When the skin on your face begins to lose its firmness and volume, your cheeks will sag, and your jawline will appear less defined. Natural ageing, changes in the fat pad, bone loss, and lifestyle factors like sun exposure, stress, or weight fluctuations are typically the causes of this.
There are methods to restore a youthful contour, ranging from straightforward facial exercises and skincare to non-surgical procedures like fillers, threads, and energy-based devices, as well as surgical options.
In this blog, we’ll go over everything you need to know about sagging cheeks, including what causes them, how to identify them early, and the best natural or professional methods for lifting your midface.
Sagging cheeks are when the skin on your cheeks starts to droop and look less firm. When we are young, our cheeks are full and lifted, giving the face a fresh, round shape. Over time, they can lose that plumpness and start to sag, making the face look a little tired or less defined.
It’s a natural part of ageing, and almost everyone experiences it.
Here are the main factors that may lead to saggy cheeks:
Ageing naturally causes the skin to lose some of its firmness. The tissues that once kept our cheeks lifted and plump start to relax, making the cheeks droop and softening the natural contours of the face.
The bones in our face, especially around the cheeks and jaw, slowly shrink a little as we grow older. This reduces support for the skin and tissues above, which can make the cheeks sag more easily.
Underneath the skin, small pockets of fat give the face its shape. Over time, these fat pads can shift downwards. When this happens, the cheeks may look flatter, and the lower face can appear heavier.
Lifestyle habits such as smoking, poor diet, lack of water, and high stress levels can all speed up sagging. These habits affect how healthy and strong the skin remains, making cheeks droop faster.
Rapid changes in weight can also affect the face. When weight is lost quickly, the skin can’t always tighten back immediately, which may cause the cheeks to look saggy.
The natural strength of the skin can be harmed by excessive sun exposure. The proteins that keep the skin firm, collagen and elastin, are broken down by UV light. This may cause cheeks to lose their smoothness and lift over time.
Finally, genetics plays a part. Some people naturally have skin and facial structures that sag earlier or more easily. Family traits influence how and when sagging cheeks appear.
Sagging cheeks can slowly change the look of your face, and noticing the signs early helps you take action.
Not sure if your cheeks are starting to sag? Here’s a simple way to check:
Modern aesthetic treatments focus on lifting, firming, and restoring lost volume in the cheeks. Specialists often combine techniques for the best results, addressing the skin, underlying muscles, and facial structure for a natural, youthful appearance.
Replacing lost facial volume helps lift sagging cheeks and restore a youthful contour.
Cheek fillers or dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, e.g., Juvéderm Voluma and Restylane Lyft, add instant volume to the cheekbones and temples, helping lift the lower face and smooth nasolabial folds. Creates a refreshed, natural look.
Stimulate your body’s own collagen over several months. Volume returns gradually, giving natural-looking results that can last up to two years.
Profhilo Structura is designed specifically for mid-face restructuring; it improves cheek firmness and hydration. Offers long-lasting results and enhances the natural contours of the face.
These treatments use heat or focused ultrasound to tighten deep layers of the skin and stimulate new collagen production. The effects gradually improve over 2 to 3 months and can last up to two years.
Targets the deep SMAS layer beneath the skin using focused ultrasound. It gently lifts the cheeks, brow, and jawline, giving a natural, long-lasting improvement without surgery.
Uses radiofrequency energy to heat the dermis, causing collagen contraction and renewal. Smooths out crepey skin, tightens the face, and improves overall firmness.
It delivers parallel ultrasound beams to the mid-dermal layer, improving early sagging and fine lines. It tightens the skin gradually with no downtime.
These treatments physically lift sagging tissues while encouraging collagen growth, offering both immediate and long-term benefits.
Biodegradable threads are inserted under the skin to lift sagging cheeks. They provide an instant mechanical lift while stimulating natural collagen to create lasting support.
Tiny needles deliver radiofrequency energy deep into the dermis and subdermal fat. Tightens sagging midface tissue, sculpts the jawline, and improves overall cheek firmness.
