nico-marks-25gAg2MOXxQ-unsplash

Before the advent of non-surgical treatments, the only reliable options for contouring the jawline for a more perfect profile were [facelifts](https://aedit.com/procedure/facelift-rhytidectomy) and [neck lifts](https://aedit.com/procedure/neck-lift-lower-rhytidectomy). Today, [thread lifts](https://aedit.com/aedition/pdo-thread-lift-for-facial-rejuvenation), energy-based tightening tools, and the [off-label use](https://aedit.com/aedition/where-to-use-botox-from-head-to-toe) of injectables (think: Botox® and filler) are just a few of the minimally invasive ways providers can address [aesthetic jaw concerns](https://aedit.com/concern/neck-and-jawline-definition). “Rather than undergo invasive procedures that require general anesthesia and prolonged recovery times, non-surgical cosmetic procedures can temporarily sculpt the jawline with local anesthesia and limited recovery time,” says [Brendan Camp, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/brendan-camp-md-34645), a board certified dermatologist in New York City.

So, if you're looking for the best ways to tighten your jawline and [shape your face](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-reshape-your-face-with-filler-botox-injectables), we've found the best [non-surgical solutions](https://aedit.com/procedure/neck-and-jawline-definition-solutions) — from A to Z — that will help you achieve a sculpted, chiseled look without going under the knife.

## **Understanding the Aging Jawline**
[Clinical research](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29224033/) proves how bothersome a poorly defined chin-neck area can be. Social media and even the [rise of video calls](https://aedit.com/aedition/aedit-survey-reveals-how-2020-altered-aesthetic-landscape) play a role in the desire to obtain a sharper jawline. “Undoubtedly, influenced perceptions about the importance of a structured jawline creates the desire to make the often-masked bottom half of the face as presentable as the top half,” Dr. Camp notes.

Even so, the jawline is a rather tricky area to treat because of the surrounding features (i.e. the [chin](https://aedit.com/concern/chin-shape-and-size) and the neck) that affect its look. “A weak chin or bony support needs different treatment than extra fat under the chin,” says [Yael Halaas, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/yael-halaas-md-236), a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in NYC. So, even if a weak jawline is a primary concern, fat, muscle, loose skin, and bonyness must be considered since they all influence the outcome.

An angular jawline with just the right amount of definition is what both men and women are constantly chasing, says [Jason Emer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), a board certified dermatologist in West Hollywood. “Men want a more square, masculine look, and women desire that chiseled, heart-shaped face,” he shares. But it can be hard to achieve that if the underlying structure is not naturally there. “Fillers are the only way to create structure in the jawline short of [implants](https://aedit.com/procedure/jaw-implant) or [jaw surgery](https://aedit.com/procedure/orthognathic-surgery),” he notes.

With that in mind, below are seven of the best at-home and in-office ways to achieve a [more sculpted jawline](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-more-defined-jawline) — sans surgery:

## **1. The Magic of Makeup**
Makeup is the quickest and cheapest option to define the jawline, and the best way to add definition to the jawline is by placing a [contouring product](https://aedit.com/aedition/contouring-tips-from-celebrity-makeup-artist-patrick-ta) directly on the jaw and behind the ears, says celebrity makeup artist [Nydia Figueroa](https://www.instagram.com/nydiafigueroamua/). “This will create the illusion of a stronger, more defined jawline by creating a shadow that pulls back the areas that you want to appear more sculpted,” she explains. As a general rule of thumb, dark colors recede and lighter shades (including highlighter) push features forward. So, the idea is to mimic as much of a natural shadow as possible.

When contouring the jawline, stick with either cream, powders, or liquids (we like the new [KVD Beauty ModCon Liquid-Gel Contour](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kvdveganbeauty.com%2Fface%2Fcontour%2Fmodcon-liquid-gel-contour%2F20054.html)) and always go two to three shades darker than your natural skin tone. “Matte powders create soft contours, and creams are best for achieving a more dramatic, defined look,” Figueroa explains. She recommends setting the contour with a matte finishing powder. Another pro tip? Blend with a soft brush. “If the product is not well blended in with the skin, it can look dirty or create the appearance of harsh lines on your face,” she cautions.

## **2. The DIY Techy — and Not So Techy — Treatments**
You don’t need to be dealing with jaw pain or [temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder](https://aedit.com/aedition/botox-to-treat-tmj-disorders-and-jaw-slimming) to know that we hold a tremendous amount of tension in the lower portion of the face. This stress can affect the alignment of the jaw, says [Elizabeth Trattner, AP](https://elizabethtrattner.com/), a board certified acupuncturist and doctor of Chinese and integrative medicine in North Miami Beach, FL. “Techniques like gua sha, cupping, and even manual massage help to release the fascia and connective tissue and soften the muscles in the jaw, neck, and face,” she explains. They also promote blood and lymphatic circulation, which can reduce pain and swelling in the area. 

- **Massage**: For starters, [daily massage](https://aedit.com/aedition/beauty-massage-for-face-body) can help reduce puffiness in the area along the neck and under the chin, and the applied pressure can help release and sculpt the jawline. Try using a tool like [Malaya Organics 3D Sculpting Facial Rolle](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmalayaorganics.com%2Fcollections%2Faccessories%2Fproducts%2Fy-shaped-facial-sculpting-roller)r, which creates a kneading motion to make massaging a bit easier.
- **Cupping**: At-home cupping, like the [WTHN Face Cupping Kit](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwthn.com%2Fproducts%2Fface-cupping-kit), can be a quick, easy, and painless way to get one step closer to a more defined jawline. “Cupping is negative pressure that stretches the skin and underlying tissue to dilate the capillaries,” Dr. Trattner explains. “Facial cupping does not leave marks like body cupping does because the cups are always moving.” In addition, cupping helps stimulate the draining of lymph in the face for less puffiness and better definition. Pairing cupping with [acupuncture](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-facial-acupuncture-for-aging-skin-rejuvenation) provides even greater efficacy, she says.
- **Gua Sha**: Another traditional Chinese medicine option, [gua sha](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-gua-sha) employs a smooth stone to increase blood and lymphatic circulation. “It has been used for over 5,000 years to release muscle adhesions and is easier to perform on yourself, whereas cupping involves more professional skill,” Dr. Trattner notes. Using a scraping or pressing technique, the gua sha is manually rubbed across points of the face — including the jawline — to gently and safely decrease puffiness for a more contoured effect.
- **Devices**: There are also some higher tech at-home options that mimic in-office treatments. [Microcurrent devices](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-at-home-microcurrent-facials), such as the [ZIIP OX](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fziipbeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Fziip-ox), can be used to lift and sculpt the skin, while [LED light therapy tools](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-at-home-led-therapy), like the [LAB=LIFE+BEAUTY Jawline Definer](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.currentbody.com%2Fproducts%2Flab-life-beauty-jawline-definer), use light waves to stimulate collagen production and increase skin cell activity. 
- **Skincare**: Or, you can always go with a [topical firming cream](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-neck-creams-for-tech-neck-sagging-jowls), like [Payot Supreme Jeunesse Cou & Décolleté](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.payot.com%2FSG%2Fen%2Fproducts%2Fface-care%2Fsupreme-jeunesse-cou-decollete). The formula helps smooth skin with [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler) and contains firming agents like wakame and oat extract for improved contour. 

## **3. Do a Shot (of Neurotoxins) for the Right Angles**
It’s pretty standard for the muscles in the neck and jaw to become overactive with age, or you may have just been born with a prominent jaw. Either way, meticulously placed [injections of neurotoxins](https://aedit.com/procedure/jawline-slimming-with-botox) (read: Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®) can temporarily slim the lower face. “Botox® and other toxins can slenderize an overly round face, which can result from overdeveloped masseter muscles,” Dr. Halaas says.

Botox® can also be used to [improve the platysma (neck) muscle](https://aedit.com/aedition/where-to-use-botox-from-head-to-toe), which hangs like a curtain from the jaw to the clavicle (collarbone), Dr. Camp adds. “Treating this muscle can affect how it rests along the jaw to provide more shape in the appearance of the bone,” he explains. The muscles’ inability to pull down on the jawline creates tightness and more space between the neck and the jaw. While the results aren't as immediate as some other options — it can take upwards of one week to be noticeable — the smoother visage lasts about three to four months. 

