Jawline Enhancement with a Deep Neck Reduction Surgery in Layton, Utah

Submandibular or Submaxillary Gland Reduction Surgery

Reducing submandibular glands is a cosmetic procedure aimed at improving the jawline’s contour by reducing the size and fullness of the submandibular (also called submaxillary) glands. This procedure has gained popularity among individuals looking for a well-defined, contoured jawline and neck. The surgery is a nuanced approach to facial refinement, often combined with other facial procedures to achieve an overall balanced aesthetic.  This procedure can be combined with removal of subcutaneous fat (liposuction), removal of a muscle called the digastric muscle and removal of deep fat and lymph nodes beneath the platysma muscle.  Together, this procedure is called a deep neck reduction.

What are the Submandibular Glands?

The submandibular glands are two small, ping pong ball sized salivary glands located beneath the jawline, responsible for producing saliva that helps in digestion. While they typically remain hidden behind the jaw, some individuals experience natural drooping of these glands over time, which can make them visible beneath the skin, particularly along the jawline and under the chin. This fullness or bulging effect, in both slender individuals and those with a heavy or thick neck, can detract from a sharply defined jawline and may give an unwanted “double chin” appearance.

The Submandibular Gland Reduction Procedure

Reducing the submandibular glands is a specialized surgical procedure that requires precision and expertise to ensure both aesthetic and functional outcomes. The surgery involves making a small incision under the chin, through which the surgeon carefully accesses the glands. Depending on the patient’s goals, the surgeon may reduce the gland size or, in some cases, reposition it to achieve a smoother, more streamlined appearance.

This procedure is typically performed under conscious sedation type of anesthesia, depending on whether it is combined with other surgeries such as a facelift or neck lift or a deep neck reduction. The surgery generally takes one to two hours, and patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling in the treated area. Because of the skilled techniques involved, recovery times are typically brief, with most patients returning to normal activities within a week, although full results become apparent as swelling subsides, usually within a few months.

Who is a Good Candidate for Submandibular Gland Reduction?

Submandibular gland reduction is ideal for individuals who are in good health, have realistic expectations, and are particularly concerned about fullness or bulging along their jawline or under their chin. Candidates should be those who have experienced gland prominence due to natural anatomy, aging, or weight fluctuations and desire a more defined, sculpted jawline. Consulting with a qualified, board-certified facial plastic surgeon, like Dr. Bitner, is essential for determining candidacy, as this procedure requires a careful assessment of facial anatomy and goals.

Benefits and Considerations

One of the primary benefits of submandibular gland reduction is the dramatic improvement it can bring to the jawline’s shape and definition. This procedure provides long-lasting results, and for many patients, it is a one-time solution that enhances facial symmetry and the jawline without the need for implants or other cosmetic tools. When performed by an experienced surgeon, the surgery leaves no visible scarring, as incisions are discreetly placed, adding to the appeal of the procedure.

Patients should also be aware of potential risks, which include temporary numbness, changes in saliva production, or asymmetry. However, these risks are significantly minimized when working with a skilled surgeon experienced in submandibular gland surgery.

Is Submandibular Gland Reduction Right for You?

If you’re interested in enhancing your jawline and removing excess fullness below the chin, submandibular gland reduction may be the ideal option for you. This precise and effective procedure offers a subtle, natural improvement that can bring a refined, confident look to your profile. A personalized consultation with a skilled facial plastic surgeon, like Dr. Bitner, can provide a deeper understanding of how this surgery can help you reach your aesthetic goals, delivering a lasting enhancement that complements your facial features.  Dr. Bitner is the only surgeon in Utah who does removal of the submandibular gland for cosmetic enhancement of the jawline.