Treatment

What is jaw Botox?

Jaw Botox, also called masseter Botox or masseter reduction, is a non-surgical way to slim a wide or square lower face. The masseter is the thick muscle at the angle of the jaw that you use to chew and clench. When it is large, often from genetics, clenching or teeth grinding, it can make the jawline look broad.

A small dose of botulinum toxin is injected into the muscle. The toxin temporarily reduces the nerve signal that tells the muscle to contract strongly. With less use, the muscle gradually decreases in bulk, softening the jaw angle into a more tapered, V-shaped contour.

Is my square jaw caused by muscle?

This is the most important question, and it is why Re:berry starts with diagnosis. A wide lower face can come from three main sources:

Muscle: the masseter bulges when you clench. This type responds well to jaw Botox.
Fat or swelling: soft fullness along the jaw or under the chin. Contouring treatments may be more suitable.
Bone: a broad mandible structure. Injections cannot change bone.

The doctor will feel the muscle while you clench and look at your face from several angles. Many people have a mix of causes, so the plan may combine approaches. Our square jaw concern page explains these types in more depth.

Who is a good candidate?

Adults with a visibly thick masseter muscle
People who clench or grind their teeth and want a slimmer look (the doctor may note possible benefits for clenching, but this is assessed individually)
Those wanting a softer jawline without surgery

Jaw Botox is generally postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and may not be suitable for people with certain neuromuscular conditions, an infection at the injection site, or a known allergy to toxin ingredients. Tell the doctor about all medications, including antibiotics and blood thinners.

What happens during the appointment?

Assessment: the doctor maps the muscle and checks symmetry, since one side is often larger.
Dose planning: the number of units per side is set according to muscle size and your goals.
Preparation: the skin is cleansed; ice or numbing cream may be offered.
Injection: a few fine-needle injections are placed into each masseter, avoiding nearby structures.
Done: most people return to normal activities right away.

The injection itself typically takes only around 10–15 minutes, though consultation adds time on a first visit.

When will I see results?

Jaw Botox is gradual. The toxin begins to take effect within a few days, but visible slimming depends on the muscle shrinking, which takes time. Many patients notice a change from about two to four weeks, with the effect becoming clearer around six to eight weeks. See how long jaw Botox takes to slim the face for a fuller timeline.

How long does it last?

Results typically last three to six months. As nerve signaling returns, the muscle gradually regains strength and size. Some patients find that with regular sessions the muscle stays smaller for longer, so intervals can sometimes be extended. Results vary by individual.

Side effects and what to watch for

Most side effects are mild and temporary:

Small bruises or tenderness at injection points
Mild chewing fatigue with tough or chewy foods for a few weeks
Temporary headache

Less commonly, toxin may affect nearby muscles and cause a temporary change in smile symmetry. Over-treatment in some people can make the cheeks look slightly hollow or the lower face appear to sag, which is why dosing is kept conservative and individualized. Contact the clinic if anything concerns you.

Aftercare tips

Do not massage or press the injection areas for the rest of the day.
Avoid lying face down, saunas and hard exercise for about 24 hours.
Limit alcohol on the day of treatment to reduce bruising risk.
Try to avoid very chewy foods, such as tough meat or gum, for the first few days if you notice fatigue.

Our Botox and filler aftercare guide has more detail.

How is jaw Botox different from wrinkle Botox?

The product family can be the same, but the goal and technique differ. Wrinkle Botox uses small doses in thin facial muscles to soften expression lines. Jaw Botox uses a larger dose placed deep in a thick chewing muscle to reduce its bulk over time. That is why the slimming effect takes weeks to appear, while wrinkle softening is usually visible within one to two weeks.

Combining jaw Botox with other treatments

Because the lower face is shaped by several layers, jaw Botox is often part of a broader plan. If there is fullness beneath the jaw, the doctor may suggest contouring such as the Berry Slim injection or ONDA. If jawline definition is softening from laxity, lifting devices may be considered. Botox for forehead or frown lines can usually be done in the same visit.

Pricing and booking in Hongdae

Pricing depends on the number of units, the product used and your overall plan, and it is confirmed in writing at consultation. Our Location & Hours page lists the address and opening hours, and you can book through the channels on our Booking page. Multilingual consultation support is available; please confirm languages when booking.

Will jaw Botox make it hard to eat?

Most people eat normally. Some notice that chewing very tough or sticky foods tires the jaw more quickly for a few weeks, because the muscle is temporarily weaker. This usually eases as you adjust. Everyday meals, including Korean dishes, are generally not a problem after treatment.

Can jaw Botox help with teeth grinding?

Relaxing the masseter may reduce clenching force for some people, and many clinics use it with this in mind. However, grinding has several causes, and dental assessment remains important. Mention clenching or grinding at consultation so the doctor can factor it into dosing and advise whether a dentist should also be involved.

Is one side of my jaw being bigger a problem?

It is very common for the masseters to differ in size, often from chewing more on one side. The doctor can adjust the dose on each side to improve balance. Asymmetry from bone structure or dental factors may not fully correct with injections, and this will be explained honestly at consultation.

What happens if I stop jaw Botox?

If you stop, the muscle gradually regains its strength and size over several months, and the jawline returns toward its original shape. There is no lasting harm from stopping. Some patients choose to pause and restart later, depending on their goals and schedule.