Masseter Botox in London — jaw clenching & subtle face slimming
A clinician-led approach to masseter muscle treatment at our South Kensington clinic in London. We focus on jaw comfort, teeth protection and, where appropriate, gentle contouring of the lower face — not dramatic “before and afters”.
How masseter Botox can help
The masseter is one of the main chewing muscles. In some people it becomes enlarged from chronic clenching, grinding or genetics. This can lead to jaw ache, morning headaches, tooth wear and a squarer jawline.
Carefully placed botulinum toxin injections can reduce overactivity in the masseter, easing strain on the jaw and teeth. Over time, the muscle may soften and appear slimmer, leading to a more tapered lower face — while still allowing you to chew and speak normally.
- Comfort first — supporting jaw function, bite comfort and headache reduction.
- Subtle contouring — gentle softening of a bulky jawline, not drastic reshaping.
- Multi-disciplinary mindset — we often recommend dental splints and physio alongside injections.
Who it may suit — and who should wait
Good candidates
People with a noticeably strong or bulky jaw from clenching or grinding; those with jaw tension or tension-type headaches; and anyone seeking a slightly softer jawline while keeping a natural look.
We may pause or advise alternatives
Very slim faces at risk of hollowing; severe dental wear needing dentist or orthodontist input first; certain neuromuscular conditions; pregnancy or breastfeeding; or where expectations are for “dramatic celebrity-style jaw shrinking”.
Combined care
Many clients benefit from a combination of dental night guards, jaw physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. Our team can coordinate with your dentist or our physiotherapy service where appropriate.
What to expect from treatment
Assessment
We examine your jaw muscles, bite, patterns of clenching and existing dental work. We also discuss your goals — comfort, face shape, or both.
Plan & treatment
If injections are appropriate, we agree a cautious dose and injection pattern. Treatment usually takes 15–20 minutes. Most clients do not need anaesthetic; numbing options can be discussed.
Follow-up & refinement
You will usually return around 4 weeks later to review comfort, chewing, symmetry and early contour changes. Any refinements are discussed at this stage.
Aftercare essentials
- Avoid vigorous chewing (e.g. tough meat, gum) for 24–48 hours after injections.
- Do not massage or apply strong pressure over the treated area on the same day.
- Remain upright for several hours after treatment, as advised by your clinician.
- Continue using any dentist-prescribed night guards unless told otherwise.
Risks & considerations
- Temporary redness, swelling or bruising at injection sites.
- Short-lived chewing fatigue or “tired” feeling in the jaw.
- Mild asymmetry or uneven response, often fine-tuned at review.
- Rarely, over-relaxation affecting chewing comfort — we minimise this risk with conservative dosing.
- All potential side-effects and warning signs are explained clearly at consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Will I still be able to chew and speak normally?
When performed cautiously by experienced clinicians, masseter Botox aims to soften excessive muscle activity while preserving everyday function. We dose conservatively and review you in person to monitor chewing comfort.
How long do results from masseter treatment last?
Everyone is different, but many people notice a softer feel to the jaw and a gentle contour change for around 4–6 months before muscle activity gradually returns. We will discuss a sensible maintenance interval for you.
Will it dramatically change my face shape?
Our approach favours subtle, harmonious results rather than dramatic reshaping. The goal is to reduce excess bulk and strain, not to leave you looking like a different person.
Is masseter Botox only for slimming, or also for clenching and grinding?
Many people seek masseter treatment because of clenching, grinding and jaw discomfort. Any aesthetic benefit is considered alongside comfort and dental protection. We will always prioritise function over purely cosmetic goals.
What is masseter Botox?
Masseter Botox refers to the use of Botox injections in the masseter muscle, which is a muscle located in the jaw area responsible for chewing and clenching the teeth. Botox is a neurotoxin that blocks the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions, which can help reduce the size and activity of the masseter muscle.
The injection of Botox into the masseter muscle can help alleviate symptoms associated with bruxism, or teeth grinding, such as jaw pain, headaches, and tooth wear. It can also be used for cosmetic purposes to create a slimmer, more contoured appearance in the jawline.
