Jawline Slimming with Botox

Botox is an effective treatment for reducing a prominent or asymmetric jaw line caused by enlarged muscles. The muscles along the posterior jaw are used to chew and clench the teeth, and can become enlarged when the teeth are clenched while sleeping. The botox treatment reduces the size of the muscles injected, thereby smoothing the facial contour.

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The Skinny

avg. recovery: 1 days
permanence: Temporary
Type: Injected
surgical: No
cost: $100 - $2500

About the Procedure

Last Updated: 11.24.2020

Using botox to reduce the size of a muscle is not uncommon and can be used for enlarged jaw muscles as well as calf muscles to improve body contouring. Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles preventing contraction. By preventing contraction the muscle will cease to grow in size and will begin to atrophy, reducing its prominence. Before treatment the area will be cleansed and marked for injection. Typically, 15-50 units of botox is injected on each side of the face into the masseter muscle. This treatment should not have a major impact on biting or chewing. Patients who are interested in receiving botox to contour the jawline must be aware that the injection will only treat overactive masseter muscles and will not improve a squared jawline caused by bone structure.

The goal of jawline slimming is to reduce a prominent, disproportionate, or asymmetric jawline by weakening the masseter muscles with botox injections.

What to Expect

Botox treatment reduces the size of the jaw muscles injected, reducing prominent facial muscles and smoothing the facial contour. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after jawline slimming with Botox.

Before Treatment

No alcohol 24 hours prior
No blood thinning medications
An antiviral medication may be prescribed
Reschedule if a rash, blemish, or cold sore develops in the area

During Treatment

Skin will be cleansed and marked for injection
Botox is injected, typically 15-50 units on each side
Pressure is applied to the area

Recovery Notes

There may be a slight dull irritation when chewing following the first few days after botox injection into the masseter muscles, but this should resolve within a week. Avoid lying down in the first four hours after the procedure and avoid massaging the masseter muscles after treatment.

Ideal Candidate

Botox for jawline slimming is best for patients with enlarged jaw muscles caused by overuse of the masseter muscle.

Not Recommended For

Jawline slimming with botox is not recommended for patients with a squared jaw line that is defined by squared jaw bones as botox only affects the jaw muscle.

Side Effects

Double vision, muscle weakness, hoarse voice, and difficulty speaking are side effects that may occur after botox injection. These adverse reactions are uncommon but can last anywhere between 3-4 months or until the body naturally disposes of the botox.