As we age, our face naturally loses volume. The skin becomes thinner, less elastic, and gravity starts to pull it downward. One of the most common signs of aging is the development of jowls. Jowls are the sagging skin that appears around the jawline and lower cheeks. They can make the face look tired, sad, or older than it is.
Jowls form for several reasons. The main causes include:
- Loss of collagen and elastin in the skin
- Decreased facial fat in the mid-face
- Skin laxity due to aging
- Genetics
- Weight fluctuations
- Sun exposure
- Smoking
These factors combine to create a droopy appearance along the jawline. The good news is that there are non-surgical options to help restore firmness and contour. One of the most effective treatments is facial fillers.
What Are Facial Fillers?
Facial fillers, also known as dermal fillers, are injectable substances used to add volume to different areas of the face. They are commonly used to smooth wrinkles, plump lips, and lift sagging skin. When used correctly, fillers can provide a natural, youthful look without surgery.
For jowls, fillers can help by:
- Lifting sagging skin
- Replacing lost volume in the cheeks and chin
- Enhancing jawline definition
- Balancing facial proportions
The right filler, placed in the right area, can make a big difference.
Best Facial Fillers For Jowls
Not all fillers are the same. Different products work in different ways and are suited for different parts of the face. For treating jowls, it’s important to choose a filler that offers strong lifting ability, good longevity, and a natural feel. Below are the best facial fillers used by professionals to target jowls.
1. Juvederm Voluma XC
Juvederm Voluma is a thick hyaluronic acid filler. It is designed to add volume to the cheeks and mid-face. By lifting this area, it indirectly improves the appearance of jowls. This filler is often used in combination with other techniques to give a more youthful look.
Benefits:
- Provides deep volume
- Lifts the mid-face, which reduces jowling
- Long-lasting (up to 18–24 months)
- Smooth and natural appearance
Best for: People with early to moderate jowls and volume loss in the cheeks.
2. Restylane Lyft
Restylane Lyft is another strong hyaluronic acid filler that is commonly used for lifting and contouring. It’s ideal for restoring volume to the cheeks and jawline. It can help create a smoother transition from the cheeks to the lower face.
Benefits:
- Strong lifting capacity
- Good structural support
- Effective for jawline and chin contouring
- Lasts 12–18 months
Best for: Individuals with noticeable sagging who want better jaw definition.
3. Radiesse
Radiesse is a unique filler made of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA). It stimulates collagen production while providing immediate volume. Because of its thicker consistency, it works well for deep folds and jawline sculpting. Radiesse is not used directly in the jowls but rather in nearby areas to lift the skin.
Benefits:
- Builds collagen over time
- Immediate and long-lasting results
- Firm texture ideal for lower face lifting
- Results last 12–18 months or longer
Best for: Patients with moderate to advanced jowling and skin laxity.
4. Sculptra Aesthetic
Sculptra is not a traditional filler. It is made of poly-L-lactic acid and works by stimulating collagen growth over several months. Instead of providing immediate volume, it helps the skin rebuild its own structure. Sculptra is often used for overall facial rejuvenation and improving skin quality.
Benefits:
- Boosts natural collagen production
- Gradual and subtle results
- Long-lasting (up to 2 years)
- Improves skin thickness and firmness
Best for: Those seeking long-term improvement and natural-looking results.
5. Juvederm Volux
Juvederm Volux is one of the newest fillers designed specifically for the jawline and chin. It’s a very dense filler that provides excellent structure and definition. It is ideal for reshaping the jaw and reducing the look of jowls by creating a sharper edge along the lower face.
Benefits:
- High lifting power
- Long-lasting support (up to 18–24 months)
- Excellent for jaw sculpting
- Creates a defined and contoured look
Best for: Younger patients with mild jowls or those wanting a sharper jawline.
How Fillers Help With Jowls
Facial fillers do not go directly into the jowls. Instead, they are placed in nearby areas to lift the skin and improve support. Here are the key treatment zones:
- Cheeks: Adding volume here lifts the mid-face, which pulls the skin upward and reduces jowls.
- Jawline: Strengthening this area helps support the lower face and defines the jaw contour.
- Chin: Enhancing the chin can improve the overall balance of the face and reduce sagging.
- Pre-jowl sulcus: This is the area just in front of the jowls. Filling it can create a smoother jawline.
By targeting these areas, the face appears more youthful, lifted, and harmonious.
What To Expect During Treatment
Filler treatments are usually done in a medical clinic. The procedure is simple and takes around 30 to 60 minutes. Here is what you can expect:
- Consultation: The provider will assess your face and discuss your goals.
- Marking: The areas for injection will be marked.
- Numbing: A numbing cream or local anesthetic may be used for comfort.
- Injection: The filler is carefully injected using a needle or cannula.
- Massage: The treated areas may be gently massaged to shape the filler.
- Aftercare: You will receive instructions on how to care for the area post-treatment.
Most people can return to normal activities right away. There may be some redness, swelling, or bruising, but these usually go away within a few days.
How Long Do Results Last?
The longevity of filler results depends on the type of filler used, your metabolism, and the area treated. On average:
- Hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm, Restylane): 12–24 months
- Radiesse: 12–18 months
- Sculptra: Up to 2 years or longer
Touch-ups are often recommended every 12–18 months to maintain results.
Who Is A Good Candidate?
Facial fillers for jowls are suitable for both men and women who:
- Have mild to moderate sagging
- Want a non-surgical lift
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations
They are not recommended for people with severe skin laxity or major sagging. In those cases, a surgical facelift may be more effective.
Risks and Side Effects
When done by a trained provider, fillers are generally safe. However, like any medical treatment, there are some risks:
- Swelling and bruising
- Redness or tenderness
- Asymmetry
- Lumps or bumps
- Infection (rare)
- Allergic reaction (very rare)
To minimize risks, always choose a qualified and experienced injector. Avoid bargain clinics or unlicensed practitioners.
Combining Fillers With Other Treatments
To get the best results for jowls, fillers can be combined with other non-surgical treatments, such as:
- Ultherapy or HIFU: These treatments use ultrasound energy to tighten deep layers of skin.
- Radiofrequency treatments: Help to firm the skin and improve texture.
- Thread lifts: Use dissolvable threads to lift sagging skin.
- Botox: Can relax the muscles that pull down the corners of the mouth, enhancing the filler effect.
- Skin resurfacing: Treatments like microneedling or laser can improve skin quality.
Combining treatments allows for a more complete facial rejuvenation.
Choosing the Right Filler and Provider
Choosing the right filler is important, but even more important is choosing the right injector. A skilled provider knows how to assess your face, select the right product, and place it safely and effectively.
Look for:
- Medical professionals with experience in facial aesthetics
- Board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons
- Clinics with good reviews and before-and-after photos
- A provider who listens to your concerns and explains your options
Don’t be afraid to ask questions during your consultation. Your face deserves expert care.
Final Thoughts
Jowls are a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. Today, facial fillers offer a safe and effective way to restore a youthful jawline without surgery. By lifting and contouring the face, fillers can improve sagging, enhance your appearance, and boost your confidence.
The best filler for you depends on your needs, goals, and facial structure. Whether you’re just starting to see signs of aging or want to refresh your look, fillers can be a powerful tool in your beauty journey. Always consult with a qualified medical expert to find the best plan for your face.
If you’re considering facial fillers for jowls, take the next step. Schedule a consultation and learn how you can look refreshed, natural, and confident—without going under the knife.
Related topics:
Does a Neck Lift Improve Jowls? What You Need to Know
How Long Does A Jowl Lift Last?
Does Buccal Fat Removal Help With Jowls?
