According to the Chinese zodiac, 2023 is the year of the rabbit—but as far as facial plastic surgeons are concerned, it’s the year of the jawline. From the sudden emergence of “Ozempic face” in real life to Ken’s chiseled chin taking over the big screen, inspiration is literally everywhere.

But while the Barbie movie has upped the sex appeal of the snatched jawline, the reality of life after weight-loss drugs could be one reason for the uptick in facial cosmetic procedures. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), 60 percent of facial plastic surgeon members report seeing an increase of patients presenting with “Ozempic Face”—a side effect of the weight loss drug Semaglutide that results in facial deflation. In addition, 34 percent of members believe that patients are more interested in facelifts and neck lifts and other neck procedures than ever before.  

Here, Theda Kontis, M.D., President of the AAFPRS and Mark Hamilton, M.D., AAFPRS Chair, Public Information Committee, share their expert insight in effective jawline solutions.

"As we all know every patient is different so the optimal technique for improving your jawline varies depending on your individual anatomy,” says Dr. Kontis. "One size does not fit all. Most patients can realize improvement with these options, whether it's injectable fillers, implants, or surgery to define the jawline."    

Read on for 7 treatment options that, when properly implemented by a qualified physician, have earned the AAFPRS seal of approval for that #SnatchedJawline.

1. A Lower Facelift

Focusing on all the parts below the corners of the mouth including the marionette lines, jawline, submental (under chin) area, jowls, and the neck, a lower facelift is the most invasive in this list, but it’s the gold standard for creating that chiseled jawline The ultimate goals of a lower facelift are to reposition the deep tissues which have fallen and remove the excess overlying skin. Incisions are placed around the ears for scar camouflage. Recovery is 10-14 days, and the results can last 8-10 years. 

2. Chin Implants

To help give shape to a small chin and weak jawline, look no further than a chin implant. “There are all kinds of implant options, but solid silicone tends to be the most preferred among surgeons,” says Kontis. “They’re biocompatible, have a very low infection rate, and look and feel incredibly natural.” 

3. Kybella 

This injectable treatment is being touted as one of the most effective ways to treat early jowling and submental chin fat (read: double chin). “Typically, patients experience swelling and bruising in the treated region for a week or two, with visible improvement thereafter,” says Kontis.  Often patients need 2-3 treatments for optimal improvement, but the results are long-lasting.

4. Fillers

Hyaluronic acid gels such as Volux can add volume to areas lacking definition, lending a more youthful and “cut” appearance. “This is an instant gratification procedure, meaning patients can expect to leave the office with the results they were hoping for,” says Kontis.

5. Radio Frequency + Ultrasound Devices 

“There are several non-invasive energy (ultrasound or radio frequency) devices available to help improve the jawline and stimulate collagen,” says Hamilton. “They are effective and a nice alternative to fractional laser treatments, which require more downtime and can’t be used on all skin types.” One important caveat: Whether patients opt for ultrasound or radio frequency, a few treatments are typically required as results can be subtle. In addition, these non-surgical procedures are typically used in the early stages of neck and jawline laxity or as a complement to surgical procedures.

6. Neuromodulators

Once again proving their efficacy outside of wrinkles, neuromodulators can be incredibly effective in defining the jawline. “By making the masseter smaller—that’s the muscle that runs from the rear part of the cheek to the lower jaw—neuromodulators can create the illusion of a more sculpted jawline,” says Kontis. “This is especially effective for Asian patients who tend to have more prominence here.” Also, the “Nefertiti Necklift” is performed by injecting neurotoxin along the jawline and neck, which also can help define the jawline in some patients.

7. Liposuction

It may sound old school, but classic lipo is still one of the fastest, most effective ways to tighten up—especially for patients hoping to ditch that dreaded double chin. “To reduce excess fat under the chin, it’s the gold standard,” says Hamilton. 

Ready to book a consultation? Remember, “your first priority should be to find the most qualified physician possible,” says Hamilton. “It’s really important to select a surgeon who’s trained specifically in procedures of the face, head, and neck.”

ABOUT THE AAFPRS:The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is the world’s largest specialty association for facial plastic surgery. It represents more than 2,200 facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons who perform plastic surgery of the face, head, and neck, and the majority of rhinoplasties, throughout the world.