Would masseter Botox improve my lower face? (Photo)

Question

My lower face looks bulky and asymmetric. I don’t think I have TMJ but I do clench my jaws unconsciously so I’m wondering if the bulkiness is coming from my masseters. Would masseter botox improve the aesthetic of my face or would you recommend something else?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your thoughtful question and photo.

Yes, based on the appearance of your lower face, masseter Botox could be a beneficial option. Clenching your jaw—especially unconsciously—can lead to hypertrophy (enlargement) of the masseter muscles over time, which creates a bulky or square jawline. This is a common concern and masseter Botox is a well-established solution for it.

Botox works by relaxing the overactive muscles, which in turn slims the lower face gradually over a few weeks. Many patients notice improvement in symmetry and overall facial contour with regular treatments.

If asymmetry remains even after the muscle size reduces, other complementary treatments like dermal fillers for contour correction or facial fat dissolving (e.g., Kybella) might be considered, depending on whether the bulk is due to soft tissue or fat distribution.

Overall, masseter Botox is a conservative, non-surgical first step that often delivers noticeable aesthetic improvement—especially for those who clench or grind.

David Yew, MD · Answer

Good question.    First-  asymmetry is normal and everyone has this.  Like being right handed vs left handed.   One is stronger than the other.   Please see the attached video for a good explanation.  The bulkiness in the lower part of the face can be reduced with Botox.   Please see the video on TMJ contouring as well.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. If you're noticing bulkiness and asymmetry in your lower face and suspect that clenching your jaws might be contributing, masseter Botox could be a beneficial treatment. The masseter muscles, located at the back of the jaw, can become enlarged and prominent due to habitual clenching or grinding. By injecting Botox into these muscles, you can reduce their size and activity, leading to a more contoured and balanced appearance of the lower face. This treatment not only addresses the bulkiness but can also improve overall facial symmetry. Additionally, reducing the activity of these muscles may alleviate any related discomfort from clenching. I hope this helps and best of luck!

Glenn Murray, MBBS · Answer

Hi,

Yes, Botox injections into the masseter muscles can enhance the appearance of your lower face by slimming the jawline and improving facial symmetry.
The masseter muscles are located at the back of the jaw and are responsible for chewing. When these muscles are overdeveloped, they can create a square or wide jawline. Botox temporarily relaxes these muscles, leading to a gradual reduction in their size and resulting in a more tapered, V-shaped jawline. This effect can enhance facial harmony and create a more youthful appearance.
- Onset of Results: Initial slimming effects are usually noticeable within 1 to 2 weeks, with full results appearing after about 4 weeks.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Botox injected into the masseter muscles can result in a slimming effect to the jawline.  The Botox lasts approximately three to four months and fades gradually.  See an expert injector to learn more.  I've included a video on how neuromodulators like Botox work that I hope you find helpful.

Would masseter Botox improve my lower face? (Photo)

Answers (5)

More Botox for TMJ Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (5)

More Botox for TMJ Questions

15 months post masseter Botox and still have a droopy face

Weak chin & wide face, would chin filler & masseter Botox with right providers get a result like the photo? (Photos)

Asymmetrical and wide shaped face. Would masseter Botox help make my face less wide? (Photo)

Advice? 13 months post masseter Botox & muscles still don't fully work

Can I get Botox in the geniohyoid muscle? (Photo)

Smile lines after masseter Botox (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS