Jawline BOTOX®: Can It Change the Shape of Your Face? (Updated Oct. 2023)

Model showing jawline

BOTOX® (botulinum toxin) is part of our culture now—after decades of use for cosmetic purposes. As most of you know, it works by neutralizing the ability of certain muscles to contract, when injected carefully into various areas of the face and/or body.

BOTOX is most popular for eliminating the frown lines between the eyebrows and the finer lines around the eyes known as crow’s feet. But BOTOX is also an often-used treatment for a growing list of cosmetic and medical needs, and jawline BOTOX is becoming increasingly popular to slim an overly broad jawline.

What Causes an Enlarged Jaw Muscle?

Teeth grinding, clenching, and chewing. These are some of the most common culprits in cases of people who’ve developed larger jaw muscles.

  • Some people don’t even realize they have a teeth-grinding problem, because it often occurs during sleep. Dentists can assist with minimizing the damage to teeth often caused by this condition.
  • Others have a habit of clenching the jaw muscles frequently throughout the day, in response to stress or while concentrating on a task.
  • Some people develop larger jaw muscles by chewing gum all the time.

Face Slimming With BOTOX

BOTOX for jaw slimming is medically known as masseter reduction with BOTOX (referring to the muscle that plays a major role in the chewing of solid foods). Can it really change the shape of your face? Well, yes, temporarily. It can even set the stage for a permanent change.

Before & After BOTOX® Cosmetic Case 163 View #1 View in San Jose, CA
Before & After Jawline Slimming With BOTOX

Keep in mind, however, that BOTOX is not a treatment for a squared jawline caused by aging, gravity, and skin laxity. This type of face broadening is more suitably addressed with facelift surgery.

How Does Masseter Reduction With BOTOX Work?

BOTOX and other neurotoxins work by stopping the nerves that cause muscles to contract. (You can learn more about BOTOX on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons‘ site.)

If you flex your bicep, you’ll notice that it appears much more distinct than when it is relaxed. You also have muscles all over your face; the most prominent ones are involved in the action of chewing. Many people are just born with more prominent jaws. And people with moderate jaws may develop a more prominent, or larger-appearing jaw, due to overall physical changes over time, and to a lesser degree, daily habits. Patients who are disturbed by this type of jaw prominence often complain of a “flared” look at the bottom of the face.

Can BOTOX Really Improve the Jawline?

Yes, carefully placed injections of BOTOX will relax the jaw muscle (the masseter muscle) to a degree.  Patients are still able to chew, of course, but the degree to which they’re able to clench is diminished, allowing the muscle to rest and settle down.

When the jaw muscle relaxes (similar to the example of the flexed bicep), the appearance of the tissue around the jaw area also changes.  In many cases, there is a noticeable reduction in the size of the jaw area. It will appear smoother and less prominent. The angle of the jaw may appear altered; a sharp square angle can be softened. As a result, in many cases, the shape of the face does change to one with a gentler angle and a more oval appearance.

Note: Jaw reduction with BOTOX is effective and commonly performed.  To date, however, it is still considered an “off-label” use of BOTOX—treatments that are not yet officially approved by the FDA—but are under study.

How Much BOTOX Do You Need for Masseter Reduction?

One study found that 48 to 72 units provided effective results. Still, the amount of BOTOX required for masseter reduction varies based on several factors.

  • The initial size and strength of the masseter muscle play a pivotal role. Individuals with a more prominent or hypertrophic masseter may require a higher dose.
  • Age can also be influential, as older muscles may react differently to BOTOX than younger ones.
  • Gender differences, where men usually possess thicker masseter muscles compared to women, can also determine the dose needed.
  • Genetic predisposition and habitual behaviors, such as frequent clenching or grinding of teeth (bruxism), can affect muscle size and responsiveness to BOTOX.
  • The desired extent of reduction and individual variability in response to BOTOX will also play a role.

A skilled injector will evaluate these factors and determine the optimal dosage for your desired results.

How Long Does BOTOX Last?

As with most BOTOX treatments, the results are temporary and may need to be repeated every 3 to 6 months to maintain the results. Over a period of time though, the affected muscles may shrink, displaying an actual reduction in bulk or size. After a number of treatments, the muscles may relax to a point where fewer treatments will be needed in the future.

We offer more tips and facts about BOTOX in a related blog post.

It should also be noted that the results of face slimming, or jaw reduction with BOTOX, should not be compared with surgical reductions of the face and jawline. Those are much more complex procedures that produce permanent results.

Taking the Next Step

Many patients are now choosing to undergo injection treatments to get a slimmer jaw, either as a trial run for further procedures, or as a treatment that’s simple and meets their cosmetic goals on its own. 

Browse through our BOTOX before-and-after photos to see how BOTOX can improve your jawline, rejuvenate your face, and enhance your appearance. If you’re ready to explore your masseter reduction options, call us at (408) 356-4241 or use our online form to request a consultation.

 

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