Lower face reshaping

Masseter reduction and lower face reshaping

Most Asian patients seek aesthetic lower face narrowing as they generally have an ovoid face. For patients with muscular hypertrophy rather than mandibular bony prominence as the source of lower face widening, treatment with a muscle relaxant is usually recommended as it is a less invasive approach. This is an effective method for masseter reduction and at the same time aesthetically narrows the lower face. This is growing in popularity for those looking to narrow the jawline, resulting in a more feminine look. The anti-wrinkle injection we use relaxes the jawline, and the procedure is perfect for females who have a wide or square jaw and don’t want to go through jaw reduction.

Patients presenting with a wider lower face will be evaluated for their suitability for this treatment. They will be asked to clench their jaws to define areas of masseteric prominence. Those with bony mandibular prominence are not ideal candidates for this treatment.

Areas of masseteric prominence will be marked prior to the injection, usually up to about 5 injection sites per side. A 30 gauge needle will be used and usually, about 25 units injected on each side and a follow up about 4 weeks later. On follow up, some patients may require extra injections. Maximum reduction of the lower face will be seen at 1 to 2 months after injection. Patients will present for maintenance in about 6 to 8 months for maintenance injection.