"Hated my jowls, every time I looked in the mirror. I've got my confidence back. Why I waited was crazy".
At Kensington Medical, we offer a broad range of facial cosmetic procedures to help you look and feel refreshed.
A lower facelift or jowl lift will the lower face, treat jowls, the jawline, the nose to mouth area, giving you a more youthful appearance. There are various surgical methods available to treat sagging jowls, including lower facelifts mini facelifts, neck lifts, and liposuction. A personalised assessment by our GMC Specialist Registered facial plastic surgeons will help determine the most effective treatment for you. A jowl lift can also be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as neck lifts or eyelid surgery, to achieve facial harmony and restore balanced, natural proportions to the face and neck.
A Jowl lift or lower facelift can help with:
Sagging in the mid-face
Removal of Jowls
Lift the sides of mouth to remove the sad mouth look
Lift sagging jowls
Improve on Nasolabial folds or nose to mouth lines
Marionette lines or mouth to chin lines
Jawline definition
Jowls due to weight loss
Wrinkles due to loss of elasticity and collagen
Sagging cheeks and sagging jawline
Loose or sagging neck skin
The appearance of jowls is often due to volume loss, skin loses elasticity, and skin laxity and is part of the natural ageing process, especially along the jaw line.
Many patients choose to have a lower face lift or jowl lift surgery because it can target these concerns in a single procedure.
The technique adds back volume to the cheek area, treats sagging jowls, defines facial contours, contours the cheek, and lifts and tightens the skin around the jawline—effectively getting rid of jowls and creating a defined jawline. It is particularly effective for moderate facial sagging, addressing both the jowls and jaw line for a rejuvenated look. The procedure involves removing excess tissue and tightening the remaining tissue to improve jawline definition and achieve a more youthful appearance. Surgical procedures tend to offer the most dramatic and long-lasting results for jowls compared to non-surgical options. Skin elasticity plays a key role in the effectiveness and longevity of jowl lift results. It may effectively give you a neck lift creating natural looking results.
A jowl lift works by lifting sagging jowls and improving the appearance of the jaw line, restoring youthful facial contours.
For severe jowls and advanced facial sagging, a surgical facelift is considered the gold standard for tightening and rejuvenating the lower face and jawline, providing long-lasting and definitive results.
Some treatments can also stimulate collagen and elastin production within the skin tissue, further improving firmness and elasticity for a more youthful appearance.
Our approach to facial rejuvenation often involves treating jowls with both surgical and non-surgical options to achieve optimal results and restore overall facial harmony.
The procedure is carried out as a hospital day case so that you can return home on the same day. There is only minor discomfort and a quick recovery time.
If you feel that your appearance detracts from your quality of life, a lower facelift or jowl lift may be right for you.
One of the most common concerns is the development of sagging jowls, which can significantly affect facial contours and self-confidence. As we age, the natural ageing process causes the skin to lose elasticity, leading to excess skin and loose skin along the jawline. This can result in a less defined jawline and a tired looking appearance. Achieving facial harmony is a key objective when combining treatments for jowls, jawline, and other facial features, ensuring a balanced and natural overall result.
Jowl lift surgery is a highly effective surgical procedure that specifically targets the lower face, removing excess skin and tightening underlying tissues to create a more defined jawline and rejuvenated facial contours. For those with mild jowls to moderate sagging jowls, a lower surgical facelift can be discussed in a face to face consultation with our facelift specialists. By understanding the range of options available for lift surgery patients can make informed decisions about the best way for treating jowls as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan, and address visible signs of the ageing process along the jawline.
A lower face lift, sometimes called a jowl lift, improves the appearance of the lower face and the lower jawline by removing excess skin and toning up underlying muscles. Lower facelift and jowl lift are types of facelift procedures designed to address sagging and loss of definition in the lower face, helping to restore a more youthful appearance by restoring the face’s natural contours. This procedure is particularly effective for individuals experiencing moderate facial sagging, which often results from aging-related changes in skin elasticity and weakening connective tissues.
It uses various techniques. Our GMC specialist registered plastic surgeons will tailor the procedure to your specific needs and desired results, targeting the facial areas of concern.
If you want to find out if you are a suitable candidate for a lower facelift to target the jowl and lower face, contact us. A suitable candidate is someone in good health, following the correct lifestyle factors such as eating well and exercising, has sufficient skin elasticity, and realistic expectations.
