulting in a more defined jawline and improved facial contours.
A neck lift is a popular surgical treatment that targets the underlying muscles and removes excess fat and sagging skin from the neck area, effectively reducing the appearance of a double chin and enhancing the jawline. For those seeking more comprehensive facial rejuvenation, a deep plane facelift can be performed to lift sagging jowls, tighten deeper layers of tissue, and remove excess fat from both the face and neck. This approach delivers dramatic, long-lasting results and a refreshed appearance.
In some instances our plastic surgoesn will carry out a small micro liposcution to remove some small pockets of fat under the chin. Chin liposuction can have amazing results.
Non surgical treatments, such as dermal fillers or Kybella injections, can also help reduce the appearance of a double chin by dissolving small pockets of fat or restoring volume to the lower face. However, these options are generally best suited for individuals with mild to moderate concerns and may not be as effective for those with significant skin laxity or excess fat.
Ultimately, the most effective way to treat sagging jowls and a double chin is to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon. They can assess your unique needs and recommend a tailored combination of surgical procedures or non surgical treatments to achieve a more defined jawline, smoother facial contours, and a confident, rejuvenated look.
Full Facelift vs Mini Facelift
When considering facial rejuvenation, it’s important to understand the differences between a full facelift and a mini facelift. A full facelift procedure is a comprehensive surgical treatment that addresses sagging skin, wrinkles, and volume loss across the entire face, including the upper, middle, and lower regions. This approach is ideal for individuals with significant facial ageing and skin laxity who desire dramatic, long-lasting results.
In contrast, a mini facelift is a less invasive surgical treatment that focuses primarily on the lower face, targeting concerns such as sagging jowls and mild to moderate skin laxity. The mini facelift involves smaller incisions and typically offers a shorter recovery time, making it an appealing option for those with good skin elasticity and less extensive signs of ageing.
The choice between a full facelift and a mini facelift depends on your unique facial anatomy, the degree of sagging, and your desired outcome. Consulting with a reputable surgeon is essential to determine which procedure will best address your concerns and deliver natural, harmonious results.
Other Complementary Surgeries to Combine with a Jowl Lift
While a jowl lift can significantly improve the appearance of sagging skin along the jawline, it may not address other signs of ageing in the face and neck. Combining a jowl lift with complementary surgeries can provide more comprehensive facial rejuvenation, resulting in a balanced and harmonious outcome. For example, an upper eye lift (upper blepharoplasty) can be performed to rejuvenate the upper eyelids for a more refreshed appearance. Additionally, certain facelift techniques can also target the upper neck area to address sagging and improve overall facial harmony. This section will discuss some popular procedures that can be combined with a jowl lift for optimal results.
Neck Lift
A neck lift targets sagging skin, muscle laxity, and excess fat in the neck area. Combining a jowl lift with a neck lift can create a more refined and elegant neckline for individuals with pronounced jowls and noticeable neck ageing. This combination offers a seamless rejuvenation from the jawline down to the collarbone, enhancing overall facial harmony.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, addresses sagging skin, puffiness, and wrinkles around the upper and lower eyelids. Combining this procedure with a jowl lift can create a more alert and youthful appearance while ensuring the entire face looks refreshed and rejuvenated.
Brow Lift
A brow lift raises the position of the eyebrows, smooths forehead wrinkles, and reduces the appearance of frown lines. Combined with a jowl lift, a brow lift can provide a balanced upper and lower face rejuvenation, creating a cohesive and natural-looking outcome.
When considering a jowl lift, it's essential to evaluate your overall facial ageing concerns and discuss these with your surgeon. Combining a jowl lift with complementary surgeries can provide a more comprehensive and harmonious rejuvenation, ensuring you achieve the best possible results. By simultaneously addressing multiple areas of the face, you can minimise recovery time and enjoy a refreshed and youthful appearance that reflects how you feel on the inside.
Talk with an experienced facial surgeon at Kensington Medical in the UK to determine the most suitable combination of procedures for your unique needs and aesthetic goals.
Facelift
There are several facelift procedures available, each tailored to address different signs of ageing and patient needs.
A facelift is a surgical procedure to address sagging skin, wrinkles, and volume loss in the mid and lower face. Combining a jowl lift with a facelift can achieve a more youthful appearance, as both the jawline and the cheeks will be lifted and tightened. This combination ensures a smooth transition between the different areas of the face, providing natural-looking results.
There are several types of facelift techniques, and your surgeon will determine which one is best for you based on your individual needs and goals. It’s essential to remember that the combination of a facelift and jowl lift surgery will require an extended recovery period compared to either procedure done alone. Our surgeons may recommend the SMAS facelift for those looking to combine it with a jowl lift to achieve optimal results. This combination of treatments can provide comprehensive facial rejuvenation and a long-lasting outcome.
Neck Lift
A neck lift targets sagging skin, muscle laxity, and excess fat in the neck area. Combining a jowl lift with a neck lift can create a more refined and elegant neckline for individuals with pronounced jowls and noticeable neck ageing. This combination offers a seamless rejuvenation from the jawline down to the collarbone, enhancing overall facial harmony.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, addresses sagging skin, puffiness, and wrinkles around the upper and lower eyelids. Combining this procedure with a jowl lift can create a more alert and youthful appearance while ensuring the entire face looks refreshed and rejuvenated.
Brow Lift
A brow lift raises the position of the eyebrows, smooths forehead wrinkles, and reduces the appearance of frown lines. Combined with a jowl lift, a brow lift can provide a balanced upper and lower face rejuvenation, creating a cohesive and natural-looking outcome.
When considering a jowl lift, it's essential to evaluate your overall facial ageing concerns and discuss these with your surgeon. Combining a jowl lift with complementary surgeries can provide a more comprehensive and harmonious rejuvenation, ensuring you achieve the best possible results. By simultaneously addressing multiple areas of the face, you can minimise recovery time and enjoy a refreshed and youthful appearance that reflects how you feel on the inside.
Talk with an experienced facial surgeon at Kensington Medical, UK
Facial Rejuvenation
Facial rejuvenation is a holistic approach to reversing the visible signs of ageing, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and diminished skin elasticity. A jowl lift is a cornerstone facial rejuvenation treatment, effectively addressing the lower face and jawline for a more youthful appearance. For those seeking even more comprehensive results, a jowl lift can be combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures like a neck lift, brow lift, or eyelid surgery to refresh multiple areas of the face simultaneously.
In addition to surgical options, minimally invasive treatments and non surgical options such as dermal fillers can be used to enhance facial contours, restore lost volume, and improve skin health. These treatments are particularly beneficial for patients with mild to moderate concerns or those who prefer minimal downtime.
A specialist in facial cosmetic surgery will consider your medical history, skin health, and lifestyle factors to recommend the most suitable treatment options for your needs. By choosing a reputable surgeon and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can achieve long-lasting facial rejuvenation and enjoy a more youthful, confident appearance for years to come.
Learn More About Jowl Lift Surgery in London at Kensington Medical
To find out if you are suitable for jowl lift surgery book a consultation with one of our expert surgeons at Kensington Medical.
Medically Reviewed
Our experts monitor facial plastic surgery and facial treatments information and update it when it is available.
This page was medically reviewed by Mr David Gateley MA, FRCS, FRCS (Plast), GMC number 2939470 on 28 April 2026.
Author: Louise Braham