A square jawline is characterized by a facial structure where the lower jaw extends outward on either side, resulting in a broad or robust appearance. This is often a result of the enlargement of the masseter muscles located at the bottom of the jaw. These muscles, responsible for chewing, can grow in size due to habits such as teeth grinding (bruxism), frequent chewing, or other repetitive actions.

A square jawline is often associated with a more masculine appearance, so some women may view it as an undesirable feature while others may love it.

The primary factors contributing to a square jawline are:

• Genetics and inherent facial bone structure.
• Enlargement or excessive development of the masseter muscles due to activities such as teeth grinding, over-chewing, etc.
• Hormonal imbalances.
• Dental issues like misaligned teeth.
• Facial bone injuries or jaw fractures.

Contour jawline with Botox!

If you’re looking to soften your jawline without surgery, Botox could be the solution for you. This popular treatment is not just for smoothing wrinkles; it can also be used to slim and contour the jawline.

Botox injections into the masseter muscles can reduce their size and prominence, creating a slimmer and more defined jawline.

Botox injections target the masseter (chewing) muscles on both sides of the jaw. By doing so, these muscles are temporarily weakened and relaxed. When the masseter muscles are in a relaxed state, they appear less bulky and prominent. This results in a slimming effect on the overall jawline and lower face.

Consequently, it enhances the definition of a V-shaped jawline contour, particularly for individuals with naturally square or masculine jawlines.

Benefits of Botox jawline contouring include:

• Non-surgical and minimally invasive, meaning little downtime.
• Gradual slimming and contouring of the jawline over 2-3 months as the Botox takes effect.
• Potential reduction in teeth grinding (bruxism) by relaxing the masseter muscles.
• It provides a more heart-shaped or oval facial appearance, enhancing overall facial harmony.

1. Consultation: Discuss your goals and concerns with your provider to set realistic expectations.
2. Medical History: Be prepared to talk about your medical history, medications, and previous treatments.
3. Procedure Details: Your practitioner will explain the procedure, potential risks, required units of Botox, cost, and potential number of treatments needed.
4. Medication Adjustments: You may need to avoid certain medications or supplements that can increase bruising before treatment.

• Process: Your practitioner will carefully inject the precise amount of Botox into specific points of the masseter muscles.
• Different injection techniques are used, such as injecting at multiple points (e.g. 6 points) along the masseter muscle to ensure even distribution of Botox.
• Duration: Injections into the masseter muscles take around 10-15 minutes.
• Sensations: You may feel a pinching or stinging sensation during injections, but it’s usually well-tolerated.
• Comfort Measures: Ice or numbing cream can help minimize discomfort.

Results typically become noticeable within a few weeks and can last for 3-6 months, depending on the individual. To maintain your results, you’ll need to schedule regular touch-up treatments.

Common Side Effects:

• Pain, swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site
• Headache
• Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, body aches)
• Neck pain or muscle stiffness
• Difficulty or discomfort when swallowing
• Nausea

Effects on Surrounding Areas:

• Crooked or lopsided smile if Botox spreads to smile muscles
• Drooling or excessive drooling
• Muscle weakness in areas near the injection site

Rare But Serious Side Effects:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing if toxin spreads
• Vision problems like double vision or droopy eyelids
• Loss of bladder control
• General muscle weakness throughout the body
• Allergic reactions like rash, itching, swelling of face/lips/throat

Most side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few days to weeks. However, immediate medical attention is necessary for signs of toxin spread, allergic reaction, or breathing/swallowing difficulties. Proper injection technique by an experienced practitioner and following post-treatment precautions can help minimize risks.

Botox jawline contouring is a safe and effective way to achieve a more sculpted jawline without surgery. If you’re interested in this treatment, be sure to consult with a qualified injector. You can also book an appointment at our clinic to discuss your options and determine if it’s right for you.

Kwon, KH., Shin, K.S., Yeon, S.H. et al. Application of botulinum toxin in maxillofacial field: part I. Bruxism and square jaw. Maxillofac Plast Reconstr Surg 41, 38 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40902-019-0218-0

Rathod NN, John RS. Botulinum Toxin Injection for Masseteric Hypertrophy Using 6 Point Injection Technique – A Case Report. Proposal of a Clinical Technique to Quantify Prognosis. Clin Cosmet Investig Dent. 2023 Mar 21;15:45-49. doi: 10.2147/CCIDE.S396057. PMID: 36974260; PMCID: PMC10039629.

Beautox Bar. Square Jawline and Facial Slimming: A Guide. https://beautoxbar.com.au/square-jawline-and-facial-slimming/.

London Lip Clinic. Masseter Botox: About the Procedure and Safety. https://www.londonlipclinic.co.uk/treatments/masseter-botox-about-procedure-safety.

Healthline. Masseter Botox: What You Need to Know. https://www.healthline.com/health/masseter-botox#procedure.