Non-Surgical Jaw Augmentation vs. Jaw Implants

When it comes to achieving a defined, sculpted jawline, there are two primary options: non-surgical jaw augmentation using dermal fillers or surgical jaw implants. Both methods can deliver impressive results, but they each come with their own benefits and limitations. As a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, I’ve helped many patients navigate the choice between fillers and implants based on their aesthetic goals, lifestyle, and comfort level with the different procedures.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of non-surgical jawline augmentation versus jaw implants, what to expect from each option, and how to decide which approach might be the best fit for you.

Jaw Augmentation with Fillers

One of the most popular ways to enhance the jawline without surgery is through the use of dermal fillers. These injectable treatments offer a non-invasive option for patients who want to add definition and contour to their jawline but aren’t quite ready to commit to a permanent implant.

How Jawline Fillers Work

Jawline fillers work by adding volume to the areas where the jawline may be less defined. If you have a weak or underdeveloped jaw, dermal fillers can help create the appearance of a stronger, more angular jaw by mimicking the look of bone structure.

When it comes to jawline enhancement, not all fillers are created equal. Since the jawline is a bony, structural area, thicker fillers with a high G prime (a measurement of a filler’s firmness and ability to resist deformation) are generally the best choice. A high G prime means the filler has a thicker consistency, making it more capable of providing the lift and support needed for the jawline.

Best Fillers for Jawline Augmentation

Here are some examples of fillers with a high G prime that are commonly used for jawline enhancement:

• Radiesse: One of my personal favorites for jawline augmentation, Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite-based filler that is thicker and more substantial than hyaluronic acid fillers. Radiesse is ideal for mimicking the density of bone, providing long-lasting and natural-looking results. It also stimulates collagen production over time, further enhancing the jawline’s structure.

• Restylane Lyft: This hyaluronic acid filler has a high G prime, making it a great option for contouring areas that need structure and definition, such as the jawline. Restylane Lyft is versatile and offers the benefit of being reversible, which is a plus for patients who may not want permanent changes right away.

• Juvederm Volux: Another hyaluronic acid filler with a high G prime, Voluma is commonly used for lifting and contouring the cheeks but can also be an effective option for the jawline. It’s a bit softer than Radiesse but still provides good structural support.

Why Choose Fillers for Jawline Augmentation?

One of the biggest advantages of jawline fillers is their versatility. Since the results are temporary, fillers are an excellent option for patients who are unsure if they want to commit to the permanence of an implant. If you’re curious about how a more defined jawline might look on you but don’t want to undergo surgery, fillers offer a way to test the waters.

Here are a few more reasons why non-surgical jaw augmentation might be the right choice for you:

• Minimal downtime: Jawline fillers can be injected in as little as 30-60 minutes, with most patients experiencing little to no downtime. You can return to your normal activities almost immediately.

• Reversible: If you opt for hyaluronic acid-based fillers, they can be dissolved if you’re not satisfied with the results or if you want to make adjustments.

• Customizable: Fillers can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need a subtle enhancement or more dramatic contouring, your provider can adjust the amount and placement of the filler to achieve the look you want.

Limitations of Fillers for Jawline Augmentation

While fillers are a fantastic option for many patients, they do have their limitations. The most significant drawback is that fillers will never have the same structure and firmness as a jaw implant. Over time, the filler will gradually break down, and the definition you once had will start to fade.

Additionally, because fillers aren’t as rigid as an implant, they may not create the same sharp angles or pronounced contours that an implant can achieve. Patients with significant jawline deficiencies may find that fillers can only do so much to enhance their jawline.

Surgical Jaw Implants

For patients looking for a more permanent solution with stronger, more defined contours, jaw implants may be the best option. Jaw implants can provide a sharper, more angular jawline by adding permanent structure to the bone.

There are several types of jaw implants available, including:

• Mandibular angle implants: These implants are placed at the angle of the jaw, just below the ears, to create a stronger and more defined jawline.

• Chin implants: Chin implants can enhance the projection of the chin, improving the overall balance of the face and providing more jawline definition.

• Wrap-around implants: For patients who want both enhanced jaw angles and a more pronounced chin, wrap-around implants can be used. These implants span the length of the jawline from the chin to the angle, providing a more cohesive and dramatic result.

Custom vs. Standard Implants

Jaw implants come in standard sizes and shapes, but for patients looking for the most tailored result, custom implants are also an option. Custom implants are designed using a CT scan of your jaw, allowing the implant to be perfectly molded to your individual anatomy.

However, custom implants can be quite costly. While standard implants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, custom implants can cost significantly more due to the additional steps involved in creating a personalized design.

The Benefits of Jaw Implants

The most significant benefit of jaw implants is their permanence. Unlike fillers, which need to be maintained over time, jaw implants are a one-time procedure that delivers long-lasting results. If you’re looking for a strong, defined jawline that will stay with you for years, implants are a great choice.

Jaw implants are also much stronger than fillers. Because they are made of solid material (such as silicone or porous polyethylene), they can provide the sharp angles and structure that fillers may not be able to achieve. For individuals with significant jawline deficiencies, implants can create a much more dramatic improvement in jawline definition.

The Downsides of Jaw Implants

While jaw implants offer permanent results and strong definition, they do come with some drawbacks. Here are a few of the main concerns:

• Risk of infection: Like any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection with jaw implants. If an infection occurs, the implant may need to be removed, and you may require additional surgery.

• Numbness: Jaw implants are placed close to facial nerves, so there is a risk of temporary or permanent numbness in the area. This is more common with mandibular angle implants.

• Discomfort during recovery: Mandibular angle implants sit underneath the masseter muscle, which is one of the muscles involved in chewing. As a result, the recovery period can be quite uncomfortable. Patients often experience soreness, swelling, and difficulty chewing for several weeks after surgery.

• Longer recovery time: Compared to fillers, the recovery time for jaw implants is significantly longer. While fillers require little to no downtime, patients who undergo implant surgery can expect several weeks of swelling, bruising, and discomfort.

Which Option is Best for You?

Deciding between non-surgical jaw augmentation with fillers and surgical jaw implants ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when weighing your options:

• Are you looking for permanent results or a temporary enhancement?

  • If you’re looking for a long-term solution, jaw implants may be the best choice. However, if you’re not ready to commit to permanent changes, fillers offer a reversible, temporary option.

• How defined do you want your jawline to be?

  • If you need subtle improvement, fillers may provide the definition you’re looking for. But if you want a more dramatic, angular jawline, implants will give you the stronger structure that fillers can’t achieve.

• What is your tolerance for recovery time?

  • If you prefer minimal downtime, fillers are the clear winner. Jaw implant surgery, while effective, comes with a longer recovery period that may not be suitable for everyone’s lifestyle.

Conclusion

Both non-surgical jaw augmentation with fillers and surgical jaw implants can enhance your jawline and provide the definition you’re seeking. The best choice for you will depend on your goals, the amount of definition you want, and your comfort level with surgery.

If you’re still unsure which option is right for you, I encourage you to schedule a consultation. As a facial plastic surgeon, I can help you evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve the jawline of your dreams—whether that involves fillers or implants!