My jaw is too square: what can I do?

Why do I have a square jaw?

A square jaw can be the result of a particularly heavy bone structure. In most cases, however, it is caused by overdevelopment of the masseter, the muscle that plays an essential part in chewing.

This hypertrophy of the masseter is seen more often in people of Asian origin, which suggests an ethnic, and therefore genetic, factor in its development. Certain dietary habits may also play a part.

Botulinum toxin for the masseter

Botox is the trade name of botulinum toxin, a natural substance produced by bacteria, which neutralises muscle activity in the area where it is injected.

To treat a square jaw, botulinum toxin is injected on both sides of the face, following a predetermined dose whose precision ensures that the muscular strength needed for chewing is preserved. The reduction in the activity of the masseter brought about by botulinum toxin reduces its volume, and so noticeably slims the jaw.

The procedure is carried out in the consulting room and is very straightforward: it is virtually painless and takes about fifteen minutes, with no need for an anaesthetic and no time away from social life. The effects are visible immediately and are at their best between 15 and 30 days after the session.
A second session may be indicated in certain cases.

As botulinum toxin is gradually and completely absorbed by the body, it is very well tolerated and its effects are temporary, lasting 6 to 8 months on average.

Maintenance sessions are therefore needed to keep the result.

Who can have Botox for an overdeveloped jaw?

The procedure is intended for all men and women who have a square jaw they wish to slim, and whose cause is hypertrophy of the masseter rather than an overdeveloped bone structure. In the latter case, a Botox injection would be of no use.

The initial consultation is therefore essential: it allows Dr Hayot to identify the origin of the shape of the jaw and to guide his patients towards a suitable solution. If the masseter is indeed responsible, the doctor then carries out a detailed morphological analysis of the patient’s face. This allows him to determine very precisely the best dose of Botox to inject, that is, the dose that will achieve the desired result without affecting chewing.

The initial consultation also allows the doctor to identify any contraindications and to answer the patient’s questions. At the end of the session, Dr Hayot gives the patient a personalised, detailed quotation.