Jowl Lift London | 20 April 2025
As we age, one of the most noticeable signs of facial ageing appears along the jawline and lower face. Skin begins to lose its elasticity, soft tissues descend, and the once-sharp jawline starts to blur under the weight of sagging jowls.
For many of our patients at the Jonathan Britto Clinic, these changes don’t align with how they feel inside. A jowl lift, also referred to as a lower facelift, offers a tailored, surgical solution to restore definition, balance, and youthfulness to the lower third of the face.
In this blog, we explain what to expect from a jowl lift, from candidacy and the procedure itself to recovery and long-term results—so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
What Is a Jowl Lift?
A jowl lift is a surgical procedure that targets skin laxity and volume descent in the lower face, particularly along the jawline, jowls, and upper neck. The procedure carefully removes excess skin, repositions deeper tissues, and redefines the jawline for a more youthful, natural contour.
In clinical terms, a jowl lift takes place in layer 3 of the face —addressing not just the surface skin, but also the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS), the foundational layer that contributes to sagging. By lifting and repositioning the SMAS layer, the procedure creates long-lasting and elegant results without the “pulled” appearance sometimes associated with outdated facelift techniques.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
At the Jonathan Britto Clinic, each jowl lift is customised to the patient’s anatomy, ageing pattern, and aesthetic goals. Here’s what typically happens:
– Incisions are placed discreetly around the ears, and sometimes extend behind the hairline for added lift.
– The SMAS layer is carefully lifted and repositioned, not simply pulled, allowing for tension-free and natural-looking elevation.
– Excess skin is trimmed, and the incisions are closed with meticulous technique to minimise visible scarring.
– In many cases, adjacent areas like the neck or marionette lines are also addressed for harmony.
Thanks to our refined, anatomical approach, the results speak for themselves: refined jawlines, softened jowls, and rejuvenated lower face profiles.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Jowl Lift?
You may be a suitable candidate for a jowl lift if:
– You notice sagging or fullness along your jawline
– Your lower face lacks definition or contour
– You’re bothered by marionette lines
– You’re in good general health and a non-smoker
– You have realistic expectations and are committed to recovery
Ideal candidates are typically aged 35 – 65 but age is only one factor. At the Jonathan Britto Clinic, we offer a detailed consultation to assess your skin elasticity, bone structure, and overall facial balance, ensuring the procedure matches your goals.
What’s the Recovery Like?
Recovery from a lower facelift or jowl lift is relatively straightforward, though proper care and time are essential for the best outcome.
The first few days:
Expect swelling, tightness, and mild bruising
Pain is minimal and well-managed with oral medication
Keep the head elevated and avoid bending or lifting
Week 1–2:
Most patients return to light activity within 7–10 days
Sutures are removed within the first week
Bruising begins to fade and swelling reduces gradually
Week 3 and beyond:
You may return to more active routines after three weeks
Final results begin to emerge by 6–12 weeks
Scars continue to mature over several months, becoming barely perceptible
We provide comprehensive aftercare with follow-ups to monitor healing, guide scar care, and support your return to normal life.
How Long Do the Results Last?
The results of a jowl lift are long-lasting, especially when the deeper layers of the face are treated. On average:
– SMAS facelift results last 7- 10 years, depending on skin quality and lifestyle
– Good skin care, sun protection, and maintaining a stable weight can prolong your results
– The procedure will not stop the natural ageing process but will reset the clock significantly
Will There Be Scarring?
Scar placement and concealment are critical components of facial surgery. Our jowl lifts are designed with incisions hidden around the ears, within natural skin folds or the hairline. With proper care, scars are barely visible after healing.
At the Jonathan Britto Clinic, we see the jowl lift not just as a surgical procedure, but as a way to restore facial structure, refine self-image, and enhance confidence. By targeting the lower face – one of the first areas to show age – a jowl lift can provide:
– Striking definition to the jawline
– Softening of sagging tissues
– Improved balance and proportion to the face
If you’re considering a jowl lift in London or Essex, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Mr. Jonathan Britto. With decades of experience and a patient-first approach, we’ll work together to create results that are not just visible – but truly transformative.
