Jawline Enhancement Guide: Best Non-Surgical and Surgical Options

A well-defined jawline has long been associated with youth and beauty. Whether you want a chiseled jawline or are simply looking to address issues like jowls and excess fat, there is a range of exercises and treatments available to help achieve a desired look. In this guide, we will explore both non-surgical and surgical options, along with exercises and lifestyle practices to effectively sculpt your jawline.

Understanding Jaw Structure & Factors That Affect Definition

The jawline plays a pivotal role in defining facial aesthetics, contributing significantly to one’s overall appearance. A strong, well-defined jawline is often associated with attractiveness, vitality, and confidence. It frames the face, providing structure and symmetry, while also influencing perceived age and health.

Several factors impact jawline definition, including genetics, age, weight fluctuations, and lifestyle habits. Genetics determine baseline bone structure and soft tissue distribution, influencing how prominent or recessed the jawline appears. As we age, changes in collagen and elastin production can lead to sagging skin and loss of definition, particularly around the jaw and neck area. Weight fluctuations may also affect the appearance of the jawline, with excess fat accumulation contributing to a softer, less defined contour.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Jawline Enhancement

For those seeking non-invasive options to enhance their jawline, several treatments offer promising results:

Dermal Fillers (Jawline Fillers)

Dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid can be strategically injected along the jawline to add targeted volume and definition. This minimally invasive procedure provides immediate results, without the pain or downtime associated with surgery. Filler injection results, while dramatic, are temporary with most patients realizing benefits that last from six months to one year. Results can be extended over a longer period with regular maintenance treatments.

Botox

The gold standard for wrinkle reduction, Botox (or other neurotoxins like Dysport or Xeomin) injections can also be used to relax the muscles responsible for creating a “square” or overly prominent jawline. By targeting specific muscle groups, Botox can achieve a slimmer, more contoured appearance. Like fillers, Botox results are temporary but can be maintained with periodic treatments.

Kybella

Kybella is an injectable treatment that is designed and FDA approved to reduce submental fat, commonly known as a double chin. When injected into targeted fat pockets under the chin, Kybella causes the rapid destruction and absorption of fat cells while also preventing future fat accumulation. After treatment, the fat that is cleared from the area is processed by the body’s natural metabolic process. Ideal for patients whose primary issue is excess fat, Kybella works to dissolve excess fat cells beneath the chin, improving jawline definition and creating a more sculpted profile.

Genius RF (Radiofrequency Energy)

Genius RF utilizes radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin along the jawline. The Genius system uses ultrafine needles to create controlled damage to the skin, producing a series of tiny punctures on the skin’s surface. Fractional radiofrequency heat is simultaneously delivered to deep layers of the skin through the micro-needle created punctures, which act as delivery channels. These combined efforts stimulate the skin’s collagen and elastin production, leading to improved contouring and firmness.

CoolSculpting

Another great option for addressing double chin, CoolSculpting targets stubborn fat deposits through controlled cooling, effectively reducing excess fat beneath the chin and along the jawline. The procedure involves the use of precisely controlled cooling technology to target, cool and safely eliminate fat cells through a gradual and natural process without causing damage to the surrounding tissue and skin. While results vary per patient, a single CoolSculpting treatment can reduce the fat layer thickness by an average of 20%-25%.

Ultherapy

Ultherapy is a great option for individuals who have excess or sagging skin along the jawline. Ultherapy harnesses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin, addressing sagging and laxity along the jawline and neck. This non-surgical procedure works by gently heating the tissue to lift and tighten loose skin without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. Your skin’s response to the energy is to stimulate the growth of new collagen. By stimulating collagen synthesis at deeper tissue levels, Ultherapy provides long-lasting rejuvenation with minimal discomfort.

Surgical Treatments for Jawline Enhancement

In cases where more significant enhancement is desired or non-surgical options are insufficient, surgical procedures may be considered:

Liposuction

The gold standard in surgical fat removal, Liposuction can be performed to remove isolated pockets of excess fat along the chin, neck, and jawline. This surgical technique involves the suction-assisted removal of fat cells through small incisions, resulting in improved definition and proportion. Skilled liposuction providers strategically remove areas of fat to completely recontour the jawline, creating a more prominent and chiseled look. Lipo results are dramatic and permanent if they are properly maintained.

Neck Lift

Neck lift surgery is a great option for patients with inelastic skin and an accumulation of fat in the lower face, specifically beneath the chin and jaw. A neck lift procedure focuses on the removal of excess skin and tightening the skin and underlying muscles of the neck and jawline, addressing sagging skin, jowls, and the appearance of a “turkey neck.” The procedure involves removing fat deposits from the jowls, beneath the chin and around the neck, tightening neck muscles, and removing any excess skin to achieve a sharper and more aesthetically pleasing angle between the jawline and the neck. By lifting and repositioning tissue, a neck lift can restore a youthful, sculpted jawline.

Jaw Implant / Chin Implants

Implants are an effective treatment options for those with receding or “weak” chin or jawlines. Jaw implants or chin implants can enhance the size and projection of the lower jaw, improving jawline definition and balance. Like breast implants, jaw or chin implants are typically made of silicone or other biocompatible materials. The procedure consists of the creation of a pocket along the jawbone through a series of incisions (typically placed inside the mouth). The implant is then placed inside the pocket and the incision is closed with sutures. Most patients can return to work within 7 days of the procedure, while full recovery occurring 4-6 months after surgery.

Jawline Enhancing Exercises

In addition to professional treatments, incorporating targeted exercises into your routine can help strengthen and define the muscles of the jaw and neck. Some effective exercises include:

• Jawline lifts: Tilt your head back slightly and lift your chin toward the ceiling, feeling the muscles in your neck and jawline engage. Hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat for several repetitions.
• Chin tucks: Sit or stand with a straight posture and gently tuck your chin toward your chest, feeling a stretch along the front of your neck. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat several times.
• Resistance jawline exercises: Place your fists under your chin and apply gentle resistance as you try to open your mouth. Hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat several times to strengthen the muscles of the jawline.

Nutrition and Other Daily Practices for the Best Jawline

In addition to exercises and treatments, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can positively impact jawline definition:

• Stay hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and overall facial appearance. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Balanced diet: A diet rich in lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can support collagen production and skin health, contributing to a more defined jawline.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking accelerates the aging process and can lead to sagging skin and loss of elasticity, negatively impacting jawline definition.
• Skincare routine: Incorporate skincare products containing ingredients like retinol and vitamin C to promote collagen production and skin firmness.

Sculpting a defined jawline is achievable through a combination of targeted exercises, professional treatments, and healthy lifestyle practices. By understanding the factors that influence jawline definition and exploring various treatment options, individuals can enhance their facial aesthetics and boost their confidence with a more sculpted appearance.

Daniela Atencio, MD is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with fellowship training in cosmetic surgery. She learned from nationally renowned plastic surgeons and obtained extensive training in the entire spectrum of reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. Dr. Atencio’s surgical interest is focused on face and breast aesthetics, as well as body-contouring surgery. She has extensive training and experience in both surgical and non-surgical modalities.