Let’s face it: Jawline interventions are on the rise. Speaking to this trend, Melissa Doft, MD, a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City, sits down with Plastic Surgery Practice to discuss what’s behind this surge and why she attributes Zoom culture—and even superheroes—with it.
Plastic Surgery Practice: What are some key trends concerning jawline interventions?
Melissa Doft, MD: The biggest trend in jawline procedures is attaining better jaw definition. This means something different for every patient. For some, it means removing submental fat via liposuction, plicating the platysmal bands, and removing excess skin through a neck lift, extending the chin with an implant, or slimming the angle of the jaw using Botox.
PSP: What do you believe is propelling these trends?
Doft: A defined jawline has always been on trend because it signifies youth. Traditionally, we saw these patients as they aged in their 50-70s consulting for a facelift or a neck lift. The biggest shift is the focus on the jawline by patients who are in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Part of the trend can be attributed to ‘Zoom culture.’ Many young people are on Zoom all day, scrutinizing [their appearance].
We can also attribute the trend to pop culture and the focus on superheroes in the popular Marvel movies. Superheroes have always been portrayed as having very defined jaws and solid chins. As a society, we consider this to represent strength, power, and success. Lastly, we can attribute the trend to Instagram, a platform that so many of our patients use to learn about plastic surgery.
PSP: Are there any safety concerns regarding cosmetic massater Botox?
Doft: When placed correctly and in the appropriate amount, patients do very well with massater Botox. The most common side effects are redness, soreness, bruising, and possibly muscle pain. Fortunately, all these side effects are temporary.
PSP: What do you tell patients who you believe have unrealistic expectations regarding their outcomes in jawline interventions?
Doft: I explain to them what I think I can realistically achieve and what I can’t achieve. If they still have unrealistic expectations, I discourage them from having surgery.
PSP: Along with jawline interventions, what are some other key trends in facial plastic surgery, and what facial plastic surgery trends do you anticipate in the coming years?
Doft: The focus on the jawline is going to be a long-term trend. We are also seeing an interest in the neck, particularly focused on loose skin and lines. I also think patients are going to become more judicious about the number of fillers that have since there is a lot of discussion about over-filling the face. Noninvasive skin tightening will also be on the rise. Another trend that’s rising? Facelifts in younger patients.
