Lower Face Lift in Gangnam: Restoring the Jawline and Softening Jowls
The short answer
A lower face lift tightens sagging skin and the deeper SMAS layer along the jawline, jowls and lower cheeks, restoring a cleaner jaw contour through incisions around the ear. In Gangnam it typically costs about KRW 10–20 million, takes about 3–4 hours under general anesthesia or deep sedation, and needs about 2 weeks in Seoul. Results commonly last around 8–10 years, and a neck lift can be added.
Key facts
- What it treats: Jowls, blurred jawline, lower-cheek sagging, marionette shadows
- Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 10–20 million
- Operating time: About 3–4 hours
- Anesthesia: General or deep sedation
- Techniques: Mini, SMAS or deep plane; optional neck lift
- Recommended stay: About 14 days
- Typical longevity: About 8–10 years
What a lower face lift is
A lower face lift is a surgical procedure that tightens sagging skin and the tissues beneath it in the lower face, targeting the jawline, jowls and lower cheeks. As the retaining ligaments along the jaw loosen and fat descends, the straight line of the jaw breaks up into jowls, and shadows form from the corners of the mouth downward.
The surgeon works through an incision in front of and around the ear, lifts the skin, then repositions the deeper SMAS layer upward and backward so the jaw line is redefined. The skin is re-draped with minimal tension and excess is trimmed. Because the lift is carried by the deep layer, results look natural and last longer than skin-only tightening.
What a lower face lift treats
Common concerns
- Jowls that blur the jawline
- An undefined jawline from sagging rather than fat
- Lower-cheek heaviness and marionette shadows
- Early softening under the jaw
Types of lower face lift in Korea
Mini lower face lift
Short incisions and SMAS plication for early jowls; see mini facelift.
SMAS lower face lift
A fuller SMAS lift along the jaw for moderate sagging.
Deep plane lower face lift
Releases the mandibular and masseteric ligaments for a stronger jawline correction.
Lower face lift plus neck lift
Adds platysma tightening and neck contouring when the neck has loose skin or bands; see neck lift.
Who it suits
- Moderate jowls in the mid-40s to 60s
- Patients for whom threads, HIFU or RF no longer help
- A neck that is still reasonably firm, or a plan to add a neck lift
Choosing a surgeon in Gangnam
Ask which technique the surgeon recommends for your degree of sagging, how they handle the earlobe and scar line, and whether a neck lift is advisable. Review results at least a year after surgery.
Cost of lower face lift in Korea
| Plan | Typical Gangnam range |
|---|---|
| Mini lower face lift | KRW 7–12 million |
| SMAS lower face lift | KRW 10–16 million |
| Deep plane lower face lift | KRW 14–20 million |
| Add neck lift | About KRW 3–7 million extra |
Recovery and results
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Swelling and tightness along the jaw, compression dressing |
| Days 7–10 | Stitches removed |
| Weeks 2–3 | Presentable with makeup; cleared to fly |
| Months 3–6 | Final jawline |
Numbness around the ears and cheeks is common and typically improves over several months.
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about hematoma, temporary weakness of the lower lip (marginal mandibular nerve), scars, earlobe distortion, asymmetry and relapse. Ask how bleeding risk is managed, including blood pressure control.
Lower face lift vs. non-surgical lifting
| Lower face lift | Threads or HIFU | |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Strong, structural | Mild |
| Longevity | About 8–10 years | Months to about a year |
| Downtime | About 2 weeks | 0–3 days |
Compare options in Korean alternatives to facelift surgery.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
How long does a lower face lift last?
Results commonly last about 8–10 years, depending on technique and ageing.
Do I also need a neck lift?
If you have loose neck skin or bands, adding a neck lift usually gives a more balanced result.
Where are the scars?
Around the front of the ear and earlobe, sometimes extending behind the ear into the hairline.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 2 weeks so stitches can be removed and swelling checked.
Can threads replace a lower face lift?
Threads can help mild sagging for a limited time, but they cannot match a surgical lift for moderate jowls.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.