Would I be able to achieve a slimmer face shape with masseter Botox? (Photo)

The short answer is: YES! You appear to have large masseter muscles overlying the back part of your jaw bone. Masseter enlargement is worsened by gum chewing and bruxism (teeth grinding). You would likely have to stop chewing gum for a long time to see results. Depending on your exam, jaw narrowing may be seen less than one week after treatment, and results last 3-6 months. The dose is generally 50-100u depending on the person. Hope this helps. Dr Joseph

For a more defined jawline to strengthen your profile (and help prevent the dreaded jawline "jowl" sagging), we use injectable fillers like Revanesse Versa - a filler known to limit swelling and give subtle, soft enhancements - or Radiesse. Using a cannula to limit pain and swelling, we inject on the bone in strategic points to get more lift and shaping, resulting in a more contoured lower face and defined, structured jawline. I would suggest getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Hello, and thank you for your question. No need for surgery to achieve a slimmer face shape. Botox injections into the masseter muscle (muscle used for chewing) will help relax the muscle by limiting its movement and preventing it from exerting too much pressure. When it relaxes, it will shrink back and in effect, improving the balance and proportions of the face. It can give your jaw a slimmer appearance and a more tapered look.

I highly recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with a reputable, skilled injector who is armed with a better knowledge of facial anatomy, as well as the most advanced injectable techniques that can achieve the most natural-looking results. During your consultation, your injector can assess your facial profile, recommend the best approach, and ensure the best possible outcome.

Thank you for your question. Chewing gum often would work the masseter muscle, causing hypertrophy just like any other muscle. Botox has been clinically shown to reduce masseter prominence, but the downside is that it has to be repeated every few months. I would start with that modality before jumping to a surgical solution unless you're 100% sure you want a slimmer jaw and want a permanent treatment. I hope that's helpful to you, and all the best.
-Dr. P

Hi Derek,
Yes, injecting Botox into the masseter muscles results in narrowing of the lower third of the face at the angle of the jawline. The treatment usually lasts for 3 to 5 months. It also helps relieve TMJ pain and teeth grinding. Stopping gum chewing will not likely help. Good luck and be well.
Dr. Persky
Encino, CA

Hello @DerekR thank you for your question. Yes If you can achieve a smaller projection of this muscle in the long term, and if combined with Radiesse you can also generate an important facial remodeling. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD FACS

Thank you for sharing your question. Stopping gum chewing and masseter botox should both provide slimming to the lower third of your face.

Hi @DerekR, Yes masseter botox could be a good option for this issue. It can help create a more oval face. Best of luck.

The best advise would be have a consultation with the cosmetic dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. It is hard to see from the pictures if the shape of the face is due to strong muscle or it is just your peculiar shape of the jaw. Botox definitely will help in case of muscle hypertrophy but would be not helpful if the shape is due to the bone. In this case, you may benefit from some facial rebalancing with fillers (for example placing filler to the chin may make face look more triangular as well as adding some to your upper cheeks may give the face more diamond shape). Good luck!

From your photo it appears you would be a good candidate for masseter Botox. This will help slim the jawline with results lasting approximately 3 to 4 months. See an experienced injector near you for treatment.