Square Jaw, Especially When Smiling - Is this a buccal fat problem or a masseter problem? (Photos_

Question

I'm in my 20s and fit. I find that my jaw is wide especially when I smile. I want to slim the width of my lower face a little bit, as it's currently very square. Is this a buccal fat problem or a masseter problem? I clench my teeth quite a bit and wear a mouthguard to help my grinding. Thank you!

Erik Peterson, MD · Answer

Hi! Dr Peterson here – thanks for your question. When the lower face looks wider, especially when smiling, it’s often related to masseter muscle hypertrophy, particularly if you clench or grind your teeth. In your case, since you already have a history of teeth grinding, it’s likely the masseters are contributing more to the square appearance than buccal fat. Masseter Botox injections can help slim the lower face over time by relaxing the muscle. Buccal fat removal is a different procedure, mainly for fullness in the midface, and is usually not the best approach for someone whose jaw width comes from muscle rather than fat. A consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon experienced in facial contouring can help you decide the safest, most effective plan.

Nick Slenkovich, MD · Answer

Hello! I’m Lauren, the aesthetic injector here at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center.  It sounds like what you're describing is likely related to masseter hypertrophy, especially since you mentioned clenching and grinding your teeth. The masseter muscles are the jaw muscles at the back of your face that can become enlarged over time due to repeated tension from clenching.  In cases like yours, fit, in your 20s, with a square or wider lower face, Botox in the masseter muscles can be a very effective, non-surgical option to help slim the jawline.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on your description — especially the fact that your jaw appears wider when smiling and you grind your teeth — this is most likely a masseter muscle issue, rather than a buccal fat concern.

Square Jaw, Especially When Smiling - Is this a buccal fat problem or a masseter problem? (Photos_

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