## **4. For a Super Sharp Jawline, Filler Up**
Both [hyaluronic acid-based fillers](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers) (hi, [Juvéderm® Voluma](https://aedit.com/procedure/juvederm) and [Restylane® Lyft](https://aedit.com/procedure/restylane)) and biostimulatory injectables (like [Radiesse®](https://aedit.com/procedure/radiesse) and [Sculptra®](https://aedit.com/procedure/sculptra)) can build up a weak jawline and create the appearance of a strong bone. “The filler gives the jaw more of a squared-off look and a 90-degree angle at the back of the jawline,” Dr. Emer says.

Injecting filler on top of the bony portion of the jawline adds balance and support for better definition between the face and neck. However, the line between a desirable and undesirable result is thin, cautions [Neil Sadick, MD](https://sadickdermatology.com/our-team-2__trashed/neil-sadick/), a board certified dermatologist in NYC. Too much product in the area can lead to a saggy appearance, but, on the flip side, “not enough product may not give the adequate correction in terms of contour,” he says. As such, it’s necessary for the provider to understand the patient’s aesthetic goals. “It’s important to relay if you want a square jawline or a more tapered, rounded jawline,” Dr. Saddick notes.

But it's not just the jawline that requires attention. In some cases, surrounding features require added definition, too, in order to create a [harmonious result](https://aedit.com/aedition/facial-harmony-in-aesthetic-medicine). Two ‘tricks’ are to inject filler into the [cheeks and temples](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-procedures-to-define-cheekbones) and [in front of the ear](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermal-filler-for-stretched-out-earlobes-piercings), which will help add balance and symmetry throughout the face.

## **5. Goodbye, Double Chin. Hello, Jawline.**
Fat plays an integral role in a snatched jawline. When there is a bit too much of it [under the chin](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-chin-augmentation-enhancement-procedures), it can obscure the jaw’s sharp lines. “I’m seeing more patients at a younger age with double chins and skin sagging, which detracts from the jawline,” Dr. Emer notes. “They want these really chiseled jaws and chins — which is what everyone sees on celebrities and all over social media — so, usually, fat reduction needs to be a part of the plan.”

Fat under the chin occurs from a combination of genetics, aging, and diet. “As the face descends with gravity and age, the facial fat drops to lower positions along the jawline, which creates jowls,” Dr. Halaas says. “Additionally, aging and [sun damage](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-procedures-treatments-to-correct-sun-damage) cause the skin to lose elasticity and droop, both of which are bad for the jawline.”

For a small amount of fat under the chin and along the jawline, [Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella) injections and [CoolSculpting®](https://aedit.com/procedure/cool-sculpting) permanently destroy unwanted fat cells from bulky areas. There’s also [truSculpt®](https://cutera.com/trusculpt3D), a quick radiofrequency-based treatment that helps stubborn fat, too. “truSculpt® has no downtime and it contours the skin — almost like its shrink wrapping it,” Dr. Emer says. 

## **6. To Tighten & Tone**
When the skin is loose and lacks strong collagen and elastin, laser treatments may be able to help. “They can be beneficial in [more aggressive laser resurfacing](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-ablative-laser-skin-resurfacing) and can tighten the skin and tissue in the jawline area,” Dr. Sadick says. By delivering heat deep within the dermis to prompt new collagen, lasers cause a gradual tightening over time.” As he explains, the stronger the laser, the more pronounced the effect. 

Dr. Halaas says that some devices can also decrease the fatty pockets of jowls and stimulate collagen and elastin for good contraction and tightening. “Radiofrequency, in particular, can be used in different ways, like under the surface of the skin as with AccuTite or FaceTite,” says Dr. Halaas. Unlike externally applied treatments, the procedure sits somewhere between non-invasive therapies and surgery. However, because it works internally and under the skin to melt fat and chisel the jaw and neck, it does require a few days of downtime and healing. 

External treatments, like [microneedling with radiofrequency](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-radiofrequency), can also correct mild skin laxity. Of course, the treatment doesn’t address the muscle like surgery does, but it’s a way to gently resurface the superficial layers of skin and get some tightening with next to no pain or downtime. “These types of energy-based devices can be helpful when treating patients with jowls that drape over the jawline and obscure it,” Dr. Camp says.

Other noninvasive skin-tightening treatments that can tighten loose skin include [Ultherapy®](https://aedit.com/procedure/ultrasound-skin-tighteningultherapy) and Thermage®. In the former, Dr. Camp says ultrasound energy employed at specific depths tightens the skin by stimulating collagen production for a more well-defined jawline with sharper angles. “They can be helpful because they act by contracting collagen and then inducing new upregulation of growth factors associated with collagen remodeling and tightening,” Dr. Sadick explains. And then, of course, there’s the OG skin tightener, Thermage®, which providers still love for its collagen-stimulating capabilities — especially when used in conjunction with Ultherapy® to tighten the muscles along the jawline. 

## **7. Lift With Threads**
A popular procedure on social media, a [thread lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/thread-lift) uses dissolvable surgical threads that lift a saggy jawline back into place. Ideal for those who want maximum tightening and lift without going under the knife, threads can give a dramatic effect. “Threads also have mechanical and volumetric lifting capabilities and are usually implanted from the nasolabial or lower melolabial folds to the lateral face and ear zone, which gives a mechanical volumetric lifting to the jawline area,” Dr. Sadick shares.

With different types of threads available, doctors are able to customize the treatment. Dr. Emer, for instance, prefers Instalift threads to [PDO threads](https://aedit.com/procedure/pdo-thread-lift) because “they last longer, they help build collagen in the area, and they are steadier.” Dr. Halaas concurs. She uses [Silhouette Instalift](https://aedit.com/procedure/silhouette-instalift) on her patients who want an immediate lift with minimal downtime. “The PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) presents a well-studied, long-lasting, collagen-stimulating instantly and safely,” she says. “In addition, we can combine it with all of the other procedures to maximize the nonsurgical effect."

## **The Takeaway**
If you want a tighter and more sculpted jawline without surgery, there are not a lack of options. Regardless of the route you take, always consult with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon first to make sure you’re setting yourself up for success. Keep in mind that, in some cases, non-surgical methods work best in conjunction with other treatments. And remember: These treatments may not have as robust of an effect as surgery, but they are a worthy solution for certain patients all the same. 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Aesthetics

Tight, sculpted, defined, chiseled, snatched — whatever adjectives you choose to describe a perfectly taut jawline, you may be able to achieve it without succumbing to surgery.

The Best Non-Surgical Jawline Procedures To Tighten And Sculpt The Jaw

7 Ways To Define Your Jawline Without Going Under The Knife

robin-worrall-FPt10LXK0cg-unsplash

We spend a large amount of time thinking about a relatively small patch of skin — that is — our facial skin. And, despite all of the attention our visage receives, how much do we give to the skin right below it? With a year spent crouched over computer screens and staring at Zoom, perhaps it’s time to shift some of the focus to the area just south of the face (read: the neck). 

No matter how dedicated we are to taking care of our complexions, [the neck](https://aedit.com/concern/neck-and-jawline-definition) is often neglected. The delicate area below the jawline tends to be one of the first to show signs of aging (i.e. wrinkles, laxity, hyperpigmentation) thanks to a lack of sebaceous glands and that pesky little thing called gravity. As we age, collagen and elastin production also slow, which naturally leads to volume loss and sagging. 

Constantly craning over electronic devices, however, has led to a younger generation prematurely experiencing said symptoms. Enter: tech neck. ‘Tech neck’ refers to the “effects of our posture on our body due to technology,” explains [David Isaacs, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/david-isaacs-md-912), a board certified oculofacial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. Here, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about preventing and correcting it.

## **What Is Tech Neck?** 
We spend so much time with our eyes on our smartphones, tablets, and other devices. As such, we also spend so much time in what Dr. Isaacs calls “a chin to chest position.” Perhaps unsurprisingly, that unfortunate posture can “affect different areas of our body, including our neck, back, spine, and shoulders, as well as the cosmetic aging appearance of our face and neck,” he continues. From an aesthetic perspective, that often results in “a double chin, jowls, sagging skin, marionette lines, and other signs of aging,” Dr. Isaacs notes. 

