Facial contouring procedures aim to address concerns about the jawline, cheeks, and facial balance. Both non-invasive and minimally invasive options are available, The most appropriate procedure depends on your individual presentation, medical suitability, and personal preferences.

Many people seek procedures to address concerns about their jawline, cheekbones, and skin appearance, but prefer to avoid surgery.. That’s where facial contouring treatments come in.

There are various approaches to facial contouring without surgical intervention.

But with so many options, how do you know which one is right for you? 

Some procedures involve single sessions, others require ongoing maintenance. Some may be more appropriate for certain skin types or age groups, while others are designed to address age-related changes.

Below, we’re breaking down facial contouring treatments, so you can understand the options before consultation..

But first, what is facial contouring?

Facial contouring procedures aim to address the appearance of the jawline, cheekbones, and facial proportions. 

In the past, surgery was the only way to reshape facial structure. Now, non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures are available. 

Some procedures target subcutaneous fat in areas such as the submental or jaw region. Others may address skin laxity or collagen production.

Whether you’re concerned about specific areas or seeking overall facial refinement, modern procedures offer options that don’t involve surgical intervention. However, individual suitability varies and professional assessment is essential.

True-lift — A ligament-based approach

True-Lift is a non-surgical procedure that uses hyaluronic acid formulations applied to facial ligament insertion points. 

This procedure must be performed by appropriately trained practitioners. These ligaments act like scaffolding, holding up the structure of your face. 

With ageing, these ligaments may weaken due to gravitational effects and collagen changes, which may contribute to tissue descent, particularly around the jawline, cheeks, and midface.

This procedure applies hyaluronic acid to ligament insertion points with the aim of providing structural support. Individual responses vary.

The procedure may be used to address concerns about cheek position, jawline definition, and overall facial appearance. 

Effects typically last approximately 12 to 18 months, though individual variation exists based on metabolic factors and lifestyle. Maintenance procedures are required to sustain results.

Recovery time is typically minimal. Some swelling or bruising may occur. Most patients resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.

FaceTite — Radiofrequency-assisted procedure

is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to target subcutaneous fat while affecting skin characteristics.

This treatment may be useful for targeting, neck, and lower face. 

It may be considered for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity who are not candidates for or do not wish to undergo surgical face lifting procedures. It requires small incisions.

The procedure delivers controlled RF energy beneath the skin surface. This thermal energy affects adipose tissue, which is then metabolised by the body over time. The RF energy may also affect skin characteristics through influencing collagen production.

Some changes may be apparent shortly after the procedure, but the full appearance develops gradually as collagen remodelling occurs and swelling resolves.

How long results last varies significantly between individuals. Factors including ongoing ageing, lifestyle, weight fluctuations, and skincare practices will affect longevity. Recovery involves a healing period, which may involve swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within several days, though exercise restrictions typically apply for approximately one week.

Gua Sha — Manual technique

Gua sha is a traditional manual technique that uses a smooth stone tool with gliding strokes across facial tissues. The technique is based on principles of promoting circulation and lymphatic movement.

Unlike professional medical procedures, gua sha does not target adipose tissue or directly affect collagen production through controlled thermal or mechanical injury. It is a manual technique that aims to provide temporary cosmetic effects.

For any visible effects, gua sha requires regular use, typically daily or several times weekly. The technique requires several minutes per session. 

The key is using light to moderate pressure while following the natural structure of the face.

A gua sha routine requires just two things: a gua sha tool and a facial oil. The oil helps the stone glide smoothly over the skin without pulling or causing irritation. While some individuals report visible effects over time, results are subtle and temporary compared to medical procedures. It may be considered by those preferring non-medical approaches. 

How to find the right facial contouring treatment for you

The appropriate facial contouring procedure depends on your individual presentation, medical history, aesthetic concerns, budget considerations, and tolerance for recovery time. Professional assessment is essential.

Professional procedures like True-Lift or FaceTite require medical consultation and assessment to determine individual suitability. These procedures involve medical intervention and carry associated risks.

Manual techniques like gua sha do not require medical supervision but also do not provide the same type of results as medical procedures.

Maintenance requirements vary. Some procedures, like FaceTite, may provide longer-lasting changes, while others, like True-Lift, require touch-up procedures every 12–18 months. Manual techniques require ongoing regular use.

The best way to find the right treatment for you? Consult with a cosmetic physician. Dr. Scott Allison can help you decide based on your face shape, skin type, and desired outcome. 

Sculpting your face your way

Whether you’re considering medical procedures like FaceTite, manual techniques like gua sha, or other approaches, professional consultation is required to determine appropriateness and safety.

If you’re interested in procedures with longer-lasting effects, medical consultation is necessary to determine individual suitability. If you prefer non-medical manual techniques, understanding their limitations is important. 

There is no universally appropriate choice — only what may be suitable for your individual circumstances following professional assessment.