All About Jaw Fillers

People unhappy with the appearance of their chin or jawline often seek ways to add more definition to that region. Jaw fillers, a type of injectable dermal filler, offer a nonsurgical option.

A softer jaw or chin can result from aging or heredity. Jaw fillers can create enhanced definition, symmetry, balance, and contour, particularly when viewed from the side.

However, not every filler product or practitioner delivers the same outcome. It’s crucial to know what jaw fillers can realistically achieve so you avoid results you don’t want.

In this piece, we’ll review the different filler types, the treatment process, and what you can expect from the outcome.

What are jaw fillers?

Jaw fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin. They add volume and can stimulate production of hyaluronic acid or collagen, helping to reduce the look of sagging skin and bone loss in the jaw area.

Jaw fillers can be used to:

• counteract age-related volume loss in the lower face
• create a more oval-shaped jawline
• minimize the appearance of jowls
• sculpt the jawline for a crisper profile
• correct an uneven jawline
• enhance or balance chin proportion
• provide structure and framing for the face

The procedure is commonly called nonsurgical jawline contouring. It’s a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that should be performed only by a qualified, licensed provider, such as a:

• plastic surgeon
• dermatologist
• nurse practitioner
• physician assistant

When injected along the mandible (lower jaw) in targeted locations, jaw fillers produce a clearer delineation between the jawline and the neck.

“Jaw filler gives the face a sharper angle, which makes you look skinnier,” says dermatologist Dr. Barry D. Goldman. “It provides a subtle change, which never looks overdone or over the top.”

Not every product has FDA approval for this region, though many clinicians use fillers off-label to bolster the chin or emphasize the jawline. Common fillers used include:

• hyaluronic acid formulations (Restylane Lyft and Juvederm Voluma or Volux)
• calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) (Radiesse)

There are multiple dermal filler options your provider might suggest for the chin and jaw. Currently, Juvederm Volux is the only filler officially approved by the FDA for chin and jaw augmentation.

Dr. Goldman notes that thicker fillers are preferable for the jaw and chin because they hold their shape and remain where placed.

Jaw filler by itself is usually not the primary treatment for a double chin. However, it can help when combined with other treatments like Kybella.

How much do jaw fillers cost?

When performed purely for aesthetic reasons in the United States, jaw filler is not covered by health insurance. Prices vary by region and the provider’s fees.

The particular filler recommended may affect cost somewhat. Generally, products such as Restylane Lyft, Juvederm Volux, and Radiesse cost similarly, averaging roughly $600 to $800 per syringe.

Age can also influence expense.

“Older patients who have experienced more bone and volume loss may require the use of more syringes per session,” says Dr. Goldman.

Fillers are gradually metabolized by the body. Your provider may advise follow-up touch-ups every 6 months or so. These smaller maintenance injections may cost about half or more of your initial treatment.

How long do jaw fillers last?

The effects of jaw filler are visible right away.

Duration varies by person, but for many, hyaluronic acid fillers can last up to 2 years. Calcium hydroxylapatite can endure for around 15 months.

Regardless of the product, you may notice results fading at 9 to 12 months, especially without consistent retreatment.

You can help prolong filler longevity by:

• avoiding excessive UV exposure and using sunscreen
• keeping skin moisturized
• staying well-hydrated
• following a nutritious diet
• managing stress levels

Do jaw fillers hurt?

Pain perception differs among individuals; some people experience more discomfort than others during jaw filler injections.

If you’re concerned about pain, discuss it with your provider beforehand.

Prior to injections, practitioners often numb the area with a topical anesthetic or other local numbing agents.

With an experienced injector, jaw filler injections should be tolerable. You may feel brief pressure or an odd sensation with each injection, but typically not intense pain.

Once the numbing agent wears off, you might feel some soreness at injection sites for up to a day.

Any severe or prolonged pain, although rare, should prompt an immediate call to your clinician.

What’s the jaw filler procedure like?

During your consultation, ask your provider what to expect before, during, and after jaw filler.

Before the procedure

Generally, prior to receiving jaw fillers you should:

• inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you take
• stop blood thinners, OTC pain relievers, and supplements such as St. John’s Wort, vitamin E, garlic, ginseng, and evening primrose oil
• avoid alcohol for 24–48 hours before treatment
• pause topical skin products containing glycolic acid, retinols, or retinoids for several days pre-treatment
• avoid hair removal methods like tweezing in the treatment area during this time
• eat and drink normally before your appointment, since injectable jaw contouring is nonsurgical

During procedure

Arrive for your appointment makeup-free and in comfortable attire. The typical procedure is short and may include:

1. Your provider numbs the treatment area.
2. After numbing, small amounts of filler gel are injected at multiple sites along the mandible. A cannula can be used to place the product.
3. The clinician works slowly and evaluates results after each injection.

The whole treatment generally takes about 30 minutes.

After procedure

Some bruising or swelling is common after jaw filler. Ask your provider whether topical arnica is appropriate to reduce bruising.

Applying ice immediately after and as needed can help with swelling and discomfort.

What results can I expect from jaw fillers?

Even with minor swelling, improvements should be noticeable right away. You’ll typically be able to resume work and normal activities immediately after treatment.

To optimize your outcome:

• avoid trying to hide redness or swelling with makeup right after the procedure
• skip intense exercise for a short period
• avoid alcohol
• stay out of direct, strong sunlight

Any side effects or complications from jaw fillers to be aware of?

Common side effects include:

• temporary discomfort
• swelling
• redness
• itchiness
• breakouts

Less common issues may include:

• infection
• formation of skin nodules
• inflammatory reactions (granulomas)
• skin lumps

Serious complications from dermal fillers are rare.

Choosing an experienced medical professional reduces the risk of severe problems from inadvertent injection into facial arteries or nerves.

Serious complications can include:

• tissue necrosis from compromised blood flow
• asymmetry
• scarring
• damage to blood vessels

What are the alternatives to jaw fillers?

Jaw filler isn’t suitable for everyone. Depending on your goals, alternatives to consider include:

• Exercise and diet. Jaw-tightening exercises can help emphasize the jawline. If a double chin is related to excess weight, dietary changes may reduce it.
• Botox. Rather than adding volume, Botox can slim the jaw’s appearance and may help relieve TMJ-related pain. For more on using neurotoxins to alter jaw shape, see botox for slimmer face.
• Kybella or CoolSculpting. These treatments target the fat pad under the chin. CoolSculpting freezes and eliminates fat cells, while Kybella dissolves them.
• Jaw surgery. For a permanent transformation, surgical options exist. While effective, surgery may not be covered by insurance and can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

The takeaway

Jaw filler provides a temporary, safe method to alter the appearance of your chin, jawline, and overall facial structure.

It’s typically used for subtle improvements, but even modest increases in jaw definition or chin volume can noticeably change your facial appearance.

Carefully consider your objectives and consult with a licensed, experienced practitioner to discuss whether this treatment aligns with your goals.