Dr. Benjamin Clark is a cosmetic dentist with a passion for using Botox to enhance his patients' smiles. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Clark is an expert in Botox treatments for gummy smiles and other dental-related concerns. He is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest research and techniques in the field of Botox and cosmetic dentistry.
Yes, Botox can be used to make your jaw smaller without surgery. This non-surgical technique is known as masseter Botox or jawline contouring with Botox. Let me explain how it works.
The masseter muscle is the main muscle responsible for chewing. In some individuals, this muscle can become enlarged, resulting in a square or overly prominent jawline. By injecting Botox into the masseter muscle, we can relax and weaken it, leading to a slimmer and more feminine or masculine jawline, depending on your desired outcome.
The procedure is relatively quick and straightforward. After a thorough consultation to determine your goals and assess your jawline, I will administer a series of small injections into the masseter muscle. The injections are virtually painless, and most patients find them to be very tolerable. You may experience some mild swelling or bruising at the injection sites, but this typically subsides within a few days. Combining Botox with other cosmetic procedures can also lead to synergistic results.
The effects of masseter Botox are not immediate. It usually takes around 1-2 weeks for the muscle to relax and for you to start noticing a difference in the appearance of your jawline. The full results can take up to 4-6 weeks to become apparent.
The duration of the effects varies from person to person, but on average, masseter Botox can last anywhere from 3-6 months. Over time, as the muscle gradually regains strength, you may notice your jawline returning to its original shape. To maintain the desired results, regular touch-up treatments are recommended.
It's important to note that masseter Botox is not suitable for everyone. It is typically most effective for individuals with an enlarged masseter muscle due to genetics or teeth grinding. If your jawline is primarily caused by bone structure or excess fat, other treatment options may be more appropriate. Botox for TMJ is another treatment option for jaw-related issues.
Overall, masseter Botox offers a non-surgical solution for those looking to achieve a slimmer jawline. It is a safe and effective procedure that can provide noticeable results without the need for invasive surgery. If you're interested in exploring this option further, I recommend scheduling a consultation with a qualified and experienced provider who can assess your specific needs and goals.