But it’s not just about the impact of our physical positions when our faces are fixated on screens. These devices emit [blue light](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-your-phone-might-be-aging-you), and, as double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon [Lesley Rabach, MD](https://lmmedicalnyc.com/), explains, that exposure can lead to additional skin damage (think: hyperpigmentation and crepiness).

## **How to Treat Tech Neck**
It goes without saying that the best methods of tech neck prevention are to [wear sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-neck-creams-for-tech-neck-sagging-jowls) with blue light protection to spare the skin and to [be aware of your posture](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-improve-your-posture) when using your devices — or, even better — spend less time on them altogether. But, if the damage is already done, there are both [surgical and non-surgical treatment options](https://aedit.com/procedure/neck-and-jawline-definition-solutions) to address the skin laxity and uneven tone and texture concerns that accompany tech neck:

### **Non-Surgical Tech Neck Treatments**
If you are looking to minimize recovery and avoid going under the knife, “microneedling, fillers, and chemical peels have zero downtime,” Dr. Rabach says. In fact, “many people come during lunch break and go straight back to work,” she shares. It should be noted, however, that a series of treatments (usually spaced four to six weeks apart) are often needed to see results. 

1. **[Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella)**: This injectable treatment is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reduce submental fat. Over several sessions, deoxycholic acid breaks down stubborn fat deposits that cause the appearance of a double chin.
2. **[Fillers](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers)**: Not just for your face, fillers can be used for both short and long-term gain to volumize hollow areas, fill in fine lines and creases, and boost collagen.
3. **[Microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling)**: Performed alone or with extras like [platelet-rich plasma (PRP)](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp) microneedling can target the horizontal wrinkles (and neck in general) to improve skin texture concerns.
4. **[Chemical Peels](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels)**: Dealing with uneven skin tone or pigmentation as a result of blue light exposure? Dr. Rabach recommends chemical peels ([at varying strengths](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-superficial-medium-deep-chemical-peels)) to lighten, brighten, and resurface the area. 

### **Neck Lift for Tech Neck**
Yes, surgical procedures usually come with a bit more downtime, but they also usually provide more dramatic results. While these procedures do have a longer recovery period than their non-surgical counterparts, Dr. Rabach says many of her patients shorten that window by wearing a scarf to conceal the treatment area.

1. **Submental Liposuction**: Liposuction is another option for permanent fat reduction and neck contouring. Small incisions are made behind the ears and under the chin, with patients experiencing about a week of post-op [bruising](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-bruising-after-lasers-filler-botox) and [swelling](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-minimize-swelling-after-cosmetic-surgery).
2. **[Neck Lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/direct-neck-lift)**: The most comprehensive treatment of the bunch, a surgical neck lift can eliminate excess skin, tighten underlying muscles, and improve the appearance of banding. 

Surgeons have increasingly refined [neck lift techniques](https://aedit.com/aedition/mini-neck-lift-procedure-results-side-effects) to accomplish more with less invasiveness. Dr. Isaacs, for one, performs a minimally invasive modified neck lift with light sedation and without incisions around the ears or in the hairline. The procedure “addresses the vertical and horizontal neck bands, improves the jawline, improves the neckline, and addresses the fat underneath the platysma, a muscle in the neck,” he explains. It is ideal for patients who want more than what Kybella®, fillers, and lipo have to offer but aren’t ready for an entire neck lift. By focusing on the fat under the platysma (rather than above it), Dr. Isaacs says this procedure gives a better aesthetic result.

Constantly craning over electronic devices has led to people experiencing signs of aging on the neck at a younger and younger age. Here’s what you need to know about preventing and treating tech neck.

Tech Neck: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention

The Truth About Tech Neck — And How To Treat It

angelica-echeverry-5KY5LP zc44-unsplash

My grandmother always used to say that you can tell a person’s real age by taking a good look at their neck. One of the most delicate areas of the body, [the neck has thinner skin](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-neck-creams-for-tech-neck-sagging-jowls) than the rest of the body, causing the area to reveal signs of aging earlier and quicker than the face. These changes in skin quality, often visible in our early to mid-thirties, are notoriously difficult to reverse without surgical intervention in the form of a [neck lift](https://aedit.com/concern/neck-and-jawline-definition) … and all of its baggage, including a three to four month healing period. 

So, when a ‘mini’ neck lift started gaining traction in doctors’ offices, it sounded incredible: a mini solution to a maxi problem. It’s said to be less invasive with a shorter recovery and fewer risks, yet it yields similar results to its more serious sister. But things that sound too good to be true often are, and many plastic surgeons are calling the ‘mini’ neck lift a misnomer.

## **What Is a ‘Mini’ Neck Lift?**
“The shortest answer I can give you is there really is no such thing as a mini neck lift, per se,” says [Adam Kolker, MD](https://www.drkolker.com/), a New York City-based board certified plastic surgeon. “You will not go to a plastic surgery textbook of any kind and find the chapter on mini neck lifts. It does not exist.” But that’s not to say there aren’t procedural stepping stones on your way to a full blown neck lift. “On the flip side, you can now establish a hierarchy — or a treatment ladder — that will address one, several, or all of the issues,” he notes. 

Moving from the lowest rungs of a ladder (i.e. the suite of non-surgical options to reverse signs of aging in the neck), Dr. Kolker explains that each step signifies a more invasive solution until reaching the pinnacle: a full, [traditional neck lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/direct-neck-lift). “Rather than calling it a mini neck lift, there are minimal access points or minimally invasive corrections for neck laxity,” he offers. 

## **The Pros and Cons of a Mini Neck Lift**
Considering this [sliding scale of neck procedures](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-younger-looking-neck) that a mini neck lift could entail, we asked three renowned plastic surgeons to explain everything someone can expect with a ‘mini’ neck lift, from the goals to the limitations — and everything in between. 

### **1. It CAN’T be performed on everyone**
“With the neck in particular, you have to be very careful to do a complete history and physical examination,” says Dr. Kolker, who explains that the clinical examination will reveal key factors about a patient’s viability, including the elasticity or inelasticity of the skin, the amount of extra fat underneath the chin, and the visibility of the platysma muscle (i.e. the vertical band connecting the jaw to the collarbone that’s also visible when someone flexes their jaw). 

“It depends on the individual’s anatomy and desires and to choose the most minimally invasive approach that will satisfy their needs over the term they’re hoping to achieve the durability of the result,” he says. In some cases, the exam will reveal that an alternative procedure can satisfy their goals better. “Is everyone who is 40 to 45 years old with early signs of excess skin in the neck a candidate for a neck lift,” Dr. Kolker asks. “The answer is no — they don’t necessarily need to do that yet.”

### **2. The procedure CAN vary from patient to patient** 
“There’s kind of a spectrum of addressing the neck,” explains [Thuy-Van Tina Ho, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/thuyvan-ho-md-25248), a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who runs a private practice in Philadelphia. “It’s all about phrasing too, right? How I would define the mini neck lift could be very different than other surgeons out there.” 

For Dr. Ho, a mini neck lift is a “step down” from a neck lift. She defines it as a procedure where “less skin is elevated,” but the surgery specifics will vary from patient to patient. “One particular procedure never works for all people,” Dr. Kolker adds. “It’s got to be very uniquely tailored to the individual.” 

According to Dr. Ho, in a mini, the “muscle layer may not be addressed or a limited [platysmaplasty](https://aedit.com/procedure/platysmaplasty) may be pursued, just some simple suturing, but no major undermining,” in patients whose neck bands are showing some slack. A “limited SMAS suspension could be performed as well,” she says, depending upon the extent of sagging along the jawline. 

### **3. It CAN be effective for mild jowling and sagging skin**
Realistic expectations are crucial to any successful aesthetic surgery, and, with mini neck lifts in particular, all parties need to carefully align on what is a reasonable outcome. “You do achieve definitive results, but not as dramatic or drastic compared to a traditional neck lift,” Dr. Ho notes. “Patients who have mild neck issues and aging neck issues — like mild skin laxity or fullness in the chin or neck area or platysmal banding issues — could be a good candidate.”

But the procedure, however customizable, has its limits. “If someone has heavy or even moderate skin laxity, this isn’t the procedure for them,” she shares. “It’s not going to fix it.”