Jowls are a common concern for many individuals, particularly as they age. A jowl is a sagging or drooping of the skin and tissue in the lower face, typically along the jawline. The appearance of jowls is often due to saggy skin and volume loss as the skin loses elasticity with age. Changes in skin tissue, such as reduced collagen and elastin production, further contribute to the development of jowls by decreasing skin firmness and resilience.
Jowls can be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, weight gain, and the natural ageing process. As we age, the skin and muscles in the face begin to lose their elasticity and firmness, leading to a sagging or drooping appearance. Volume loss in the face also contributes to the development of jowls and wrinkles. Jowls can also be caused by excess fat in the neck and chin area, which can contribute to a double chin or sagging jawline.
A jowl lift is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the lower face by tightening loose skin and removing excess fat. The benefits of a jowl lift include:
A more defined and youthful jawline
Reduced appearance of sagging skin and jowls
Improved facial contours and overall appearance
Improved nose to mouth lines, the naso-labial folds
Help with mouth to chin lines, marionette lines
Achieves facial harmony by balancing the proportions of the lower face and neck
Enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem
Long-lasting results, up to 10-15 years, this of course depends on many factors allowing for general ageing, such as genetics, health and diet, exercise and sun exposure.
Minimally invasive treatments for jowls, such as laser therapy and injectables, can offer minimal downtime for patients seeking effective results with quicker recovery.
During your lower face lift consultation, our expert facial plastic surgeon will discuss all the benefits in more detail so you know what to expect. You will see before and after photos of a jowl lift. Discuss time lines and dates so you know exactly what to expect.
At Kensington Medical we can help if you are worried about your jowls or lower face. Find out if you are suitable for a lower facelift.
To help maintain and prolong the results of your jowl lift or lower facelift, specialist anti ageing products can be incorporated into your skincare routine.
The plastic surgery procedure begins with small incisions hidden in the hairline. Our skilled plastic surgeon then separates the skin from the deeper tissues of the face and re-drapes it, carefully removing excess tissue and tightening the remaining tissue to achieve a more defined jawline and youthful appearance. The incisions are then closed with dissolvable stitches.
Compared to other facelift procedures for facial rejuvenation, a jowl lift specifically focuses on removing excess tissue and tightening the lower face and neck, providing significant and lasting results.
At Kensington Medcial we believe the ideal candidate for a lower facelift or jowl lift is someone who is in good physical health and has realistic expectations for the surgery results. A suitable candidate typically has good skin elasticity, which is important for achieving natural-looking and long-lasting results after the procedure. Most of our patients are over the age of 40, through to 50’s and 60’s and are noticing signs of ageing, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, loss of definition in the jawline, and are interested in tightening sagging skin.
A lower facelift focuses on the lower two-thirds of the face, while a full facelift addresses concerns in the upper half and the lower face. Among facelift procedures, a full facelift typically costs more than a jowl lift due to its broader scope. A lower facelift is less invasive than a full facelift procedure and will have a shorter recovery time.
A lower facelift can provide significant skin tightening benefits, effectively reducing the appearance of sagging skin.
The SMAS facelift is a type of full facelift that focuses on the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), a layer of connective tissue in the face. A lower facelift only addresses concerns in the lower two-thirds of the face and does not involve the SMAS.
Find out what facelift is right for you.
A deep plane facelift is a type of full facelift that repositions the deeper layers of the face. A lower facelift only addresses concerns in the lower two-thirds of the face and does not involve the deeper layers.
A mini facelift is a less invasive version of a full facelift that uses smaller incisions. It can only address concerns in the lower face, while a lower facelift can address problems in the lower two-thirds of the face.
Find out what facelift will benefit you. Our surgeons will advise on the best options for your face, contact us here.
If you feel you also have a double chin as well as needing jowl lift surgery we can help. A double chin often develops alongside sagging jowls, contributing to a less defined jawline and impacting the overall harmony of the lower face. Addressing a double chin can involve both surgical and non surgical treatments, depending on the amount of excess fat and skin present. Neck lift surgery is a popular surgical procedure that removes excess fat and tightens the skin and underlying muscles in the neck area, effectively reducing the appearance of a double chin and enhancing jawline definition. Thsi may however not be necessary and in many cases a lower facelift can help with the double chin and loose skin on the neck.
