Can Botox make your face slimmer?
Botox® Cosmetic is a popular injectable neuromodulator known to treat dynamic lines formed from repetitive facial movements like frowning, but it can also make your face slimmer. The jawline isn’t always the first indicator of aging, but the jaw can become wider or more square as you age. Botox is a safe, effective, minimally-invasive face-slimming procedure that can shape and contour the jawline for a more youthful appearance.
Can Botox be used to slim and contour your face?
Yes, Botox can be used to slim and contour your face by targeting the masseter muscle. The masseter muscle connects the jaw to the cheek and is one of the main muscles used when chewing. This facial muscle can become enlarged due to aging or conditions like TMJ and can alter the shape of your lower face and jawline. A precise Botox injection in the masseter muscle reduces muscle movement and helps it relax. A relaxed masseter muscle will shrink to an average size, improve your facial balance, and give your jawline a slimmer appearance.
A face-slimming Botox treatment is not the only neuromodulator with contouring capabilities. Dysport® is a Botox alternative that can create a slimmer jawline and improve contouring in the lower face. Both neuromodulators contain an active ingredient that can produce similar results, but some patients find a quicker onset with Dysport. Daxxify® is a new revolutionary neuromodulator treatment and alternative to Botox and Dysport. Daxxify can be a game-changer for patients who have tried other neuromodulators and want a longer-lasting solution. Working with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon provides patients with personalized treatment options for natural and youthful results.
Are there side effects to Botox for face slimming?
Botox for face slimming is considered a safe and effective treatment option, but there are some possible minor side effects. Patients who experience side effects can expect them to dissipate in 1-2 days. Possible side effects include:
- Bruising
- Pain or tenderness at the injection site
- Swelling
- A crooked smile
- Headache
Additional Benefits of Using Botox for Face Slimming
While Botox can create a slimmer face and a desirable V-shaped jawline, it can also help patients with other medical conditions like bruxism or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), some studies have found. Bruxism is involuntary teeth grinding or clenching that often happens at night and causes the masseter muscle to over-contract. Treating the condition by targeting the underlying conditions—the contracting muscles—can significantly relieve pain and discomfort. TMJ can coincide with bruxism and muscle spasms. Botox for face slimming can help reduce bruxism and TMJ symptoms like:
- Jaw, neck, or ear pain pain
- Headaches
- Tooth damage or sensitivity
- Range of motion in the jaw
- Jaw locking
Face slimming Botox in Charlotte, NC
Carolina Facial Plastics is proud to offer Botox for face slimming, as well as other neuromodulators. I am Jonathan Kulbersh, MD, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with a team of highly trained injection specialists providing exceptional care in our fully accredited surgery center and skin care clinic in Charlotte. Heather Bryant, MPAS, PA-C, is a board-certified and state-licensed physician assistant with advanced training and experience with neuromodulators and dermal fillers. Amanda Piligian, PA-C, is a board-certified physician assistant who utilizes her extensive training and creative vision to perform injections expertly. Courtney Whitley, FNP-C, is a board-certified nurse practitioner with more than a decade of experience with medical aesthetics and injectable treatments like Botox.
Our certified injectors stay up-to-date with the latest injection techniques, technology, and information by attending national training and conferences. Contact us to schedule a consultation with our injection specialists and learn more about Botox for face slimming.