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).

Botox can be injected in certain locations into the masseter muscles on each side of the jaw.  Over time, the muscle will atrophy and shrink in size.  Multiple treatments are recommended over the course of 8-12 months.  This treatment is very popular in Asia and can help to narrow or slim down a face that is square in the cheeks from strong or hypertrophied masseter muscles.  Make sure you go to a trained physician when injecting Botox in this area because placement is important.

First, this is an off-label use of this product and lacks FDA approval for this treatment.  Your injecting physician can still perform this service for you.  The BOTOX slightly weakens this muscle and the resulting muscle atrophy that is cause by this bit of weakness account for a reduced muscle profile making the jaw line look less full.  Treatment typically lasts 4-6 months.