For those seeking non surgical options, treatments such as Kybella injections can dissolve excess fat under the chin, while skin tightening therapies can improve skin firmness and contour. Combining these approaches with jowl lift surgery can provide comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower face, restoring youthful facial contours and a more sculpted profile. booking a consultatiion with one of our GMC Specialist Registered qualified plastic surgeoncan determine the most effective treatment plan for your specific needs, ensuring we target both double chin and sagging jowls.
For those seeking to address sagging jowls and improve facial contours without undergoing surgery, there are non surgical treatments available. These non surgical options can be used alone or in combination to help restore a more youthful appearance in the lower face. Dermal fillers are a popular choice, as they can add volume to areas affected by volume loss and help smooth the transition along the jawline. By restoring lost volume, dermal fillers can temporarily reduce the appearance of sagging jowls and enhance facial definition. There is however a limit on this and in some cases it can create a heavier jawline.
Skin tightening treatments, such as radiofrequency, ultrasound-based therapies, and advanced laser procedures, work by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity. These treatments can help tighten loose skin and provide subtle lifting effects, making them suitable for individuals with very mild to moderate skin laxity. Fat-dissolving injections are another non surgical option, targeting and reducing excess fat in the jowl area, however it does not redcue excess loose skin in the lower face.
While non surgical treatments can deliver some improvements with minimal downtime, it’s important to understand that their results are generally less dramatic and not as long-lasting as those achieved with jowl lift surgery or lift surgery. However, they can be a choice for those who are not ready for surgery. During your consultation at Kensington Medical, our expert plastic surgeons will discuss the benefits of both surgery and non surgical options to achieve the best result for your indicial needs.
The recovery time for a jowl lift can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. The recovery process after a jowl lift typically involves some swelling, bruising, and tightness in the lower face and neck. Most patients tend to find that the initial swelling subsides significantly within the first two weeks, and you will continue to see gradual improvement over the next few months. During the first week of recovery, it is important to rest, keep your head elevated, and avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. The recovery timeline for jowl lift surgery typically ranges from 7-14 days, during which time patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising. The length of the recovery period will vary for each patient, most individuals can return to their normal activities within two weeks. Recovery will involve following instructions for wound care, taking or avoiding certain medications, and taking other important steps to aid in healing and prevent complications. Initial improvements are often noticeable within a few weeks as swelling and side effects subside, but it may take several months for the final results of the jowl lift to fully manifest. A mini facelift, which is a less invasive version of the jowl lift, may have a shorter recovery time, lasting under a week.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with a jowl lift or lower face lift. These can include:
Severe pain or discomfort
Infection or bleeding
Scarring or keloid formation
Asymmetry or unevenness
Nerve damage or numbness
Our plastic surgeons will discuss all of the risks and complications with you in consultation to determine if a jowl lift is right for you.
Sometimes, patients may also choose to have a brow lift or eyelid surgery (upper eye lift or lower eye bag removal) to complement their lower facelift. Combining these procedures helps achieve facial harmony by balancing the proportions of the face and neck, resulting in a more natural and aesthetically pleasing overall appearance. These procedures can help create a more well-rounded and youthful appearance.
In addition to surgical options, there are several non-surgical treatments available to treat sagging jowls. These include dermal fillers (such as hyaluronic acid-based injectables like Profhilo), skin tightening treatments, thread lifts, Ultherapy (an FDA-approved ultrasound treatment for sagging jowls), Thermage (which uses radiofrequency energy to tighten and contour the skin), Morpheus8 (combining micro-needling with radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production), and fat-dissolving injections to target and reduce fat deposits in the jowl area. Non-surgical treatments can improve the appearance of jowls with minimal downtime, and results last around 12 months. These minimally invasive treatments are generally more suitable for individuals with mild sagging jowls. Thread lifts may reduce the appearance of mild sagging jowls . Thread lifts may provide a more defined jawline and reduce sagging with minimal recovery time, while dermal fillers can restore volume to the cheeks and jawline, temporarily improving the appearance of jowls.
Another option is to combine the lower facelift with a neck lift or liposuction to the neck. This can tighten the skin on the neck and if necessary, remove any excess fat to create a more defined jawline. Together, these procedures can give you complete facial rejuvenation.
Kensington Medical is unique in that we only focus on the face. Our expert plastic surgeons are here to help give you the right advice towards looking your best. Book a consultation with our expert team today to learn more about the lower facelift or jowl lift and how it can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Let us know if you have a date in mind, we will do our best to meet any timelines you may have.
