Quick answer: Jowls are sagging skin and fat along the jawline. In Korea, the most common non-surgical treatments are HIFU lifting (such as Ultherapy), radiofrequency tightening (such as Thermage), InMode for fat and skin, thread lifts for a direct lift, and small amounts of filler or Botox for shape. Many people get the best result by combining two of these.
Key takeaways
- Jowls come from loose skin, weaker support tissue, fat and bone changes with age.
- HIFU lifts deeper layers; RF tightens the skin.
- InMode helps when fat under the jaw is part of the problem.
- Thread lifts give the most visible lift without surgery.
- Mild to moderate jowls respond best. Severe sagging may need surgery.
What causes jowls?
- Loss of collagen and elastin, so the skin becomes looser.
- Weaker support layers (SMAS) that hold the face up.
- Fat moving down from the cheeks to the jaw.
- Bone changes around the jaw and chin with age.
Lower-face lifting is one of the most common reasons visitors come to Gangnam. Korea treated about 2.01 million foreign patients in 2025, and around 63% came for dermatology, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Which Korean treatments work best for jowls?
1. HIFU lifting (Ultherapy, Shurink)
Focused ultrasound heats the deep support layer and the skin, which lifts and tightens over two to three months. It is often the first choice for early jowls. See our Ultherapy Prime guide and HIFU lifting.
2. Radiofrequency tightening (Thermage FLX)
RF heats the skin more evenly, which improves firmness and texture. Many people combine it with HIFU. See Thermage FLX.
3. InMode (FaceTite and Accutite)
InMode uses RF under the skin to reduce small fat pockets and tighten the jawline. It has more swelling than HIFU but can give a clearer jaw. See InMode for the jawline.
4. Thread lift
Threads lift sagging tissue straight away and support collagen. They suit people who want a visible lift without surgery. See our Korean thread lift guide.
5. Filler and Botox for shape
A little filler at the chin and jaw angle can hide early jowls. Botox can relax muscles that pull the lower face down. See jawline contouring in Korea and marionette line treatments.
Which option is right for me?
- Early jowls, good skin: HIFU, sometimes with RF.
- Jowls with fat under the jaw: InMode, plus HIFU if needed.
- Moderate sagging: thread lift, often with HIFU.
- Soft jawline from bone or chin shape: filler.
Your age also matters. See lifting treatments for your 40s and rejuvenation in your 50s.
What is the downtime?
- HIFU and RF: mild redness or tenderness for a few days.
- InMode: swelling and tightness for about one to two weeks.
- Threads: swelling for about a week.
- Filler and Botox: little or no downtime.
Plan stronger treatments early in your trip. Read how many days to stay after lifting and low-downtime treatments before flying.
How long do the results last?
HIFU and RF results usually last about a year. Thread lifts often last 12 to 18 months. Fat reduction from InMode can be long-lasting if your weight stays stable. Many people repeat lifting once a year to keep the result.
When is surgery a better choice?
If the skin is very loose or the jowls are heavy, non-surgical treatments may only give a small change. A good doctor will tell you honestly when a surgical opinion is better.
How to choose a clinic
- Ask to see the device or product before treatment.
- Ask how many shots, lines or threads are planned, and get a written quote.
- Make sure the doctor who consults you performs the treatment.
Read our guide to choosing a dermatology clinic in Gangnam.
Frequently asked questions
Can jowls be fixed without surgery?
Mild to moderate jowls can improve a lot. Heavy sagging often needs surgery.
Which is better for jowls, Ultherapy or Thermage?
Ultherapy lifts deeper layers; Thermage tightens the skin. Many people combine them.
How soon will I see results?
Threads and filler show results straight away. HIFU and RF improve over two to three months.
Is one session enough?
One session of HIFU or RF is often enough for a year. Some people add a second treatment for a stronger effect.
Sources
- Ministry of Health and Welfare, Republic of Korea – 2025 foreign patient statistics (press release, 2026). mohw.go.kr
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration – 510(k) premarket notification database (Ulthera System). fda.gov
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Results vary between individuals. Please consult a qualified physician before any treatment.
