The V-shape is a coveted facial contour for women, with youthful volume evident at the cheeks and a tapered line moving down to the chin. For individuals that tend to clench or grind their teeth, the masseter or jaw muscle can enlarge, causing the face shape to become square over time. If you are unhappy with your appearance due to a stronger jawline than you would like, there is now a nonsurgical treatment available to reduce the master muscles and restore a more feminine shape to the face.
What is Masseter Reduction?
Dr. Barrett performs masseter or jaw reduction treatment using Botox injections. This quick and cost-effective procedure is especially popular at Barrett Plastic Surgery, due to its ability to achieve excellent results without downtime. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Botox for use in adults ages 18 to 65. In addition to its cosmetic benefits, this drug has been used as a medical treatment for a variety of conditions for decades.
The Botox injections target the masseter muscles, which are the muscles you use to chew located at the back of the jaw. The medication temporarily freezes the muscles, rendering them less active. Not only can this process improve facial balance and change the shape of an overly square face, but it will also shrink the masseter muscle and reduce any discomfort caused by the enlarged muscle putting pressure on surrounding tissue. This can also benefit men who may not be troubled by their face shape but suffer headaches and other symptoms due to clenching or grinding.
The Right Doctor for You
Although Botox is a popular treatment that has been around for many years, it is still a medical procedure that requires precision and accurate knowledge of facial anatomy to perform correctly. Dr. Barrett has extensive experience in all types of injectable treatments, including Botox, and knows how to place injections to reap the most significant benefit. At the same time, he understands how to administer the medication to minimize side effects, ensuring a safe, comfortable and effective procedure for you.
Is Jaw Reduction Right for You?
You might consider nonsurgical jaw reduction for a variety of reasons. Some of your concerns might include:
- A protruding jawline
- Square shape to the lower face
- Dissatisfaction with your facial shape
- Abnormally large masseter muscles
- Pain due to clenching or grinding
Benefits of Jaw Reduction
While surgical jaw shaving is the only way to achieve permanent jaw reduction, there are many advantages to choosing nonsurgical jaw contouring for this issue:
- No anesthesia or associated risks
- No incisions mean no post-operative scarring
- Quick, comfortable office procedure
- Target the source of both the pain and the enlarged jawline
- Return to your schedule immediately following treatment
- Improvements typically last for many months
Botox for jaw reduction not only improves your appearance; it also reduces uncomfortable symptoms associated with an overactive masseter muscle. Dr. Barrett will take the time to assess your situation and review your medical history before recommending the best jaw reduction treatment for you.
In some cases, jaw reduction might be combined with other treatments to further enhance your outcome. For example, you can accentuate the heart shape you desire by adding dermal filler injections to the midface to provide fullness and definition to cheekbones that have lost volume over time.
Masseter Reduction Overview
Masseter reduction is performed right in Dr. Barrett’s office and typically takes 30 minutes or less to complete. Dr. Barrett will carefully target the masseter muscles during the injection process, relaxing them to restrict their movement and relieve discomfort. The muscles will shrink in the days following your procedure, with full results usually seen about two weeks after your appointment. You should notice subtle slimming in the lower face and a more attractive V-shape overall.
Botox injections are relatively safe, but side effects and complications can occur. Common side effects might include soreness and bruising at the injection site, redness, headaches, nausea, flu-like symptoms and temporary facial weakness. More serious complications are infrequent and might consist of trouble swallowing, slurred speech or breathing problems. If you experience these symptoms after your treatment, it is critical that you contact our office right away. However, keep in mind that Dr. Barrett’s extensive experience in Botox substantially reduces your risk factors, while ensuring optimal results.
After Your Masseter Reduction
Botox injections require no downtime after the procedure. Dr. Barrett recommends minimal exercise and vigorous physical activity for the first few hours after treatment to prevent the medication from spreading to other areas of the face. Keep in mind that Botox is not a permanent solution and the muscles will resume their regular activity within three to six months. To maintain your look, you will need to schedule follow-up injections with Dr. Barrett. Some patients find that by adhering to a regular treatment schedule, they can begin to extend the time between appointments over time without compromising their results.
Feminizing the Jawline
If you are troubled with your appearance due to a strong, square jawline, jaw slimming treatment options are available, and some do not require surgery. A few strategically placed Botox injections can make all the difference in reducing the size of your masseter muscle and creating a slimmer, more feminine facial profile. If you would like to learn more about this treatment, contact Barrett Plastic Surgery today at 310-598-2648.
The information about masseter or jaw reduction was reviewed by Dr. Daniel Barrett. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using our contact form below.