We offer specialist facial rejuvenation treatments in the heart of London. Our team of expert plastic surgeons is dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive and personalised experience. With our expertise in facial cosmetic surgery, we can help you fight back the years and delicately recover your facial freshness and youthful appearance.
Consultation
Your journey begins with a dialogue between you and your surgeon: the pre-operative consultation, which is central to the operation's success. At Kensington Medical, patients interested in surgery undergo several consultations with the surgeon. We are keen for our patients to be fully informed before deciding whether to proceed with surgery. So, we encourage them to see the surgeon more than once and ask as many questions as they wish. Typically, our patients go through two pre-operative consultations.
The first consultation tends to be face-to-face. During it, the surgeon will:
Following the first consultation, we will:
A second consultation is often necessary for the following reasons:
The second consultation can also be face-to-face. Alternatively, it can be via a video call.
Following your consultations, our medical team is always available should you have further questions before your surgery.
Pre-Operative Care
Once you have decided to go ahead with surgery, we will book your operation in one of our specialist cosmetic surgery hospitals.
Before your operation, you will be sent a health questionnaire. This will be reviewed by your anaesthetist, who may call you to discuss specific aspects of your medical history. In certain cases, you may be required to attend the clinic for blood tests. This will be discussed with you by one of our medical team members before your scheduled appointment date.
We will also issue you with preoperative instructions. In particular:
On The Day Of The Procedure
You will arrive at least one hour before the time of your procedure. The nursing staff at the hospital will monitor your blood pressure and other relevant essentials. You will then meet your anaesthetist and surgeon for a final markup.
The actual operation involves carefully sculpting and repositioning underlying tissue and fat within the face to create a more youthful contour around the eyes, chin, neckline, and jawline area. The result is smoother skin texture while preserving natural facial expressions throughout different movements. The incisions are then closed using sutures. This will leave small scars hidden along areas such as the hairline or scalp, which can fade over time depending on how well they are cared for.
We typically perform this procedure under general anaesthesia. It lasts 2.5h to 3.5h.
Post-Operative Care
Aftercare following a facelift is essential to ensure we achieve optimal results.
Following your surgery, you will be transferred to the hospital’s recovery room, where the nursing staff will ensure that your recovery is smooth. You should stay there for two to four hours, depending on the surgery. Once the nursing team are happy that you are in a fit state to go home, you will leave the hospital accompanied by a friend or a family member. You should also arrange for someone to stay with you overnight for the first night following your operation. Generally, post-operative pain is minimal, but you will be given pain killers in case you need them.
Once you have been discharged from the hospital, our nursing team will be available 24/7 to ensure your post-operative journey is comfortable and pain-free and to field any questions you may have.
Your surgeon will see you a number of times in the weeks following your operation to monitor the facial skin and scars and to support you:
Bruising and swelling can last up to one month following this surgery.
Post-Operative Instructions
Our medical team will provide detailed aftercare instructions based on your current health status and treatment received, including when it is appropriate for you to resume normal activities such as exercise, wearing makeup, and strenuous movements. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to avoid complications or risks associated with the procedure.
Protecting your face from sun exposure is especially important, as it can cause scarring, discolouration, and other unwanted side effects. Wear sunscreen when outdoors and use hats or umbrellas if possible. It would be best to avoid strenuous activities involving facial movements, such as exercise and sports, until cleared by our medical team at Kensington Medical.
By following the instructions of our medical team and taking precautions to protect your face, you can ensure that you achieve the best results from facelift surgery. Following a healthy lifestyle with sufficient rest, nutrition, and hydration is essential for healing and maintaining long-term effects. It is strongly recommended to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption before and during the recovery period.
Mr David Gateley
Mr Amir Sadri
Mr Paul Tulley
What are the risks associated with a lower facelift?
Our surgical team will discuss any risks with you during your consultation. However, the risks associated with any surgery include:
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with a jowl lift or lower face lift. These can include:
Severe pain or discomfort
Infection or bleeding
Scarring or keloid formation
Asymmetry or unevenness
Nerve damage or numbness
Our plastic surgeons will discuss all of the risks and complications with you in consultation to determine if a jowl lift is right for you.
As with any procedure involving anaesthesia, there is always a minor risk of complications.
We will discuss these risks in more detail during your consultation. Kensington Medical takes every precaution to minimise these risks.
What is the recovery time from a lower facelift?
Most patients take about two weeks to recover from the surgery. During this time, you may have some swelling and bruising. Avoiding strenuous activity and following our post-operative instructions can help speed up recovery.
