Most people don't think about their jawline unless there's an obvious imbalance. Yet the jawline is the "anchor" of the face and affects the face profile in more ways than one so it begs the question Is jaw filler the answer?.
It's, therefore, surprising that there's only one FDA-approved filler for use in the jawline. Juvéderm's Volux received the go-ahead in late 2022.
Fortunately, savvy and experienced doctors have been using HA fillers off-label to balance the lower face for years.
That's a good thing because, historically, dermal fillers have largely focused on the upper to mid-face region. However, before you rush to book an appointment, it is important to discuss the benefits and limitations of jaw fillers.
What is jaw filler?
Jaw filler is a popular cosmetic treatment done by injecting hyaluronic acid dermal fillers into your jawline area to enhance its shape and contour.
When it comes to choosing the right filler, most plastic surgeons and cosmetic doctors prefer using reversible hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvéderm Voluma XC and Intraline. These fillers are not only safe, but they're also predictable and adjustable. So, if you're not happy with the results or experience any side effects, they can easily be dissolved.
Using hyaluronic acid fillers is a great option because they provide a more natural-looking result. Since hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body, it blends well with your skin and gives a smooth and natural appearance.
Bring balance to the lower face.
The overarching principle of jawline filler is not just about enhancing the appearance of the jawline, but also restoring facial harmony by balancing it with other facial features. A weak or deficient jawline can take many different forms, such as a small or retrusive chin or a jawbone with weak angles.
Since the jawline and chin are crucial parts of the overall facial structure, any adjustments made to them can have a significant impact on a person's appearance. During the treatment, the entire jawline area is evaluated as an "aesthetic unit" to ensure that the outcome is cohesive and balanced, even if only one specific area requires enhancement.
The ultimate goal of jawline filler treatment is to restore balance and proportion to the face. By adding definition to the jawline, a more elegant contour can be created as it transitions into the neck. The outcome can vary based on personal preference. Some may desire a chiselled jawline, while others may prefer a more elongated effect.
Camouflage fine lines and wrinkles.
Jaw filler can also help to camouflage fine lines that can form due to ageing. As we age, our bones change, and the lower face gains volume while the jawline widens. This can lead to sagging skin, jowls, and deeper fine lines around the jawline and neck.
Strategic placement of filler in the chin and the pre-jowl sulcus (the dip beneath the chin where it meets the jowls) can help to give the chin a more pronounced projection and plump the area. This can reduce the appearance of superficial wrinkles and create a smoother, more rejuvenated jaw contour.
Surprising alternative to surgical treatments.
Many people may not realize the impact that a well-defined jawline can have on the overall appearance of their face. The jawline serves as the anchor of the face and can affect the way other features are perceived. For example, a weak chin can make the nose appear larger or the neck appear saggier.
This is where jaw filler can come in as a surprising alternative to surgical treatments. By adding volume and contour to the chin and jawline, a skilled injector can create a more balanced and harmonious facial profile.
Patients may be surprised to learn that chin fillers can even make the nose appear smaller as the proportions of the face are adjusted.
This can make it a great option for those considering surgical rhinoplasty, as it provides a less invasive way to achieve the desired results.
It's important to choose a doctor who has a deep understanding of facial anatomy and the relationships between various parts of the face. They can recommend the best course of treatment to achieve the desired outcome while ensuring that the final result looks natural and balanced.
The downsides of jaw fillers
Although jawline fillers can help redefine the structural shape of the face, there are a few downsides to consider. First, fillers can only do so much, especially when it comes to addressing skin laxity or jowls.
If there's too much skin sagging, filler won't be able to provide the desired improvement. Additionally, since fillers add weight to the face, they may contribute to the effects of gravity over time.
Another issue to keep in mind is that the results of jawline fillers are temporary. The body starts metabolising the filler as soon as it is injected. Depending on the product, the volume used, and the degree of 'correction'," the range lies anywhere from as short as six months to as long as 2 years.
That means, at one point, you'll need to get another treatment to maintain the look you want. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, surgery might be a better option.
It's also important to note that not everyone is a candidate for jawline filler. If you already have a square or well-defined jawline, you may not need or want additional enhancement. However, as long as you don't have allergies to hyaluronic acid or other fillers, you may be a suitable candidate for jawline filler.
What else do I need to know about jaw fillers?
It's important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to the jawline and chin treatments. Every patient's facial structure is unique, so it's crucial to find an experienced injector who understands how to tailor the treatment to your individual features.
The first step in achieving your desired look is booking a consultation with a qualified injector who will conduct a thorough evaluation of your facial structure to determine the best approach. In fact, we recently published a blog that explains the importance of pre-treatment consultations.
Jawline filler is typically a quick and painless procedure that takes around 30 minutes to complete. Patients may experience a bit of pressure during the injection, but it's generally well-tolerated.
To ensure a smooth and natural-looking result, small amounts of filler may be added to neighbouring areas to blend the contour and establish a seamless transition.
At Dr Aesthetica, we take a less is more approach to jawline filler, placing small amounts along the jawbone to highlight a defined jaw rather than using large volumes of filler. This approach ensures that the results are natural-looking and long-lasting.
Book Your Jaw Filler Treatment
If you are considering this treatment and are in Birmingham or within the larger metropolitan area, we welcome you to Dr Aesthetica. We are one of the leading medical aesthetics clinics and have one of the highest patient satisfaction rates in the industry. Get in touch with our staff to book a consultation via Phone: 0121 769 0242 or Email: [email protected]