### **4. It CAN be done in tandem with other modalities** 
“None of these surgical procedures do anything for skin quality,” says NYC-based board certified plastic surgeon [Steven M. Levine, MD](https://www.stevenlevinemd.com/). But there are energy-based treatments that can support neck rejuvenation, particularly crepey-looking skin, which is notoriously difficult to neutralize. “I think there’s a role for general neck resurfacing and anything you can do to improve skin quality,” he says. [Fraxel®](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-fraxel-laser-skin-resurfacing-treatments), [fractional ablative laser](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-fractional-lasers), [radiofrequency microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-radiofrequency), and [chemical peels](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-superficial-medium-deep-chemical-peels) can all “improve skin quality,” he adds.

### **5. It CAN’T tighten or fix fine lines or wrinkles on the neck**
“The crepiness and fine lines in the neck are probably the hardest things to manage,” Dr. Kolker says. So, while you can improve tone on the neck with a mini lift, the lack of collagen and elastin in that area means you “can’t really tighten that area up that much, unless you move to the more surgical end of the spectrum,” he explains. Even at the most aggressive end of the mini neck lift spectrum — which typically involves traditional liposuction or a [liposuction with radiofrequency assisted lipectomy (RFAL)](https://aedit.com/procedure/radiofrequency-assisted-liposuction) — is “not going to tremendously improve the quality of the skin if you’ve got a significant amount of excess,” he cautions, because the sagging skin is not removed.

### **6. It CAN have unpredictable results**
There’s no such thing as a sure thing, especially in plastic surgery. That rings even truer when there is not one codified, board-approved definition of what a mini neck lift entails and, thus, no established optimal outcome. “For the average woman, we’re talking about a tiny incision underneath the skin with radiofrequency and suction-assisted lipectomy, which is going to give you a small improvement,” Dr. Kolker explains. “Sometimes the improvement is as small as 10 or 15 percent. Sometimes it’s as much as 30 or 40 percent.”

An ideal candidate for a “limited incision procedure” (Dr. Kolker’s preferred term for the more serious end of the mini neck lift spectrum) is someone with good skin elasticity. With only small incisions under the chin and without removing any excess skin, the procedure’s success is entirely reliant upon the skin’s ability to bounce back, meaning that outcomes and results will vary based on how well skin constricts and reshapes during recovery. For this reason, such procedures are “appropriate only for very, very mild excess,” he warns. 

### **7. It CAN’T correct significant neck sagging**
Not sure if a small incision neck lift is right for you? According to Dr. Levine, it’s quite simple to determine. “If you have a lot of loose skin and poor skin elasticity, then you need a procedure that will also remove and tighten loose skin, which is a more traditional neck lift,” he says.

Deep neck contouring may also be necessary. “It addresses deep fat, which is a very different kind of fat than regular liposuction,” he says. He describes deep neck contouring as a limited incision procedure to remove the fat and glands beneath the platysma muscle in order to “create extra space in the neck for the neck skin to contract over and give a more chiseled jawline.” This procedure can be performed independently as a smaller-scale neck procedure or added onto a full neck lift or facelift.

### **8. It CAN include a chin implant**
Surprisingly, a [chin implant](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-chin-augmentation-enhancement-procedures) is on the medical list of neck enhancement procedures. “Sometimes people have neck laxity because they have a diminutive or underprojected chin,” Dr. Kolker shares. In these cases, “some combination of either suction or radiofrequency with a small chin implant has a very powerful effect on the neck skin because you’re using an implant to tighten the skin of the neck up by pulling that neck skin forward without making bigger incisions,” he explains. At the same time, you can also address excess fat. “By changing the architecture of the neck, you’re also improving the appearance of the neck and the jawline for a more contoured look,” he says.

### **9. Patients CAN age out of eligibility**
According to Dr. Levine, the restrictions for the more invasive end of minimal incision neck lift procedures — like superficial liposuction and deep neck contouring — are tied to the more advanced signs of aging. “The limitations of these liposuction procedures are based on how elastic someone’s skin is because you’re relying on contraction and the skin’s contractility,” he says. “The more elastic the skin is, the better result you’ll get.” As such, he says it’s generally a “great option” for someone in their [thirties](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-cosmetic-procedures-plastic-surgery-to-consider-in-your-30s), [forties](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-cosmetic-procedures-plastic-surgery-to-consider-in-your-40s), and even [fifties](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-cosmetic-procedures-plastic-surgery-to-consider-in-your-50s-60s-70s). “Some people can have great elasticity in their sixties,” he says. “But, as you get older, you have to evaluate based on the specific patient.”

### **10. Results CAN’T offset the effects of an unhealthy lifestyle**
“Once you hit the [recovery room](https://aedit.com/aedition/preparing-for-a-smooth-recovery-from-plastic-surgery), the aging process resumes that moment,” Dr. Kolker notes. “If people are predisposed to change or if their lifestyle predisposes them, like sun exposure or [smoking](https://aedit.com/aedition/impact-of-cigarette-smoking-vaping-on-skin-hair-teeth-health), then obviously you’re going to see a little bit less durability than someone who [eats clean](https://aedit.com/aedition/meal-plans-diet-before-after-cosmetic-surgery), is fit, and takes care of their skin and weight.” At the end of the day, he says any elective surgery is a “small piece of the puzzle” and healthy lifestyle choices are “the most important to make the results last longer.”

### **11. You CAN’T expect zero side effects**
The term ‘mini’ is often thought to imply less downtime and invasiveness, but don’t let the word fool you. “I’ve even heard it called a ‘weekend procedure,’ which is wrong,” Dr. Ho cautions. “It’s still a surgery and the risks are similar, if not the same, as a traditional neck lift.” To heal properly and correctly, “you need to take it seriously,” she adds. 

Although each patient’s recovery will look a bit different, Dr. Ho says that it’s safe to expect [bruising and swelling](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-minimize-swelling-after-cosmetic-surgery) for the first few days post-op. In some cases, it can last for as long as two weeks. [Exercise](https://aedit.com/aedition/when-to-start-exercising-again-after-cosmetic-surgery-procedures) is also off limits for 14 days, and Dr. Ho gives her patients strict instructions for how and when to wear the post-op [compression garment](https://aedit.com/aedition/benefits-of-compression-garments-after-cosmetic-surgery). “These precautions are going to be the same, regardless of whether it’s a full or mini,” she says.

### **12. It CAN exacerbate other neck concerns**
A superficial liposuction — that is, the removal of fat that covers the platysma muscle bands — can successfully address a full-bodied neck in patients who are candidates, but it isn’t as simple as it sounds. “You have to be so careful with necks,” warns Dr. Levine, who recommends booking a neck procedure with a [board certified](https://aedit.com/aedition/medical-board-certification-in-plastic-surgery-cosmetic-dermatology) plastic surgeon who specializes in treating the face and neck. If superficial lipo isn’t carefully performed, there may be negative consequences down the road because “you’ve removed the layer of fat that camouflages the platysma muscle, and the visible bands are what people don’t like” he says. 

So, while you’ve addressed one concern, you may have exacerbated another. “As we age, we lose fat in the neck and the platysma becomes more obvious,” he notes. “You’ve improved the neck contour at the expense of making the neck bands more visible.” 

### **13. It CAN’T provide long-lasting results**
For neck procedures that remove fat via superficial liposuction, RFAL, or deep neck contouring, Dr. Kolker says a patient can expect the results to last somewhere in the neighborhood of five to 10 years, depending on lifestyle factors — though the removal of the fat cells is permanent. 

Dr. Ho adds that many of her patients seeking a mini neck lift are looking for a smaller-scale solution, not the dramatic improvement or neck contour of a traditional neck lift. As such, the results are “definitely not going to last as long” as a full neck lift because it requires less surgical intervention, she says.

Here are the possibilities, limitations, and misconceptions you should know before booking a ‘mini’ neck lift, according to top plastic surgeons.

Mini Neck Lift: Procedure, Ideal Candidate, Results, Side Effects

The Truth About ‘Mini’ Neck Lifts

candid-WFsNCIn8OF4-unsplash

There are a number of reasons why someone may look into [reshaping their jawline](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-more-defined-jawline) — for a more defined profile, stronger chin, or to correct an overbite — but what patients often don’t realize is that going under the knife (or needle!) isn’t the only way to do so. Cosmetic dentistry treatments, specifically, clear aligners like [Invisalign®](https://aedit.com/procedure/invisalign), can improve the alignment of the jawline for both functional and aesthetic benefits.

