How is Botox Used to Reduce the Jaw Muscle?

Botox is injected directly into the jaw muscle, known as the masseter, to relax it, softening your jawline and giving you a thinner appearance.

Botox paralyzes muscles.  When it is injected into the jaw muscle (masseter), that muscle becomes weaker and smaller.  The final effect is very natural; it will look like the lower third of your face is smaller than previously.  The effects typically last about 6+ months.  

You will notice that it is a little harder to chew chewy items such as bagels.  Those that grind their teeth or clench their jaw also notice that they don't grind/clench as strongly.

Hypertrophic, or enlarged, masseter (chewing) muscles can be reduced in size by treating with Botox. Treatments should be done by an experienced provider so that there is a symmetric result. Placing an unequal strain on the cheek muscles could put the jaw socket out of alignment thereby exacerbating or causing a sore Jaw (TMJ syndrome).