The masseter or jaw muscles are powerful, providing the ability to chew tough and crunchy foods. They are also an important factor in the facial shape, contributing to the width of the jawline. Masseter muscles that become too large can cause a variety of issues, from a square or round facial appearance to damaging teeth if you have bruxism. At Maia Plastic Surgery in Washington, D.C., we offer masseter Botox® treatments to address a wide jaw and bruxism.

Jawline Slimming Botox Injections

A wide jawline creates a more masculine appearance, which is not always desired. A narrow jawline can achieve an oval or heart-shaped face, which can look more feminine. Masseter reduction can be achieved through surgery, but there are non-surgical options. Botox masseter reduction is a less invasive way to achieve jawline slimming.

Botox jawline slimming treatment works by relaxing the masseter muscles. The neuromodulator effects of Botox reduce muscle contractions in the jaw muscles. Like all muscles, less use will lead to size shrinkage. Within a few months, the jawline becomes slightly slimmer to create a different facial shape.

Botox Bruxism Treatment

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause extensive damage to your jaw joint and teeth. The powerful strength of the masseter muscles can exert extreme pressure on the teeth and jaw joint components. Botox injections can weaken the masseter muscles, resulting in less pressure and damage. This can relieve pain from TMJ disorders and prevent expensive dental damage.

Botox injections to relax the masseter muscles can be performed in about 15 minutes. There are very few common side effects from Botox – most patients have minor swelling or tenderness from the injections for a day or more. The effects of Botox begin within a week, reducing the masseter muscles’ strength and contractions for three to four months.

If you want to slim down your jawline or relieve symptoms of bruxism, masseter Botox injections may be the solution. To learn more about Botox masseter muscle treatment, contact us at Maia Plastic Surgery at our Chevy Chase, MD, or Tysons, VA, location to schedule a Botox consultation.