Jawline Slimming Botox
When most people think of Botox, they immediately think of the anti-aging facial injectable that erases fine lines and wrinkles around the forehead, crow’s feet and between the eyebrows. However, it is also used to slim the jawline for both functional and cosmetic reasons. This treatment is very quick, non-invasive and a great option for people who want to look younger without going under the knife.
Jaw slimming botox is accomplished with a series of Botox injections into the masseter muscles, which are located on each side of the face. These muscles are responsible for chewing and can become tightened due to stress, teeth grinding and clenching or other reasons. This tightening can cause pain, tingling and headaches in addition to affecting the shape of the face. The injected neurotoxin blocks the nerve signals to this muscle to relax it and limit its movements. Patients can still move their jaws to eat and talk, but the muscles will be less active. This causes the muscle atrophy and the jawline to slim.
Many people who undergo masseter Botox for functional purposes, such as reducing clenching and grinding, are actually surprised to see the cosmetic benefit of their treatment. “Masseter Botox is being used more and more for a cosmetic effect,” says dual board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dara Liotta. “People will start getting it for functional reasons, and then they notice a slimmer, more feminine jaw line, which makes their teeth and cheekbones stand out more.”
Is Jawline Slimming Botox a Permanent Solution?
The slimming effects of masseter Botox can last three to six months before the muscles begin to contract again. After that, patients will need regular treatments to maintain their new slimmer jawline. This is why it is important to choose a medical cosmetic practitioner who has experience in masseter Botox for jawline slimming and other facial contouring procedures.
During your consultation, the medical cosmetic practitioner will ask you what you’re looking to achieve and determine whether or not jawline slimming is the right solution for you. It is important to understand that a wide jawline can be caused by genetics, bone structure and other factors beyond your control. Masseter Botox can reduce the size of the muscle, but it cannot shrink the bones causing your square jaw.
Once the medical cosmetic practitioner has determined that you’re a good candidate for jawline slimming Botox, they will disinfect the injection site and apply numbing cream to the area. The procedure itself is very simple, and takes only a few minutes. After the injections are completed, it’s important to massage or press on the treated area to help the neurotoxin settle and minimize any bruising or swelling. For best results, it’s recommended that you get jawline slimming Botox treatments at least every three to six months. If you’d like to learn more about jawline slimming Botox or other jawline contouring treatments, please schedule a consultation today! Our team will be happy to help you look your best.