Jowls can add years to our appearance, often creating an uneven jawline and diminishing facial contours. Fortunately, filler treatments have revolutionized non-surgical options for restoring volume and structure, but there’s a catch: filler jowls can sometimes have unintended results if not done carefully. Let’s break down what causes filler jowls, how to avoid them, and what options are available to correct them.
What Are Filler Jowls?
Filler jowls happen when dermal fillers, meant to enhance facial volume, inadvertently create extra heaviness along the jawline. This can lead to the appearance of jowls or even exaggerate existing sagging skin, which may make one look older or tired. The reasons vary, from overfilling certain areas to using heavier filler products that naturally migrate downward due to gravity.
Why Filler Jowls Occur: Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
While fillers are designed to add volume and smooth wrinkles, here are some common reasons why filler jowls develop:
- Overfilling Cheeks: When too much filler is placed in the cheeks, it can gradually shift downwards, pooling near the jawline and causing jowls.
- Heavy Filler Choice: Certain fillers are denser and, if placed incorrectly, can add weight to areas prone to sagging.
- Improper Technique: Injections in the wrong layer of the skin or incorrect placement can lead to a less-than-ideal outcome.
Tips for Avoiding Filler Jowls
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Seek a Skilled Professional: Not all injectors have the same level of expertise. Research your practitioner’s credentials and seek someone with experience in facial anatomy and injectable techniques.
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Less Is More: When it comes to fillers, a conservative approach often yields the best results. Start with minimal amounts and assess over time if more is necessary.
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Choose the Right Filler Type: Opt for lightweight fillers specifically designed for the targeted area. A skilled professional can help select a product that maintains volume without weighing down the jawline.
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Consider Alternatives to Fillers: Sometimes, alternative treatments like thread lifts, radiofrequency skin tightening, or even Botox in the masseter muscles can enhance the jawline without adding volume that might contribute to jowling.
Treatment Options for Correcting Filler Jowls
If filler jowls have already developed, there are several effective options for correction. These can restore the jawline, reduce unwanted volume, and help skin appear lifted and rejuvenated.
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Filler Dissolution (Using Hyaluronidase): If your filler was hyaluronic acid-based, hyaluronidase can dissolve the filler to remove excess volume. This enzyme breaks down the filler within a few days, allowing you to start fresh or opt for a different treatment.
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Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Treatments: Techniques like Ultherapy, radiofrequency therapy, and laser tightening treatments stimulate collagen production and can lift sagging skin around the jawline, reducing the appearance of jowls.
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Jawline Contouring with Chin and Jawline Filler: A small amount of filler along the jawline can help to reshape and add definition, creating a balanced appearance. Just remember to go light to avoid the same pitfalls as before.
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Thread Lifts for Lifting and Support: Thread lifts use temporary sutures to lift the skin, reducing sagging and improving contour without adding volume.
Preventing Jowls Long-Term
Even if fillers aren’t your first choice, certain practices can keep your skin looking youthful and minimize jowls naturally:
- Daily Sun Protection: UV rays break down collagen and elastin, which are critical for firm skin. A good sunscreen can be one of the best ways to maintain skin elasticity.
- Hydration and a Balanced Diet: Healthy skin begins from within. Ensure your diet is rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and sufficient hydration.
- Consistent Skincare Routine: Use products containing collagen-boosting ingredients like retinoids, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to keep skin firm and hydrated.
Wrapping It Up
Filler jowls are a common concern, but with the right approach, they can be avoided or effectively corrected. Choosing a skilled professional, opting for light fillers, and exploring alternative treatments can help you achieve a refined jawline without the heaviness that leads to jowling. For a sculpted, smooth jawline, consult with an experienced injector, and remember, sometimes less is more when it comes to fillers!