It is important to note that Botox injections should only be administered by a qualified and licensed medical professionals. The team at Santi carry over 20 years experience and are senior consultant plastic surgeons.
How long does masseter botox last?
The duration of the effect of masseter Botox injections can vary from person to person, but generally, it lasts between 3 to 6 months. After this time, the muscle gradually regains its activity, and the symptoms associated with teeth grinding or jaw clenching may return.
However, the duration of the effect can depend on various factors, such as the dose and injection technique used, individual variations in metabolism, and lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet. It is important to note that the results of Botox injections are not permanent, and repeated treatments may be necessary to maintain the desired effect.
It is recommended to consult with a qualified and licensed medical professional to discuss the potential risks, benefits, and expected duration of the effects of masseter Botox injections.
Does masseter Botox slim your face?
Yes, masseter Botox injections can help to slim the face by reducing the size and activity of the masseter muscle, which is responsible for chewing and clenching the jaw. Overactivity of the masseter muscle can lead to a square or bulky appearance of the jawline, which can be aesthetically unpleasing for some individuals.
By injecting Botox into the masseter muscle, it can temporarily weaken the muscle’s activity, leading to a reduction in its size and bulkiness. This can help create a more contoured and slimmer appearance in the jawline.
However, it is important to note that the degree of slimming effect can vary depending on the individual’s anatomy and the amount of Botox injected. It is also important to consult with a qualified and licensed medical professional who can assess your individual case and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.
Masseter Botox: A Non-Surgical Solution for Jawline Slimming
The desire for a slim and defined jawline is becoming increasingly popular among men and women alike. While many may turn to surgical options such as jawline contouring or a facelift, others are looking for non-invasive alternatives. One such solution is Masseter Botox, also known as Botox for jawline or jawline slimming. In this article, we will discuss what Masseter Botox is, how it works, and its benefits.
What is Masseter Botox?
Masseter Botox is a cosmetic treatment that involves injecting Botox into the masseter muscles on either side of the face. The masseter muscles are responsible for chewing and clenching the jaw, and when they are overdeveloped, they can create a square or bulky appearance to the jawline. By injecting Botox into the masseter muscles, the muscles are temporarily weakened, resulting in a slimmer and more defined jawline.
How Does Masseter Botox Work?
Botox, also known as botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes muscles by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions. When Botox is injected into the masseter muscles, it weakens the muscles, preventing them from contracting as strongly. Over time, this leads to a reduction in the size of the masseter muscles, resulting in a more contoured jawline.
The treatment itself typically takes 10-15 minutes and involves a series of small injections into the masseter muscles. The number of injections required will vary depending on the size of the muscles and the desired outcome. Patients can expect to see results within 4-6 weeks, with the effects lasting anywhere from 3-6 months.
What are the Benefits of Masseter Botox?
One of the primary benefits of Masseter Botox is that it provides a non-surgical solution for those looking to slim and contour their jawline. It is a quick and relatively painless procedure that can be done in-office with no downtime required. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately following the treatment.
Another benefit of Masseter Botox is that it can also help alleviate symptoms of bruxism, or teeth grinding. Bruxism can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and even damage to the teeth over time. By weakening the masseter muscles, Botox can reduce the intensity of teeth grinding and alleviate associated symptoms.
Additionally, Masseter Botox can also improve the appearance of a “gummy smile.” When the masseter muscles are overdeveloped, they can push the cheeks upward, causing the upper lip to retract and reveal more of the gum line. By reducing the size of the masseter muscles, Botox can help to minimize this effect and create a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Masseter Botox is a safe and effective way to achieve a more contoured jawline without the need for surgery. With its ability to weaken overdeveloped masseter muscles, Masseter Botox provides a non-invasive solution for jawline slimming that can also alleviate symptoms of bruxism and improve the appearance of a gummy smile. If you’re considering Masseter Botox, it’s important to consult with a qualified and experienced provider to ensure the best possible outcome.