We recommend resting in a reclining chair or lying down with your head elevated for the first few days following surgery. Also, don't use a pillow while sleeping for at least a week to prevent putting pressure on your face.
Our team will provide specific instructions on caring for your incisions and what activities to avoid during recovery. We'll schedule a follow-up appointment, so you know what to expect. During this appointment, your plastic surgeon will check on your healing and answer questions you may have.
When can I see the results?
You should see results within a few weeks of your surgery, and the results will continue to improve as you heal.
How long do the results last?
One of the key advantages of jowl lift surgery is its ability to deliver long-lasting improvements in facial contours and a more youthful appearance. Most patients can expect the results of lift surgery to last 10 to 15 years or even longer, depending on factors such as skin quality, genetics, and lifestyle choices. The longevity of your results is also influenced by the skill of your surgeon and the quality of aftercare you receive.
Non surgical treatments can also provide impressive results, especially when used to maintain or enhance the effects of surgery. However, these treatments typically require regular maintenance sessions—such as repeat dermal filler injections or periodic skin tightening treatments—to sustain a more youthful appearance. The duration of results from non surgical options will vary depending on the specific treatment and your individual skin characteristics.
To maximise and prolong the benefits of both surgical and non surgical treatments, adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and protecting your skin from sun damage. Incorporating specialist anti ageing products into your daily skincare routine can further support skin health and elasticity. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon or practitioner allow for ongoing assessment and adjustments to your treatment plan, ensuring you continue to enjoy natural-looking, refreshed results for years to come. At Kensington Medical, we are committed to supporting you throughout your facial rejuvenation journey, helping you achieve and maintain your aesthetic goals.
What scarring can I expect?
There will be small scars near the hairline. These scars are usually well-hidden in the natural skin folds.
How much does a lower facelift cost?
A lower face lift cost varies depending on whether it is performed in conjunction with other procedures and whether a hospital stay is required. Following the consultation, our team provides a full estimate for the surgery. If you schedule more than one procedure, the initial cost will be higher, but the overall savings are more significant because you will be going into hospital only once. The price for a lower lift or jowl lift is from £9,500. It depends on the complexity of the surgery and includes:
Kensington Medical is committed to providing high-quality care at a fair price. Get in touch to find out more.
To find out more about Kensington Medical and why we only specialise in facial cosmetic surgery; our 5 star hospitals, our expert plastic surgeons and learn about our values and why we work very hard to follow them, click here:
How should I prepare for the procedure?
You should avoid taking medications that thin the blood or increase bleeding, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for two weeks before surgery. You may need to stop other medications and supplements. Our team will give you specific instructions during your consultation.
Deciding to have surgery is a big decision. We are here to chat; please give us a call and we can answer any initial questions.
A consultation in our Harley street, London or Wimbledon clinic will give you more comprehensive information and allow our expert plastic surgeon to talk about what you are hoping to achieve.
We will sit down with you and discuss your goals, any timelines you may have and answer your questions, show you before and after photos of a lower facelift or jowl lift and develop a plan that's right for you.
Contact us today on 0204 5514892 or fill in the lower facelift, jowl lift surgery contact form.
Medically reviewed by Mr David Gateley MA, FRCS, FRCS (Plast), GMC number 2939470 on 2 April, 2026.
Sagging jowls are a common aesthetic concern that many people experience as they age, often leading to a loss of jawline definition and a less youthful facial profile. Understanding the underlying causes of sagging jowls is essential for selecting the most effective treatment options and achieving natural-looking, long-lasting results.
One of the primary reasons for the development of sagging jowls is the gradual loss of skin elasticity. As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin—key proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and resilient. This reduction in skin elasticity leads to sagging skin, particularly along the jawline and lower face. In addition, the weakening of underlying facial muscles and connective tissue can further contribute to the appearance of loose skin and jowls.
Excess fat accumulation in the lower face and neck area is another significant factor. Over time, fat can shift or accumulate beneath the chin and along the jawline, resulting in a double chin or more pronounced jowls. Genetics also play a role, as some individuals are more predisposed to developing sagging jowls due to their unique facial anatomy and inherited skin characteristics.
By exploring the most suitable treatment options, you can restore a more defined jawline, rejuvenate your facial contours, and enjoy renewed self-confidence. At Kensington Medical, our expert team is dedicated to helping you achieve natural, youthful results through a holistic approach to facial rejuvenation.