## __Clear Aligners for Jaw Correction__
We often think of [clear aligners](https://aedit.com/procedure/clear-aligners) as an alternative to [traditional metal braces](https://aedit.com/procedure/traditional-metal-braces) for patients who are looking to straighten out their smile, but the teeth alignment system can also be used to correct the shape of the chin and jaw. “As a dentist, I’m often concerned by jaw pain, soreness, and open or closed locking in the jaw,” says [Stacy Spizuoco, DDS](https://aedit.com/provider/stacy-spizuoco-29347), a New York City-based cosmetic dentist with Onsite Dental and clinical instructor at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. 

As we’ve discussed, [orthognathic surgery (a.k.a. jaw surgery)](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-get-and-recover-from-jaw-surgery) is a highly involved procedure that is often combined with several years of orthodontic treatments to correct pronounced underbites and overbites and improve facial symmetry. For patients with less severe alignment concerns, surgery can be avoided in favor of a clear alignment protocol, like Invisalign®, for jawline fixes.

Here are a few things to keep in mind about dentistry for jaw correction:

### **1. Orthodontics Can Correct Malocclusions**
Abnormal alignment of the upper and lower teeth (a.k.a. malocclusions) can cause jaw pain and unevenness. Clear aligners can correct a collapsed bite, cross bite, open bite, and even some minor jaw unevenness. 

### **2. Not Everyone Is a Good Candidate** 
“The ideal candidate for jaw correction procedures is someone who has one jaw that has developed the opposite way it should have,” Dr. Spizuoco explains. For example, patients may have a lower jaw that overlaps the upper jaw, when it should be the other way around. “Some people can live comfortably like that, but others will have constant pain and tooth issues,” she says.

### **3. Results Vary**
Much like traditional braces, clear aligner treatment protocols can take up to two years for full results, but most people need about 10 to 15 months of full-time wear to see the benefits. It’s worth noting that committing to a long-term aligner plan requires diligence. Check out the 15 things one of our writers wishes she knew [before starting Invisalign®](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-to-know-before-starting-invisalign).

### **4. Dentistry Is Part of Jaw Surgery Treatment Plans**
Advanced and severe jaw conditions will likely need to be corrected with surgery, but anyone getting [jaw surgery](https://aedit.com/procedure/orthognathic-surgery) will usually have some form of orthodontics before and/or after the procedure to ensure the proper alignment of the jaw.

### **5. Clear Aligners Aren’t The Only Non-Surgical Solution**
If aligners aren’t an option, Dr. Spizuoco recommends patients try a night guard “that can be worn to protect pressure on the teeth and jaws.” Another therapy gaining off-label popularity for easing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain? Botox®. “[It is used for] pain relief and to relax the muscles of the face,” she says. In addition to [treating TMJ disorders](https://aedit.com/aedition/botox-to-treat-tmj-disorders-and-jaw-slimming), injecting the neurotoxin into the masseter muscles also slims the jawline.

## **The Takeaway**
A misaligned upper or lower jaw can cause pain, discomfort, and aesthetic abnormalities. With or without surgery, clear aligners can be used to help reshape the jawline and stabilize the results of previous procedures. To better understand your treatment options, consult with your dentist. 

Cosmetic dental treatments can be used to improve the profile of your jaw and chin — sans surgery.

Cosmetic Dentistry, Clear Aligners To Correct And Define The Jaw

The Surprising Way Clear Aligners Can Define Your Jawline

shutterstock 244228729

When invited into the Sperling Dermatology’s new [Sperling Spectacular Spa](https://www.sperlingdermatology.com/body/) in Red Bank, NJ, I jumped at the chance to check it out, meet the staff, and try a non-invasive treatment. As a beauty editor who focuses on skincare and aesthetics, this place can easily become my new home ‘office.’ I met with board certified physician assistant [Christinna Del Genio, MS, PA-C](https://www.sperlingdermatology.com/about/about-office-staff/), who gave me a tour space before recommending I try [InMode’s Evoke](https://inmodemd.com/workstation/evoke/), one of their newest treatment offerings. The device uses radiofrequency (RF) heat technology to stimulate collagen and lift and tighten the skin around the cheeks, jawline, and jowls.  

Once I saw the before and after pictures, I was sold. The Evoke “workspace” comes with two offerings — Evoke Face and Evoke Neck. Both applicators are hands-free and employ RF energy to reshape facial tissue, but the former is specifically designed to treat [cheeks and jowls](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-procedures-to-define-cheekbones) while the latter addresses the [neck and submental areas](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-younger-looking-neck). We decided to focus on my [jawline](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-more-defined-jawline) since I’d love for that skin to be a bit tighter (I’m in my late thirties, after all), and I wasn’t a candidate for the neck portion. As Del Genio and her team set me up in a comfy chair for my first 30-minute treatment, I began taking notes and interviewing her about the technology.  

## **Evoke Technology**
“The goal of radiofrequency skin remodeling is to heat collagen at deep and superficial levels to 40 to 43 degrees Celsius,” Del Genio explains. “In doing so, the formation of new collagen begins and the skin tightening effect takes place.” Unlike other tightening devices that promise similar benefits, Evoke is hands-free and contains temperature monitoring and control. As a result, it has the ability to deliver uniform, controlled heat energy without being dependent on the technician. If the skin reaches a threshold level the radiofrequency energy, it’s temporarily suspended to protect the skin from discomfort and possible burn. Other devices have a hand-held applicator, which requires the person giving the treatment to continually move it around at a fast speed to prevent that from happening.  

### **Evoke Treatment & Protocol**
Thirty minutes flew by, and, as promised, it didn’t hurt at all. It was as if I was wearing warm Bose headphones that were positioned tightly on my cheeks. After each treatment my face *felt* tighter. I didn’t even have to touch it to feel the difference. I saw results after my first treatment, but I followed the protocol and continued to do a series of four sessions spaced about one week apart for the best results. While I noticed incremental changes throughout, final results will be visible eight weeks after my fourth treatment. Skin tightening results are supposed to last one year, with one yearly maintenance session encouraged thereafter.  

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4fmqyCx0dCYvafTtH93Is2/94bbaef19d6a6dd816c74d86180c2756/evoke-b_as-oct-15-800x300.png}>
  The writer's jawline before Evoke (left), immediately after her first treatment (middle), and immediately after her fourth treatment (right). The red marks on her cheeks are from the device and faded quickly. Her final result will be visible eight weeks after her last session.
</CaptionImg>

### **The Ideal Candidate for Evoke**
Anyone who experiences skin laxity in the lower face and neck can benefit from Evoke, but the treatment isn’t for everyone. Skip it if you…

- Have a pacemaker or defibrillator
- Have a history of cancer
- Are [pregnant or nursing](https://aedit.com/aedition/safety-of-cosmetic-procedures-during-pregnancy-breastfeeding)
- Have cardiac disorders, sensory disturbances, epilepsy, uncontrolled hypertension, and liver or kidney disease
- Have an impaired immune system due to AIDS or HIV

### **The Cost of Evoke**
I feel very fortunate that I have the opportunity to try these treatments for work at no cost because they are pricey. A series of four in one area (jawline or neck) will run you about $2,000. If you want to treat both areas, a series costs about $3,000. Pricing depends on the practitioner and where you get it done, but these prices are average.  

## **The Takeaway**
The lift is real! I am beyond impressed with my results week after week and am excited to have a more sculpted jawline — I never had one before! I’m anxious to see my full results eight weeks from now and am optimistically curious as to whether this is really going to last 12 months like it claims. Time will tell.

Patient Perspective

Skeptical but excited to try Evoke, one writer can honestly say her jawline has never been tighter.

Evoke Radiofrequency For Jawline And Neck Skin Tightening

This Skin Tightening Device Really Firmed My Jawline

eli-defaria-vCzh1jOyre8-unsplash

For many, orthodontic treatments that shift the teeth are enough to correct our bite. But, when orthodontia isn’t enough, corrective jaw surgery may be required. Formally known as [orthognathic surgery](https://aedit.com/procedure/orthognathic-surgery), the procedure is used to correct pronounced underbites and overbites and improve facial symmetry. “Orthognathic surgery is necessary when the teeth and jaws do not align properly,” explains [Douglas Monasebian, MD, DMD](https://aedit.com/provider/douglas-monasebian-md-200), a New York City-based board certified plastic and maxillofacial surgeon and assistant professor at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. “Very often, when this surgery is performed, the facial features will also come more into harmony adding to a more aesthetic appearance.”