Modern devices target multiple layers of the face to provide combined lifting, tightening, and muscle-toning effects.
A needle-free treatment that uses radiofrequency combined with facial muscle stimulation. Strengthens the elevator muscles of the face while tightening skin, creating a subtle, natural lift.
A minimally invasive laser procedure where a tiny fibre melts small fat pockets and tightens the tissues simultaneously, improving midface contour and firmness.
Removes tiny cores of excess skin to reduce laxity without traditional surgery. It physically tightens the cheeks, giving a smoother, firmer, and more youthful appearance.
When sagging is more severe and non-surgical options are no longer able to provide enough lift, surgical treatments are typically taken into consideration.
A facelift lifts and repositions the deeper layers of the face, not just the skin. It helps raise sagging cheeks, smooth deep folds, and improve jowls. Results are long-lasting, but recovery time is longer compared to non-surgical treatments.
This treatment uses your own fat, taken from areas like the abdomen or thighs, and places it into the cheeks. It restores lost volume and soft lift in a very natural way. Some of the fat settles permanently, while some is absorbed by the body over time.
Cheek implants are solid implants placed over the cheekbones to enhance structure and projection. They can improve facial balance and support sagging tissue. This option is usually chosen by people who want a permanent change to their cheek shape.
Even if you don’t want to go for professional treatments yet, there are ways you can support your cheeks at home. These methods help improve muscle tone, skin firmness, and overall appearance naturally. Results take time and consistency, but they can make a noticeable difference.
Gentle exercises for your cheeks can strengthen the muscles underneath your skin, giving your face a lifted look.
Practising these for a few minutes every day helps tone the midface muscles over time.
Massaging your cheeks can boost circulation and make your skin feel firmer. Using tools can enhance the effect.
Healthy habits support skin elasticity from the inside out.
Talk to an expert if:
Sagging cheeks are a natural part of ageing, but there are plenty of ways to refresh and lift your midface. From simple daily exercises and skincare to advanced non-surgical treatments or surgical options, the right approach can restore volume, firmness, and confidence.
If you’re looking for guidance on the best solution for your sagging cheeks, consulting with an experienced professional at Yorkshire Skin Centre can help you choose a safe and personalised plan for a naturally youthful look.
Use collagen-boosting skincare products, eat healthy fats, stay hydrated, perform facial exercises like the “Cheek Lifter,” and massage your face upward with oils or tools. Cheeks can be lifted and made firmer with regular practice.
Try facial exercises, massages, or energy-based treatments like Ultherapy and RF microneedling to tighten and lift the midface.
Cheeks can begin to sag as early as the late 30s or early 40s due to collagen loss, fat pad descent, and bone changes. However, the timing varies depending on genetics, lifestyle, sun exposure, and skincare habits.
You can’t fully reverse ageing, but fillers, thread lifts, and collagen-boosting treatments can restore volume and lift sagging cheeks.
Dermal fillers and collagen stimulators restore lost cheek volume, while RF microneedling improves firmness and skin quality for a lifted appearance.
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Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Administrator
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Senior Surgical Sister(RN)
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Clinical Assistant
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for.
Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Administrator
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team.
With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Practitioner
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments.
With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”
Patient Representative
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Sales Administrator
Aesthetic Doctor
Expert Practitioner
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Clinic Director
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
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Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
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Consultant Ophthalmologist & Oculoplastic Surgeon
Mr Jeeva is celebrated for his mastery in aesthetic eyelid surgery. By adopting a patient-centric ethos, he delivers personalised treatments that amplify natural beauty and revive youthful vitality.
He has completed a prestigious fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons, specialising in cosmetic plastic surgery. This rigorous training has endowed him with advanced techniques in aesthetic surgery, ensuring outcomes that are both beautiful and natural.
With a specialised fellowship in oculoplastic surgery, Mr Jeeva has honed his skills in delicate eyelid surgeries, tear duct disorders… Read More
Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
