Would masseter Botox be able to fix heaviness on the lower face? (Photos)

Question

Recently I have concerns about how “fat” or heavy my lower face looks especially when I smile. It seems as if my chin juts out a little and the back of my face looks big because of it. I haven’t really seen anyone else with this problem so I don’t understand what’s the best way to treat it. I’m also very slim so I don’t understand why my face looks so heavy. I was wondering if masseter Botox would be able to slim it out since the heaviness is focused on the back of my face

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns. I understand how changes in facial appearance can be frustrating, especially when they feel out of proportion to the rest of your body.

From your description, it’s possible that the fullness in the lower face you're noticing could be due to hypertrophy (enlargement) of the masseter muscles, especially if the heaviness is toward the back of your face. This can sometimes give the appearance of a wider or more square-shaped jaw, even in individuals who are otherwise slim.

Masseter Botox can be a very effective, non-surgical option to help slim the lower face by reducing the size of these muscles gradually over time. This treatment is also beneficial if there is any history of jaw clenching or teeth grinding, which can contribute to masseter enlargement.

That said, I’d be happy to evaluate your specific case through a photo or consultation to determine whether masseter Botox is appropriate or if other factors (such as bone structure, buccal fat, or soft tissue volume) may be contributing to the appearance you're noticing.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

You can tell if it's your masseter muscles causing the fullness by biting your teeth and feeling the area. The masseter muscles get firm and more protruding with closing your teeth. If this feels like the problem area to you, you may wish to consider a Botox treatment for masseteric reduction. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Miller Vieira Paula, DDS · Answer

Masseter Botox can indeed help slim the lower face if the heaviness is due to hypertrophy (enlargement) of the masseter muscles, which are responsible for chewing. By relaxing these muscles, Botox can create a more streamlined and slimmer appearance to the jawline over several weeks as the muscles shrink slightly from reduced activity.
However, if the perceived heaviness is caused by other factors, such as bone structure, fat distribution, or the prominence of your chin, alternative treatments like dermal fillers, chin contouring, or even surgical options may provide better results. A consultation with a qualified aesthetic specialist will help determine the exact cause and the best treatment approach for your goals.
Best regards,Dr. Miller Vieira Paula

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Botox to the masseter muscles can help slim the jawline.  You can also consider adding Volux filler which can help give a more harmonious contour.  Keep in mind these treatments are temporary and will need repeat injections to maintain results.  See an expert injector near you to learn more.

Would masseter Botox be able to fix heaviness on the lower face? (Photos)

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