If your jaw feels tight, looks wider than you’d like, or you’ve been grinding your teeth without noticing, Masseter Botox may be a practical solution. This non-surgical treatment helps reduce jaw tension and soften the lower face by relaxing the masseter muscles.
At San Diego Skin, Dr. Mark Mofid oversees every treatment plan to ensure precision, safety, and natural results tailored to each patient.
What Exactly Is Masseter Botox?
Masseter Botox involves injecting small doses of botulinum toxin into the masseter muscle on each side of the jaw. These muscles can grow overactive or enlarged due to chronic chewing, stress-related clenching, or nighttime teeth grinding.
Once treated, the muscle gradually relaxes. This reduces both the strength and size of the masseter, leading to a softer, slimmer jawline and relief from jaw-related tension or pain. Some patients pursue treatment for aesthetic reasons. Others seek it to address TMJ symptoms or bruxism. Often, the benefits overlap.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Masseter Botox?
Masseter Botox may be right for people who experience:
- Frequent jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)
- A square or widened lower face caused by muscle bulk
- Tension headaches or facial pain from TMJ
- Facial asymmetry related to jaw overuse
- A desire to contour the face without surgery
People who are pregnant, have certain neuromuscular conditions, or have significant jaw joint dysfunction may not be suitable candidates. A one-on-one consultation at San Diego Skin can help determine eligibility and appropriate dosage.
When Will You See Results and How Long Do They Last?
The procedure itself is quick, typically lasting around 10 to 15 minutes. Most patients can return to daily activities immediately after.
Here’s what to expect after treatment:
- Minor results may appear within one to two weeks
- Full slimming and tension relief typically appear by week four
- Effects last about three to four months, depending on muscle activity
With regular treatments, results often improve. The muscle continues to shrink and stay relaxed over time, making maintenance appointments more efficient.
Are There Any Risks?
Masseter Botox is considered low-risk when administered by trained professionals. Common side effects include mild swelling, temporary soreness, or fatigue while chewing. These symptoms usually resolve within a few days.
More serious side effects, such as asymmetrical movement or changes in your smile, are rare. These issues are often linked to improper placement or high doses. At San Diego Skin, Dr. Mofid and his experienced injector team follow conservative dosing guidelines and focus on accurate placement to help reduce these risks.
Can It Be Combined with Other Treatments?
Many patients opt to combine masseter Botox with other non-surgical treatments for more defined results. Depending on your goals, these may include:
- Morpheus8 RF Microneedling to firm the skin along the jawline or neck
- Dermal Fillers to enhance the chin or jawline structure
- Cheek or lip filler to maintain facial balance
Combination treatments are especially beneficial for patients seeking to enhance overall facial harmony, not just jaw contour.
Why Choose San Diego Skin?
San Diego Skin offers Masseter Botox treatments under the expert supervision of Dr. Mark Mofid, a double board-certified plastic surgeon and Harvard-educated Johns Hopkins faculty member. With decades of experience and a reputation for clinical precision, Dr. Mofid leads a team trained in advanced facial anatomy and conservative dosing. Patients receive physician-guided care in a medical setting. Each treatment is tailored to ensure safety, symmetry, and effective relief.
Wrapping Up
Masseter Botox is a simple, outpatient procedure that can relieve jaw discomfort and enhance facial shape. Under the care of Dr. Mark Mofid and his trusted team at San Diego Skin, patients receive safe, results-driven treatment with lasting benefits.
Slim, Soothe, and Refine with Expert Care
If you’re dealing with jaw pain, teeth grinding, or want a slimmer jawline, masseter Botox may be a worthwhile option. San Diego Skin in La Jolla offers personalized, physician-guided treatments that improve both appearance and comfort.