Masseter Botox: What to Expect & Why It’s More Than Just a Jawline Treatment
Botox is well known for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles—but did you know it can also treat jaw tension, pain, and even slim the face? Masseter Botox targets the masseter muscles, which are located on either side of your jaw and can become overworked from clenching or grinding (often due to TMJ or bruxism). Whether you’re looking for pain relief or a more contoured jawline, Masseter Botox is a quick, non-surgical solution with big benefits—including facial slimming.
What Is TMJ and Why Does It Hurt?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. TMJ dysfunction can result from stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, arthritis, or trauma—and often causes:
Jaw pain or tightness
Headaches
Earaches
Clicking or popping when chewing
Enlarged or bulky jaw muscles
When the masseter muscles are constantly overworked, they not only cause pain, but can also make the lower face look wider or more square—especially in women. That’s where Botox steps in to offer both functional relief and aesthetic enhancement.
How Masseter Botox Works
Botox (or other neuromodulators like Jeuveau or Dysport) is injected directly into the masseter muscles to temporarily relax them. This reduces clenching and grinding, gives your jaw muscles a break, and allows the muscle to shrink over time. Many clients experience:
Reduced jaw tension
Fewer TMJ-related headaches
Less night-time grinding
A more sculpted, V-shaped jawline over time
Yes, Masseter Botox can slim the face by softening and shrinking the muscle, making it a popular treatment for clients who want a subtler, more feminine facial contour.
How Many Units Will I Need?
The number of units used depends on your muscle strength, face shape, and goals. On average, most clients need 20–30 units per side, though it can range from 15–40 units per side depending on individual anatomy. Your injector will assess your jaw movement and muscle bulk to determine the right dose.
How Long Does It Last?
Results from Masseter Botox typically:
Begin to appear within 5–10 days
Peak around 4–6 weeks
Last for 3–6 months
With consistent treatments, the masseter muscles can shrink further over time, leading to longer-lasting relief and a more defined jawline.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
Masseter Botox is quick and virtually painless:
The treatment takes about 10–15 minutes
Feels like a few small pinches or pressure
No anesthesia needed
No downtime—most people return to daily activities immediately
Aftercare is minimal: avoid massaging the area, stay upright for a few hours, and skip strenuous workouts for the rest of the day.
Why Clients Love It at Core Aesthetic
At Core Aesthetic, we customize every Masseter Botox treatment to balance pain relief with aesthetic enhancement. Whether you're here for TMJ symptoms, teeth grinding, or a more contoured facial shape, our skilled injectors tailor each session to your unique anatomy and goals.
Clients love this treatment because it’s fast, effective, and transformative—relieving years of discomfort while delivering a slimmer, more defined look.