Face Slimming | Masseter Reduction

The masseter muscle, one of the primary muscles used for chewing, is located at the angle of the jaw. When overly developed, it can give the face a square or excessively full appearance. Dr. Zuckerman utilizes Botox as a musculoparalytic to carefully weaken and reduce the size of these muscles without paralyzing them. This technique helps achieve a more delicate and aesthetically pleasing facial shape, emphasizing the cheekbones and creating a subtle, sculpted look.

• Procedure Overview: The treatment involves precise injections of Botox into the masseter muscle. Dr. Zuckerman uses exact facial measurements to ensure accurate placement, drawing guidelines on the face to demarcate the target area, which is located behind a vertical line drawn straight down from the lateral corner of the eye and below a horizontal line extending from the tragus of the ear to the corner of the mouth.
• Treatment Duration: Each session typically lasts between 10 to 20 minutes.
• Number of Treatments: Most patients require three to four treatments per year to maintain the desired effect.
• Onset and Longevity: The slimming effect begins to appear about one week after treatment and can last three to four months.

To minimize the risk of bruising and ensure the best possible outcome, Dr. Zuckerman recommends:

• Avoiding NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen a couple of days before and after treatment.
• Not consuming alcohol excessively the day before and on the day of the treatment.
• Refraining from lying flat or engaging in vigorous exercise for at least 2 hours post-injection.

This Botox treatment for masseter reduction involves minimal to no downtime, allowing most patients to return to their daily activities immediately after the procedure. Some patients may experience slight bleeding or redness at the injection sites, but these minor side effects typically resolve within a few hours.

When performed by a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Zuckerman, the risks associated with this treatment are minimal. However, due to the depth and location of the masseter muscle, it is crucial that injections are precisely administered to avoid complications such as numbness or temporary paralysis of nearby facial structures.

If you’re interested in achieving a more sculpted, less angular facial profile through Botox, contact Zuckerman Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation. Dr. Zuckerman will discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate your facial structure, and design a personalized treatment plan to enhance your natural beauty.