Facial ageing is not limited to fine lines around the eyes or mouth. Over time, changes in the skin, soft tissues and facial contours can alter the way the cheeks, jawline and neck look together. 

Some people may notice that their cheeks appear less full, the lower face looks softer or the boundary between the chin and neck becomes less defined.

These changes can occur at different rates and are influenced by factors including genetics, skin type, sun exposure, lifestyle and the natural ageing process. 

How Ageing Can Affect the Cheeks

The cheeks can change considerably as the face ages. Changes in soft tissue volume and the position of facial tissues can affect the transition between the cheek, midface and lower face.

Some common changes may include:

• A gradual loss or redistribution of facial volume
• Changes in the position of the cheek tissues
• More noticeable folds around the nose and mouth
• A softer transition between the cheek and lower face
• Increased visibility of loose skin as tissue support changes

These changes do not necessarily happen at the same time or to the same degree in everyone. A person may notice changes in the cheeks before seeing significant changes around the neck, while another may become more concerned about the lower face first.

This is one reason why facial surgery needs to be considered in the context of the whole face rather than focusing on one feature in isolation.

For people interested in other facial procedures, MOT Plastic Surgery also provides information about chin surgery, which can be considered when the position or proportions of the chin contribute to overall facial balance.

Why the Jawline Can Become Less Defined

The jawline is influenced by the skin, underlying soft tissues, facial structure and the area beneath the chin. As the face ages, changes in these structures can make the lower face appear less sharply defined.

One noticeable change can be the development of sagging skin along the lower cheek and jaw. As tissues shift and skin loses some of its elasticity, the contour that once ran clearly from the chin towards the ear may become less distinct.

The appearance of the jawline can also be affected by changes beneath the chin. For some people, excess skin, soft tissue changes or neck muscle bands can contribute to a less defined transition between the lower face and neck.

What Happens to the Neck as the Face Ages?

The neck is closely connected to the appearance of the lower face. Changes in skin elasticity, soft tissue and the platysma muscle can affect the contour beneath the chin and along the neck.

Some people may notice:

• Loose skin beneath the chin
• Visible neck bands
• A less distinct angle between the chin and neck
• Changes in the appearance of the lower face when viewed from the side
• Skin that no longer sits as closely against the underlying structures

These changes can make the jawline appear less defined even when the primary concern seems to be the neck.

How Facelift Surgery Relates to the Jawline, Cheeks and Neck

A facelift is not simply about removing loose skin. Facial ageing involves several structures, so the surgical approach needs to take the relationship between the cheeks, lower face and neck into account.

Facelift surgery may involve lifting and tightening the skin and underlying tissues of the face and neck. The specific approach depends on factors such as facial anatomy, skin characteristics, the areas being addressed and the person’s individual circumstances.

Dr Maryam Seyedabadi is a specialist registered plastic surgeon who provides facial plastic surgery at MOT Plastic Surgery in Paddington, Sydney. Her facelift training includes deep plane and other techniques.

It is also important to understand that a facelift does not stop the natural ageing process. Individual results vary, and all surgery carries risks. A discussion with a specialist plastic surgeon can help determine whether surgery is appropriate and what it may involve.

If you are considering facial surgery in Sydney, you can learn more about facial procedures at MOT Plastic Surgery before discussing your concerns with Dr Maryam.

Considering Facial Surgery in Paddington, Sydney?

Changes to the cheeks, jawline and neck can occur gradually, making it difficult to determine which area is responsible for a change in facial appearance. An assessment can help identify the structures involved and whether a facelift, neck procedure or another approach may be appropriate.

Dr Maryam Seyedabadi consults with patients at MOT Plastic Surgery in Paddington, Sydney. If you would like to discuss whether facial surgery may be appropriate for you, you can contact MOT Plastic Surgery on 1300 067 668. 

Individual results vary, and all surgical procedures carry risks. A consultation with a specialist plastic surgeon is important before deciding whether surgery is suitable for you.