Here, we break down everything you need to know about the surgery and talk to patients about their experience. 

## **What Does Jaw Surgery Involve?**
Jaw surgery is often part of a larger treatment plan that includes fixed-bracket braces, wisdom teeth removal, and more to correct an underbite or overbite. Surgery tends to be part of that teeth alignment process. “Orthodontic treatment (braces) is performed both before and after the surgery,” Dr. Monasebian says. “The length of time in braces can be between one to two years, with the surgery occurring usually at the halfway point.”

Depending on the patient's needs, orthognathic surgery can be performed on the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both. “The surgeries may be performed together or separately,” he explains. “The decision for this is determined by both the surgeon and the orthodontist. The evaluation includes clinical photographs, x-rays, and dental models.”

**The Anatomy of the Face & Jaw:**
![Skull Anatomy Illustration](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2WnajSncXBQqjqH2Li6W5o/a285588d5efdb02e25c71e3df181ea54/skull-anatomy-illustration.jpg)

Needless to say, there are surgical and anatomic differences between upper (maxillary) and lower (mandibular) jaw surgery, but both procedures are, as Dr. Monasebian shares, “quite involved” (think: four to six hours of operating) and performed under general anesthesia in the hospital. Another similarity? “All incisions are placed inside the mouth, so, after the swelling resolves, there is no visible scarring on the face,” he says.

During the surgery, the surgeon will cut into the bone and realign the bone, teeth, and soft tissue into their correct position. The bone is fixed in place using a combination of metal plates and screws, which are usually permanent. The screws should fuse into your jaw bone over time. In some cases, bone may be collected from another part of your body (i.e. the hips or ribs) to aid in that fusion process or to alter the shape of the jaw bone. In this case, patients have a small incision where that bone tissue is collected.

## **Recovering From Jaw Surgery**
Today, jaws are stabilized with small metal plates and screws, which means they do not have to be wired together for six weeks like they used to be. But recovery from jaw surgery still takes time, with patients generally needing to take several weeks off of work or school. While patients usually return home the day after surgery, it is recommended that they have a caretaker for the first couple of weeks. Pain, swelling, and discomfort are common — especially in the first seven to 10 days — and are treated with pain medication and antibiotics. 

Patients receive specific post-operative instructions that encompass the first couple of months  after surgery. They will vary depending on the provider and procedure, but your surgeon should provide specific information on what you can and can’t eat, oral hygiene, when to resume regular activity levels, and when to return to work or school.

“The surgical results are immediate in that the jaws are placed in their new and correct position at the time of surgery,” Dr. Monasebian says. “The final surgical result will become apparent when all the swelling resolves, which is mostly gone after several weeks.” The bones heal in approximately six weeks, at which point braces are applied. “There will be another year or more of braces to have the teeth align,” he adds.

## **Patient Perspective**
Recovery from jaw surgery takes time, but knowing what to expect can make the process much more manageable. We asked two patients to share their experience healing from orthognathic surgery.

### **Noah, 27, Chicago**
*Noah had jaw surgery to correct an underbite and improve his side profile. He spoke to us about what it’s  like to have the procedure and shared some of his tips to make recovery more comfortable.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What was the first week after surgery like?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Noah}>
    The first day after surgery, I was pretty out of it. My brother drove me home and made sure I was comfortable. My mom brushed my teeth for me and made sure I’d taken the medication and eaten as scheduled. The following two days were intense. It’s pretty unpleasant being in pain and not being able to open your mouth or breathe properly through your nose because of all the swelling, but it really was only like that for around four days at the most. Once I’d made it through that point, things got a little better each day.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How did the recovery process compare to your expectations?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Noah}>
    I’d done a whole lot of research beforehand, and the one thing that I hadn’t truly realized is that everyone’s recovery is different. It was similar to many of the experiences I had read about before the surgery, but it was not the same as any of them. I used a lot of the tips that I’d learned from other people, and they were absolutely valuable (definitely buy yourself a cat toothbrush, they’re smaller than regular toothbrushes and so much easier to use right after surgery!), but I do wish I hadn’t created such a fixed timeline in my mind from what I’d seen online. It’s difficult to cut yourself some slack and rest when you think that you should be able to do such and such a task by whichever day post-surgery it is.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you pleased with the results of the procedure?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Noah}>
    I am. During the first two weeks after surgery, I wondered if the results could possibly be worth all the pain and swelling, but they totally were. I was fortunate that surgery was pretty much the last step in my treatment plan after long years of braces and wisdom teeth being removed, so it’s been amazing to finally get to see my face in the shape my doctors had planned for me all along. The shift in my confidence has shocked me. Pre-COVID, I had found myself having a better social life than I’d ever had before because I’m so much more confident in how I look.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Jeanie, 30, Los Angeles**
*Jeanie chose to undergo jaw surgery to change the look of her side profile, which was affected by a severe underbite. She had the surgery two years ago after undergoing orthodontic treatment for a year beforehand.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you have any tips on how to prepare for recovery from jaw surgery?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jeanie}>
    First and foremost, get yourself a good network of people to help look after you in the first week after the procedure and to just be there when needed for the weeks following that. I would also advise printing out your recovery ‘schedule’ (i.e. when you should be starting to eat soft foods, do more activity, etc.), so you and the people taking care of you know what’s what. Having a pill organizer with days of the week and times was very useful to help me to keep track of when I had taken my painkillers also.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Did you buy anything to make recovery more comfortable?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jeanie}>
    I got this laptop desk that sat on my bed so I could watch Netflix without having to move, it was amazing (I may or may not still use it now!). I also got some nice new pillows and some cozy bedding, which I really appreciated — especially in those first few days. My surgeon also advised me that those squeezy sauce bottles are good to help you eat liquids, and they were useful too.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What advice do you have for people considering jaw surgery?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jeanie}>
    Get a good schedule set up for your recovery. Having ‘scheduled rest’ helped me so much. I know for sure I would have felt so bad about just laying around letting my body heal itself if it hadn’t been part of my care plan. Beyond that, it helped me to make sure I was getting enough fluids, taking all the drugs I needed to, keep on track with my eating. All those things just felt easier with them being planned out, instead of having to think about them on a daily basis.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **The Takeaway**
Performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) or plastic and reconstructive surgeon, orthognathic surgery can be a life-changing procedure to align the mouth, optimize facial proportion, and improve quality of life.

When orthodontia isn’t enough to correct bite and jaw concerns, orthognathic surgery may be needed. Here’s what you need to know.

What It's Like To Get And Recover From Jaw Surgery For Underbite, Overbite

What It’s Really Like To Get Jaw Surgery

shutterstock 1343389958 (1)

We all know that [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-facial) (onabotulinumtoxinA) can be used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also do so much more. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of Botox® to temporarily improve the appearance of frown lines between the eyebrows, forehead lines, and crow's feet, there are an array of 'off-label' uses as well. One such case gaining popularity? Using Botox® to treat temporomandibular joint disorder (a.k.a. TMJD or TMD) and, in the process, slim the jawline.

## **What Is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?**
The temporomandibular joint (colloquially known as TMJ) connects the mandible (i.e. lower jaw) to the temporal bone (i.e. skull). It is present on both sides of the face and facilitates the opening and closing of the mouth, which, in turn, allows for speaking and eating.

**The Anatomy of the Face & Jaw:**
![Skull Anatomy Illustration](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2WnajSncXBQqjqH2Li6W5o/a285588d5efdb02e25c71e3df181ea54/skull-anatomy-illustration.jpg)

Temporomandibular joint disorder refers to a group of conditions that cause pain and discomfort around the jawline and neck. It can be triggered by a variety of things, including regular teeth grinding or jaw clenching  (especially at night), arthritis, erosion of the joint, or structural problems. In addition to jaw pain, symptoms include jaw stiffness, tension headaches, limited jaw mobility, lockjaw, clicking or popping, and a change in teeth bite.

