Jowls
As we gracefully age, the prominence of jowls can become a common concern for both women and men. Many individuals consider invasive facial surgeries such as a facelift, to address this issue.
At Bella Plastic Surgery, our mission is simple: we aim to offer less invasive, non-surgical treatment alternatives that deliver a natural aesthetic result.
WHAT CAUSES JOWLS?
Jowls typically occur as a result of several factors:
- Aging: As we age, our skin loses elasticity and collagen which results in laxed and sagging skin and tissue.
- Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to more rapid aging skin which includes the loss of facial fat, resulting in a loss of volume and definition in the mid-lower face, exacerbating the appearance of jowls.
- Sun Exposure: Excess amount of sun exposure can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, causing premature aging, and the formation of jowls.
- Poor Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, lack of medical grade skin and poor nutrient can contribute to premature aging.
JOWL TREATMENT
We use a range of non-surgical treatments to tighten the skin and contour the lower face region.
The most immediate results can be seen when we administer volumising product in front of, and around the jowls, to ‘conceal’ the jowls. These products provide instant results, without the need for surgical intervention.
The products used in the jowl treatment vary, containing different consistencies which are often broken down into three main categories:
- Thin products – designed to last 3-6 months
- Mid-range products – designed to last 9-12 months
- Semi-permanent products – designed to last 18-24 months
These products are made from complex sugar molecules that naturally occur in your body and bind with water to support your skin and increase volume.
At Bella Plastic Surgery, we use only the highest quality products to achieve long-lasting results.
HOW LONG DOES THE TREATMENT TAKE?
The treatment time can vary however, the treatment generally takes one and a half hours. Please include an additional 60 minutes to pre-numb the area prior to treatment.
DOES IT HURT?
Before your jowl treatment, topical anaesthetic cream will be applied to alleviate discomfort. In addition, the product contains local anaesthetic which will help numb the treated area, providing even more added comfort throughout your treatment.
RECOVERY TIME
Following the procedure, there is usually some transient redness and swelling, which will dissipate with a week or so following treatment. Depending on the skin sensitivity of the patient, there may also be some bruising, which usually takes a week or two to clear. Makeup can be worn after 24 hours post-treatment, and we will recommend the best types of makeup to use.
POTENTIAL RISKS
Every non-surgical procedure involves a certain amount of risk, and it is important that you understand these risks and the possible complications associated. The majority of patients do not experience the following, but you should discuss each possible risk with your physician to ensure that you understand the risks and can make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
Common side effects may occur immediately or maybe delayed and include but are not limited to the following:
- Bruising
- Bleeding/Haematoma
- Inflammatory Reactions (swelling, Skin redness)
- Itchiness
- Tenderness
- Paraesthesia/Numbness
Other adverse reactions may include:
- Induration or nodules
- Skin Discoloration
- Weak filling effect
- Infections including abscesses, granuloma, hypersensitivity
Extremely rare but serious adverse events associated with intravascular injection of products have been reported and include temporary and permanent visual impairment, blindness, cerebral ischemia or cerebral haemorrhage, leading to stroke, skin necrosis, and damage to underlying structures.
POST-PROCEDURE CARE
The following are very common side effects after treatment and should resolve with time.
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Redness
- Puncture Marks
- Asymmetry
- Tenderness
- Hardness
- Tightness
- Itching
To prevent and/or help minimise any bruising after your treatment:
- Application of a cold compress to the treatment area immediately and for at least 15minutes after.
- The regular intermittent application of cold packs during the first 24-48 hours may be beneficial. A cycle to consider is 10min on and 5min off.
- Sleep with the head elevated for the first evening.
- Vigorous exercise can increase blood pressure and aggravate any bruising that is developing – therefore, exercise should be avoided for the first 24 hours.
- You should avoid extreme heat for the first 24hrs (or until bruising has resolved).
- Topical creams that may help with bruising – reduction in the development and helping in the resolution.
- Arnica cream – apply liberally to affected area 3-4 x per day until resolution.
- Vitamin k cream – apply liberally to affected area 3-4 x per day until resolution.
Final Results – Your final results can take 2-4 weeks. You will likely require further treatments to achieve your desired results.
Aftercare – Please contact the clinic immediately 1300 373 662 if you experience any inflammatory reaction and/or side effect. Late onset inflammatory response may occur at least 2 months after injection. If necessary, additional treatments, medications and/or surgery may be necessary.
If out of hours, please attend your local medical centre or emergency department.
- You may return to your normal activities (including driving immediately post-treatment.
- Please cleanse face with water and gentle cleanser. Avoid any active ingredients.
- Avoid makeup for at least 12 hours.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and extreme temperatures for at least 2 weeks post treatment.
- Avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol for 24 hours.
- Avoid touching or massaging the treatment area.
- Avoid facials, waxing, chemical peels, IPL, laser or any other skin treatments for at least 2 weeks after treatment.
As part of your post-treatment care plan, you will be provided with verbal and written post-treatment instructions.