Guide

Why do jowls form?

Jowls are the soft folds that develop along the jawline, below the corners of the mouth. They form as facial support structures weaken with age: collagen and elastin decline, ligaments loosen, fat pads shift downward and the SMAS, a fibrous layer under the skin and fat, loses tension. Genetics, weight changes and sun exposure all influence how early this appears.

Because jowls involve deeper layers than the skin surface, treatments that work only at the skin, such as boosters, cannot lift them on their own. The full picture of this concern is covered in sagging skin and jowls.

How does Ultherapy Prime address jowls?

Ultherapy Prime delivers focused ultrasound energy to precise depths, commonly around 1.5 mm, 3.0 mm and 4.5 mm. The 4.5 mm depth reaches the SMAS, the same layer surgeons tighten in a facelift. Tiny heat points cause controlled contraction and trigger new collagen formation over the following months.

The "Prime" platform adds real-time ultrasound imaging so the practitioner can see tissue layers while treating, which supports accurate depth placement. Read more on the device itself on our Ultherapy Prime page.

Who is a good candidate?

Adults, usually from their mid-30s to 60s, with mild to moderate jowling
People who want a non-surgical option without incisions
Those with reasonable skin elasticity who can wait several months for results
Patients who want to delay or reduce the need for surgery later

It is less likely to be enough for very heavy jowls, significant excess skin, or a lot of fat along the jaw. In those cases the doctor may discuss combining treatments or referring for a surgical opinion. Thin skin is not always a barrier but needs careful assessment; see Is Ultherapy good for thin skin?

What happens on treatment day?

Consultation and mapping: The doctor examines the jawline, cheeks and neck, then plans depths and shot distribution.
Numbing: Topical numbing cream is commonly applied; additional comfort options are discussed.
Treatment: Gel is applied and the transducer delivers lines of energy. Many people feel deep warmth or prickling, strongest near bone.
Finish: Gel is wiped off and soothing products applied. Most people return to normal activities the same day.

What results and timeline are realistic?

Some people see a slight lift immediately from initial tissue contraction, but the main change develops as collagen builds over 2–6 months. Results commonly last around 12 months, and many patients repeat treatment yearly to maintain them. The change is typically subtle and natural rather than dramatic. Results vary by individual.

How should I prepare for treatment?

Avoid alcohol for 24 hours beforehand to reduce the chance of bruising
Tell the doctor about blood thinners, supplements such as fish oil, and any recent filler or threads in the area
Arrive without makeup if possible, or allow time to remove it
Plan important photos or events at least a few days later, in case of swelling or tenderness
If you are visiting Seoul, share your flight date so the session can be scheduled with enough buffer

Pregnancy, active skin infection, open wounds, and some implants in the treatment area are usually reasons to postpone. Recent isotretinoin use is also discussed at consultation.

Side effects to know about

Redness and mild swelling for a few hours to a few days
Tenderness along the jaw for days to a few weeks
Occasional bruising or temporary numbness
Rarely, temporary nerve irritation affecting the smile on one side, which typically resolves

What can it be combined with?

Thermage FLX: adds surface tightening and texture improvement; see Ultherapy Prime vs Thermage FLX
Thread lifting: Dooth or Mint threads for a more immediate mechanical lift
Filler: to restore lost volume in the cheeks that contributes to jowls
Skin boosters: to improve skin quality alongside the lift

What are the alternatives?

Sofwave: targets the mid-dermis, often chosen for skin tightening with shorter sessions
Thread lift: faster visible lift, more downtime
Eternal Youth program: a Re:berry signature, regeneration-centered approach
Surgical facelift: for advanced sagging with excess skin

Pricing depends on the area, shot count and overall plan and is confirmed in writing at consultation. Visit our Booking page to request a consultation.

How many shots are used for jowls?

Shot count depends on face size, skin thickness, degree of sagging and whether the neck or cheeks are included. The doctor decides after mapping your face. A transparent plan states the number of shots and the areas covered, so you know exactly what is included before treatment begins.

Can I fly the day after Ultherapy Prime?

Many people fly the next day because downtime is usually minimal. Swelling and tenderness can feel more noticeable in a dry cabin, so stay hydrated and avoid alcohol. If you have bruising, allow a few extra days before important photos. Discuss your departure date at consultation.

Will Ultherapy Prime make my face look thinner?

It is designed to lift and tighten tissue, not to remove fat, so it should not make the face look hollow when properly planned. Very slim faces are assessed carefully to avoid overtreatment. If fat along the jaw is a concern, the doctor may suggest a separate contouring treatment.