"Hated my jowls, every time I looked in the mirror. I've got my confidence back. Why I waited was crazy". Louise B
At Kensington Medical, Jowl lift surgery or a lower facelift is one of the most popular facelifts we do. Why, because the results are natural and the recovery time is short.
A lower facelift or jowl lift will target the lower face, treat jowls, the jawline, cheeks and the nose to mouth area, giving you a natural and refreshed look . There are various surgical methods available to treat sagging jowls, including lower facelifts, mini facelifts, neck lifts, and liposuction. A personalised consultation with our GMC Specialist Registered facial plastic surgeons can help you decide the best option.
“A lower facelift is best for someone who has mild to moderate skin laxity in the lower face with obvious jowls and a slightly loose neck. It helps with jowling, helps lift the cheek area and lower face. Main benefits are less downtime and less risk as opposed to a full facelift.”
Mr David Gateley Consultant Facial Plastic Surgeon and Medical Director
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
We find the appearance of jowls is often due to volume loss, skin loses elasticity as we age 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, effective at treating 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 can effectively give you a neck lift creating the natural looking results so many of our patients ask for.
For severe jowls and advanced facial sagging, a surgical facelift is considered best for tightening and rejuvenating the lower face and jawline.
If you feel that your appearance does not reflect how you feel, it may be worth talking to one of our GMC Specialist Registered Facelift surgeons about a lower facelift procedure or jowl lift.
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.
A lower face lift, improves the appearance of the lower face and the lower jawline by removing excess skin and toning up underlying muscles so the jawline appears smoother. This procedure is particularly effective for individuals experiencing moderate facial sagging, which often results from ageing-related changes in skin elasticity and weakening connective tissues.
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.
Jowls are a common concern as they age. A jowl is a sagging or drooping of the skin and tissue in the lower face, typically along the jawline. They are 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, contribute to jowls formation by decreasing skin firmness and resilience.
Jowls develop due to a combination of factors, including genetics, weight gain and loss, and the natural ageing process. As we age, the skin and muscles in the face begin to lose their elasticity and firmness, volume loss kicks in, creating a jowl formation. 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 lower facelift before and after photos. 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.
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 or SMAS layer 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 addresses concerns in the lower two-thirds of the face and a SMAS facelift can achieve that. In fact it can be a successful way to rejuvenate the lower face and neck area.
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 also have a double chin that develops alongside sagging jowls, we can address that during your facial surgery. It may involve some micro liposuction to slim down the neck area and improve skin firmness and contour. In your consultation our plastic surgeons will let you know if some micro liposuction is needed and this is done in the same surgical procedure. Not only does it create a refreshed face and neck, patients tell us that many people think they have lost weight due to the slimming down of the chin and neck area. It's a highly successful procedure and we only have delighted patients. Please ask in consultation to see the combined lower facelift with micro liposuction combination.
If you want to remove sagging jowls without surgery, there are non surgical treatments that are available. Dermal fillers can add volume to areas affected by volume loss and help smooth along the jawline. By restoring lost volume, dermal fillers can temporarily reduce sagging jowls and help with facial definition. It is not permanent to note we do have many patients who decide to dissolve fillers as they can migrate down and this can create a square jawline.
Skin tightening treatments, such as radiofrequency, ultrasound-based therapies, work by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity. These treatments can help tighten loose skin with mild skin laxity.
While non surgical treatments can deliver improvements with minimal downtime, however the results are less dramatic and do not last more than 12 months making it an expensive option. During your consultation at Kensington Medical, our specialists will explain most suitable non surgical options and surgical options to rid yourself of noticeable jowls and rejuvenate the lower face.
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.
There are a number of things you need to think about for your Jowl lift surgery to be successful.
1. The most common side effects of a jowl lift include temporary swelling, bruising, and feeling uncomforting with tightness in the lower face and neck. We will advise on medication for discomfort.
2. In your first week you will wear a face band. This is to ensure that the swelling reduces quickly. We find most swelling subsides within the first two weeks and continues over the next few months although you will notice the results after the first week.
3. We advise you to advise you to sleep with several pillows over at least three or four weeks to keep your head elevated so that you can work towards reducing the swelling.
4. You may have some bruising. It will start to initially come out along the side of the face and possible may drop to some parts of your neck area. They appear as blue and then reduce to a yellow shade. After the first week you can apply cold compressors to help with bruising and swelling. The bruising takes only a few weeks to disappear.
5. During the first few weeks of recovery, patients need to take it easy. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 6 weeks. Light walking and movement is ok.
6. Most of our patients return to work after two weeks. We have many patients who work from home at the start of Week 2. Returning to the office at week 3.
7. You will be provided with dates for your post-operative check-up appointment. In the first post-operative check-up at the start of week two after your surgery our surgeons will check the wounds to ensure that they are on their way to recovery. Stitches are taken out at this stage. Your surgeon will advise on how to care for your wound. This will include how to clean your face and applying a Keto silicon scar cream day and night to help with the scar recovery. We advise to wear a hat and avoid any direct sunlight for at least the initial six weeks along with applying a high SPF sunblock avoid discoloration of the scar area.
The most important part of your recovery journey is to actually enjoy the process knowing that you are taking care of yourself and the wonderful results that you will be able to enjoy.
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.
At our clinic the most popular combination is eyelid surgery (upper eye lift or lower eye bag removal) to complement their lower facelift. Eyes are often the part of the face that can also age a face. Combining these procedures helps achieve facial harmony by balancing the proportions.
In addition to surgical options, there are several non-surgical treatments. These include dermal fillers (such as hyaluronic acid-based injectables like Profhilo) which can add volume to the cheeks. An alternative is fat transfer to the cheeks stimulate collagen production and restore volume and are long lasting and we prefer it to dermal fillers.
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 are short term options and for younger patients. Non-surgical treatments results last around 12 months. These minimally invasive treatments are suitable for mild sagging 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.
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. Once your face band is removed at the end of week one, you may have bruising and swelling which will subside over the next few weeks.
How long do the results last?
One of the key advantages of jowl lift surgery is its long-lasting improvements. Most patients can expect the results of lift surgery to last 10 to 15 years, 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.
To prolong the benefits of surgery , following 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 improve skin health .
What scarring can I expect?
There will be small scars near the hairline. These scars are usually well-hidden in the natural skin folds. At Kensington Medical we recommend Keto silicon scar cream. This will be explained in your post operative appointment,
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:
The surgical fee
The hospital fee
The anaesthesia
The post-operative consultations and care
To find out more about facelift costs visit our dedicated page here.
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.
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 can be a part of developing sagging jowls due to their unique facial anatomy.
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.
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.
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 15 May 2026.
Author: Louise Braham