While there is no universal standard for diagnosing TMJD, the [National Institute of Health](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmj/more-info) (NIH) estimates that over 10 million people in America are affected by TMD and most of them are women. Board certified plastic surgeon [Jonathan Cabin, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jonathan-cabin-md-956), treats an increasing number of TMJD patients at his Beverly Hills practice and attributes the rise to three key factors:

1. **Increased Prevalence of TMJD**: We live in a stressful world and a lot of people “express” this stress while subconscious and sleeping through jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which, in turn, has led to an increase in cases.
2. **Increased Recognition and Diagnosis of TMJD**: For a long time, TMJD was an under-diagnosed condition mostly because the symptoms associated with it were mistaken for other disorders, like ear infections or migraine headaches. Now that providers can more properly diagnose TMJD, more people are aware they are suffering from it.
3. **Increased Awareness of Treatment Options**: The internet and social media have led to a hyper-educated patient population who is now more likely to hear about TMJ treatment.  

Dr. Cabin treats patients of all ages for TMD, but he reports that patients are diagnosed with the condition for different reasons at different ages. While most younger patients experience TMJD as a result of stress, older patients tend to have TMJD that is associated with dental issues.

## **How to Treat TMJ**

1. Over-the-Counter Pain Medication (think: ibuprofen)  
2. Bite Guards and Stabilization Splints to prevent clenching and grinding 
3. Ice packs to reduce swelling
4. Stress Management 
5. Botox®

The NIH recommends over-the-counter pain medication or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (think: ibuprofen) to manage the pain associated with TMD. Additionally, bite guards and stabilization splints can be worn overnight to help provide relief for patients who are prone to clenching and grinding, and, in terms of day-to-day behavior, TMJD sufferers are generally encouraged to avoid hard foods and gum, apply cold packs to reduce swelling, stretch the mouth and jaw regularly, and practice stress management.

<PullQuote attributedTo={Jonathan Cabin, MD}>
  “When injected into the masseter muscles, Botox® reduces the strength of these muscles to the point where grinding and clenching can’t generate the same level of force, and thus, can’t generate the same level of damage,”
</PullQuote>

Gaining popularity in the treatment and management of TMJD is the use of Botox® to relax the masseter facial muscle, which sits at the back of the mouth and plays a major role in chewing food and, yes, clenching and grinding teeth.

“The main muscle involved in the clenching and grinding force is the paired masseter muscle, which sits toward the back of the mouth on either side of the jaw. It can be seen bulging in and out of the lower face while chewing,” Dr. Cabin explains. “Believe it or not, these muscles are the strongest in the entire human body per unit weight, and this type of force likely evolved given our needs as hunter-gatherers to eat uncooked and, thus, unsoftened foods. But in our modern society, we only need a fraction of this strength to properly chew our food.”

Injecting a neurotoxin like Botox® into the masseter muscle can help counteract the force of the chewing, clenching, and grinding action that leads to damage and inflammation of both the teeth and jaw. “When injected into the masseter muscles, Botox® reduces the strength of these muscles to the point where grinding and clenching can’t generate the same level of force, and thus, can’t generate the same level of damage,” Dr. Cabin says. “With the right amount of Botox® injected with skill, the ability to chew normally — which requires a lot less force than our muscles are otherwise capable of — is not impacted at all.”

## **Is Botox® for TMJ Disorders Effective?**
First things first, let’s talk about safety. It’s important to note that the injection of Botox® into the masseter muscles is off-label (read: not FDA approved). While it is widely considered by the medical community to be both safe and effective for short-term use, a [2017 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5466904/) found that repeated Botox® injections into the masseter muscle decreased muscle thickness and bone volume in the mandibular gonial angle area (a.k.a. the jawline). Because findings about the long-term safety and efficacy of the treatment are inconsistent, the [NIH provided a grant](http://www.tmj.org/site/page?pageId=296) for further research about the risks and benefits of masseter Botox®. 

One thing is clear: Patients have reported improvements in their TMJ pain after Botox® treatments. Like most Botox® injections, this procedure is quick and requires minimal downtime. Typically, TMJD treatment includes four injections on each side of the jaw muscle, for a total of eight injections. Although the injections are deeper than other cosmetic uses, the process is relatively painless. Dr. Cabin recommends using the smallest needles possible in combination with a vibrational device against the skin to minimize discomfort.

“After carefully reviewing the procedure and any potential side effects, I have my patients use an ice roller over the intended injection areas for a few minutes to help to reduce discomfort and any chance of bruising,” he explains. “I then ask my patients to clench down, which activates the masseter muscles and allows me to outline them carefully with a skin pencil. This is for precision and to ensure symmetry between the two sides.”

The most common side effect following masseter Botox® is discomfort in the muscle — particularly when activating the muscle while chewing food or talking — for the first 24 hours after treatment. Dr. Cabins explains just like a vaccination in the arm muscle can leave the area feeling achy for the first day or so, an injection into the masseter muscle is no different. 

Depending on the strength of the masseter muscle and the amount of neurotoxin required, some patients may experience temporary changes in their ability to chew. “Patients with particularly strong and/or large muscles may require a greater amount of Botox®. In these patients, there is sometimes a transient reduction in the ability to chew tough foods, like steak, which generally lasts only a few weeks,” Dr. Cabin says. “Rarely, a patient with normal amounts of Botox® will report this side effect, as well.”

## **How Long Does Botox® for TMJD Last?**

- **Downtime**: 24 hours of injection site and/or muscle pain
- **Initial Results**: Within 2 weeks
- **Peak Results**: Within 4 to 6 weeks
- **Lasts**: 3 to 5 months 

Like all Botox® injections, the results of TMJD treatment are not immediate. For masseter injections, it typically takes a minimum of two weeks to see changes to both pain levels and jaw shape. Dr. Cabin says that relief usually increases over the course of the first month and peaks at about four to six weeks post-treatment. At the same time, patients will also notice a cosmetic difference in their face and experience jaw narrowing and slimming.

Depending on the patient, results can last anywhere from three to five months. As the Botox® begins to wear off and the masseter muscle expands, patients will notice a reversal in facial structure and TMJD symptoms. To sustain a slimmer jawline and keep TMD discomfort to a minimum, patients can schedule additional treatment before the Botox® fully wears off. Once a patient has a good sense of how long it lasts for them, they can go in for routine re-injections.

## **The Takeaway**
While the long term ramifications of Botox® injections into the masseter muscles remains inconclusive, its effectiveness as a treatment for TMJD and jaw slimming is not. Just a few injections of the neurotoxin into the masseter muscle can help to relieve TMD symptoms and refine the size and shape of the jaw. The quick and (relatively) painless procedure lasts up to six months and costs anywhere from $450 to $1,500, depending on the practitioner. And, as with any procedure, be sure to find a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist who specializes in the technique.

Now Trending

While Botox® is FDA-approved to treat frown lines, forehead lines, and crow's feet, there are an array of 'off-label' uses as well. One such case gaining popularity? Using Botox® to treat temporomandibular joint disorder and, in turn, slim the jawline.

A Guide to Botox For TMJ Disorders And Jaw Slimming

Why Botox For TMJ Disorders And Jaw Slimming Is On The Rise

Better Jawline

You first noticed it in your vacation photos. In otherwise beautiful snapshots of your family on the beach, all you could focus on was the fullness around your neck. There is no doubt about it; you have a double chin. Unfortunately, excess fat accumulation, weakened facial muscles, and [loose skin below the jawline](https://aedit.com/procedure/jawline-slimming-with-botox) are all part of the natural aging process.

“We have a layer of thick connective tissue called platysma which acts almost like saran wrap holding everything in place,” says [Julie Russak, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/julie-russak-md-4645), a board certified dermatologist and founder of the Russak Dermatology Clinic in New York City. “As we lose collagen in the platysma, everything starts to sag by the power of gravity. The fat pads that remain push down on the platysma causing fullness and loss of definition.”

For some, a double chin is unavoidable at a young age due to genetic factors. And, excess tissue below the jawline can remain even after weight loss. “For those who work out and even lose weight, the frustration due to the appearance of fat is misconstrued,” says Dr. Russak. “Skin elasticity loss and skin looseness are what give the appearance of fat below the chin.” For these individuals, “tightening the skin is really the answer to a more defined jawline.”

Whether you recently noticed fullness in your neck or you have always wanted a more attractive jawline, you do not have to live with a double chin forever. There are many [skin-tightening](https://aedit.com/procedure/infrared-skin-tightening) and fat reduction treatments available to help sculpt your neck and create the youthful, chiseled jawline you desire. Here are eight ways to get a more defined jawline from non-invasive treatments to surgical procedures.

