Jawline Reduction

Jawline Reduction: A New Technique For Facial Reshaping with Botox

While a strong, square jawline can be distinctly masculine and desirable in male patients, many female patients are seeking softer more feminine shape to their face. Particularly in Asian females, changing the shape of the face from square to a more sought after oval shape, or inverted triangle.

Jaw reduction surgery used to be the only option for many patients. However, patients had long recovery times, inconsistent and unnatural results. Now Botox has revolutionized facial reshaping. Botox allows for changing the shape of the face without a scalpel, pain, swelling and zero downtime.

Jaw reduction is a specialized technique to reduce the width of the jawline changing an overly square jawline to a more attractive oval or heart shaped face. In some patients, the the masseter muscle, a chewing muscle, is enlarged creating extra facial width. Botox selectively weakens this muscle over time leading to an overall reduction in the size of this muscle. Dr. Kam’s technique of injection makes this a pain free and bruise free experience. Many patients come on lunch breaks to have this procedure done and are able to return to the office immediately after. Patients typically notice softening of the masseter muscle at one week and softening of the jawline at 6 weeks. Some researchers have noticed “permanent changes” to the jawline after 2-3 treatments. However, it is reasonable for patients to expect long term benefit but not permanent changes.

Finally, some personal habits can be directly attributed to your enlarged jaw muscles (the masseter). Excessive gum chewing, chewing hard items like ice or tougher meats, all can lead to an enlarged masseter muscle. Stress can lead to bruxism (grinding your teeth at night) which can enlarge your masseter as well.

Botox and Dysport are used as an alternative treatment for TMJ (temporo-mandibular joint) disorders and associated jaw tension and pain. When injected into facial muscles afflicted with soreness and discomfort, Botox/Dysport relieves TMJ and jaw tension for many patients. The injections often eliminate headaches resulting from teeth grinding, and, in cases of severe stress, can even minimize lock jaw. Although using Botox/Dysport treatment for these conditions is presently experimental; evidence indicates that it can be extremely effective.