Treatment options
and downtime.
Neurotoxin
Downtime: No downtime (mild redness
or pinpoint swelling at injection site,
resolves within hours)
injectable treatments
Lower Face
Slimming
When the masseter muscles enlarge — from chronic clenching, grinding, or simply genetics — they widen and square the lower face in a way that can feel disproportionate to the patient's overall structure. Neurotoxin reduces the activity of the muscle, which over time causes it to decrease in bulk through disuse atrophy.
The slimming effect is gradual, developing over six to eight weeks as the muscle responds, and it looks natural precisely because it develops slowly. Results last four to six months before muscle activity begins to return, and with consistent retreatment many patients find the effect becomes more pronounced across multiple cycles. Dr. Martin doses conservatively — particularly for first-time patients — with careful attention to bite function and occlusion before recommending how much reduction is appropriate. His dental background makes that assessment more precise than what's typical in a purely aesthetic setting. The goal is a softer lower facial contour, not a compromised ability to chew.
What is masseter hypertrophy, and what causes it?
Masseter hypertrophy is the enlargement of the masseter muscles — the primary chewing muscles located at the sides of the jaw — resulting in a widened, squared lower facial appearance. It can be genetic, meaning some people simply have naturally larger masseters, or it can develop over time from chronic clenching, teeth grinding, or habitual jaw tension. At our practice, we assess both the aesthetic and functional dimensions of the concern — because enlarged masseters often go hand in hand with bruxism, and addressing one without considering the other misses part of the picture.
How does neurotoxin slim the lower face?
Neurotoxin reduces the activity of the masseter muscle, which over time causes the muscle to reduce in bulk through a process called disuse atrophy — the same way any muscle would shrink with reduced use. This produces a gradual softening and tapering of the lower face that becomes visible over six to eight weeks after treatment. At our practice, we're clear with patients that this is not an immediate result — the change develops slowly and subtly, which is actually part of what makes it look natural. The most dramatic results are typically seen after two or three treatment cycles.
Is this treatment safe if I already have jaw concerns or dental work?
Yes — when approached with the right assessment. Because Dr. Martin has a dental background, he evaluates bite function, occlusion, and any existing dental restorations before recommending masseter neurotoxin. In most cases, appropriately dosed masseter treatment is completely compatible with normal dental function and existing restorations. In fact, for patients with bruxism-related dental wear, reducing masseter force is actively protective. At our practice, this dual-lens evaluation is one of the things that distinguishes the care we provide from what's typically available in a purely aesthetic setting.
How long until I see results, and how often do I need to come in?
The slimming effect develops gradually over six to eight weeks as muscle atrophy progresses — most patients notice the change in photographs more than in the mirror day to day. Results typically last four to six months before muscle activity begins to return, at which point retreatment maintains the effect. With consistent treatment over multiple cycles, many patients find the results become more pronounced and longer-lasting as the muscle adapts. At our practice, we photograph the jaw at each visit to track progress objectively and help patients see the cumulative improvement over time.
Begin with a
comprehensive evaluation.
Every patient relationship begins with a thorough assessment and an open conversation. We take the time to understand your history, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. Complete the form below and one of our team members will reach out to you soon.
Before
and after.
Explore real patient transformations made possible through Dr. Gregory Martin’s comprehensive, all-in-one approach to care. Results vary by individual. These images are provided for educational purposes and do not guarantee specific outcomes.