## __**1. Kybella®**__
[Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella) is a non-invasive treatment for reducing fat beneath the chin. Each treatment lasts between 15 and 20 minutes and involves a series of quick injections. The active ingredient in Kybella® is synthetic deoxycholic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps break down fat tissue.

When the synthetic deoxycholic acid is injected into the fat beneath the skin, it immediately starts working to destroy fat cells. Once destroyed, the cells can no longer store fat. The result is a noticeable reduction in fullness below the chin and a more defined jawline.

The number of injections required depends on the individual, though a majority of Kybella® patients require three to six treatments for the best results. In clinical studies, 79 percent of Kybella® subjects were satisfied with the appearance of the area beneath their chin 12 weeks after their final treatment. The fat reduction results of Kybella® are permanent.

## __**2. CoolMini™**__
If you struggle with stubborn fat below your chin despite eating healthy and exercising, you can now treat the area with CoolMini™. The CoolMini™ procedure is similar to its predecessor, [CoolSculpting](https://aedit.com/procedure/cool-sculpting), which uses vacuum suction and controlled cooling to freeze targeted fat and sculpt a more defined jawline.

To begin, your provider will place the small, curved applicator to the area below your chin. Two cooling plates on the CoolMini™ applicator cool the skin and safely freeze the underlying fat cells without damaging the surrounding tissue.

Over the next few weeks, your body will naturally eliminate the destroyed fat cells to reveal a sculpted, defined jawline. Most individuals see a noticeable reduction in fullness and a more chiseled jawline after one CoolMini™ treatment. However, the final results become apparent after three to four months. As with Kybella®, the results of CoolMini™ are long-lasting. “We are permanently killing fat cells we do not reproduce,” says Dr. Russak.

## __**3. Sculptra®**__
There are several reasons why loose skin develops along the jawline. Age, genetics, sun exposure, gravity, and weight loss all contribute to the appearance of a double chin or “turkey neck". Sculptra® is one of several dermal fillers that can help reduce the appearance of sagging skin below the jawline by rebuilding lost volume in the face.

While most facial fillers use hyaluronic acid to temporarily fill in sunken areas of the face, Sculptra® gets to the root of the problem. It uses poly-L-lactic acid, which works with your body to help rebuild lost collagen for a more youthful look. When Sculptra® is injected on top of the jawline, collagen production is stimulated in the cheeks, which subtly lifts the skin in the lower face. Clinical trials show the results of Sculptra® can last up to two years.

Patients with mildly loose skin in the lower face are the best candidates for Sculptra®. Those with severe sagging below the jawline due to aging or major weight loss will see optimal results with neck lift surgery.

## __**4. ThermiTight®**__
ThermiTight® is a minimally invasive alternative to a facelift or a neck lift surgery. It uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deep tissues of the lower face and neck, resulting in tighter skin and a more defined jawline.

During a ThermiTight® application, your provider will inject an anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Then, a tiny probe will be inserted under the skin to deliver heat directly to the tissue. As the radiofrequency energy is applied, it will melt fat cells on contact and cause controlled damage to the skin. This triggers your body to begin making new collagen, which, over time, tightens the skin in the neck for a more youthful, sculpted look.

Most ThermiTight® patients see results 30 days after the procedure, but the full effects of the treatment are apparent after three months. Best of all, ThermiTight® only requires one treatment. ThermiTight® is often used with the CoolMini™ procedure to reduce excess fat and tighten the skin on the neck without surgery.

## __**5. PDO Thread Lift**__
A [PDO Thread Lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/pdo-thread-lift) is another minimally invasive treatment for those embarrassed by a double chin and/or sagging skin. The treatment uses tiny threads made of Polydioxanone (PDO) to instantly lift the skin and create a defined jawline while promoting cellular renewal.

The procedure is performed by inserting the PDO threads through blunt-tipped needles beneath the surface of the skin. Once placed, the threads lift the skin of the lower face upwards and the excess threads are cut off. Prior to the procedure, your provider will numb your skin and apply local anesthetic to make the treatment as comfortable as possible.

After six months your body will naturally absorb the PDO threads. This is when the lift is at its peak due to new collagen growth around the threads. The results of a PDO Thread Lift can last between two and three years.

## __**6. [Buccal Fat Pad Reduction](https://aedit.com/procedure/buccal-fat-removal)**__
A buccal fat pad reduction removes fat in the cheeks to contour the lower face. “We make a little incision inside the mouth and pull out some of the fat in the lower cheek that gives the appearance of jowls,” says [Jason Emer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), a board certified dermatologic surgeon in West Hollywood. “With one stitch we close it up. It only takes 20 minutes in our office. There is no anesthesia and minimal downtime.” Dr. Emer commonly performs this procedure on models to give them a hollow, chiseled look in the lower face. “Even though there is a small incision, it is considered very non-invasive,” Dr. Emer explains.

## __**7. Liposuction**__
If you feel like you have excess fat below your chin despite being a healthy weight, [liposuction](https://aedit.com/procedure/laser-assisted-liposuction) can offer incredible results. It is important to know that liposuction alone may not improve sagging skin. Therefore, the procedure is best suited to younger patients with good skin elasticity.

Liposuction is an invasive, though fairly straightforward procedure and can often be performed under local anesthesia. To perform the procedure, your provider will make one or two tiny incisions beneath the chin or behind the ears where a small cannula will be inserted. Your doctor will create small motions with the cannula to suction excess fat from below the chin and sculpt a defined jawline. “Now the liposuction we do is more than just removal of the fat,” says Dr. Emer. “We are internally heating the skin at the same time to promote tightening.”

After liposuction, you will be instructed to wear a chinstrap for three to four days. Most patients can return to work within a week and resume their normal activities after two weeks.

## __**8. Neck Lift Surgery**__
[Neck lift surgery](https://aedit.com/procedure/direct-neck-lift) is the most invasive solution for treating sagging skin below the jawline. The term encompasses two procedures: cervicoplasty, which is the removal of excess skin, and platysmaplasty, which involves tightening the neck muscles. Surgeons can perform one or both of these procedures to restore a smooth, firm neck and defined jawline.

While invasive, neck lift surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Your doctor will use general anesthesia or intravenous IV sedation before making a small incision behind each ear and underneath the chin. Through these incisions, the surgeon will smooth wrinkles and creases in the neck, tighten the neck muscles, and remove excess skin.

Bruising and swelling are typical following neck lift surgery, but most patients are back to their normal routines within two weeks. Neck lift surgery is often performed along with liposuction to remove excess fat and skin from the neck and sculpt a firm, youthful appearance.

## **What About Facial Exercises? Do They Actually Work?**

According to Dr.Emer, facial exercises might have detrimental effects on the skin’s elasticity and jawline instead of beneficial ones. You might’ve heard that performing facial exercises or chewing gum can sculpt a more chiseled jawline but there doesn’t seem to be much truth to this sentiment. Dr.Emer explains that “all facial exercises do is potentially make the skin looser and make it look like you have a more muscular jawline, which can make you look bulky.”

If you want to try facial exercises –that won't affect your skin's elasticity – before considering the treatment options above, here are a couple to get you started.

__- **Tongue Twister**:__ The tongue twister targets the muscles under your chin. Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth just behind your front teeth. Then press your entire tongue against the top of your mouth to create tension. Hum and make a vibrating noise to activate the muscles in your neck and lower jaw; complete three sets of 15.

__- **Neck Curl-Ups**:__ Another facial exercise you can try to create a more chiseled jawline is a neck curl-up. Lying on your back, press your tongue to the roof of your mouth to activate your neck muscles. Then bring your chin to your chest and lift your head off the ground slightly; complete three sets of 10 repetitions. This facial exercise will strengthen and tone the muscles of the neck, which can help prevent drooping.


If you feel any pain performing facial exercises stop right away, as improper form may result in injury.

You do not have to live with a double chin forever. If you are embarrassed by a double chin or sagging skin around your neck, there are many treatment options available for restoring a smooth, firm, defined jawline. “I always tell my patients that the most natural results are achieved by a combination of procedures, and not just by one,” says Dr. Russak. “Paying special attention early on and what you do at home is equally as important to prevent and then effectively treat a double chin.” Establish a skincare routine, consider the non-invasive and surgical options above, and talk to your doctor about the right solution for you.