Why botulinum toxin(BOTOX) is widely used in cosmetic procedures
Botulinum toxin(BOTOX), also called the "miracle toxin," is a neurotoxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum.
A Belgian scientist discovered this bacteria at the turn of the 20th century. But it wasn’t until the 1980s before its introduction in the medical field. Originally, it was used to control eyelid spasms; Botox is now widely used across various specialities such as modern aesthetic practices, dentistry, ophthalmology, and dermatology.
Botox works by blocking nerve signals that stimulate muscle contraction, resulting in temporary paralysis of the muscles it’s injected into.
For example, if you are concerned about your wrinkles or fine lines, Botox actually works by inactivating muscles that are responsible for overactive facial expressions.
Botox treatments have become very popular in the United Kingdom in the past two decades. For one, overall, the use of Botox is relatively safe, with rare adverse effects.
Also, unlike surgery, Botox treatments are more affordable, minimally invasive, convenient, and doesn't involve any discomfort or extended downtimes.
Masseter Hypertrophy
Many patients, especially female ones, have walked into our clinic unhappy about the appearance of their faces. The general complaint is an overly squared lower jaw that gave them a more masculine and sharper appearance.
This facial appearance can often be attributed to masseter muscle hypertrophy—enlargement of one or both masseter muscles. The exact cause for this condition is unknown but many doctors have associated it with temporomandibular joint disorder, constant chewing of gum, or excessive teeth clenching related to emotional triggers like stress or anxiety.
This condition can be diagnosed through a physical examination by a doctor or a panoramic x-ray.
The main concern with masseter hypertrophy is aesthetic due to the resulting wide square-shaped jawline. That said, some instances of enlargement of the masseter muscles can cause bruxism(painful teeth grinding) and trismus (limited range of jaw motion).
How to Reshape Your Jawline with Botox Injections
Botox can be used for a variety of cosmetic treatments, among them, reshaping the jawline. The botulinum toxin is injected through fine needles directly into the masseter muscles.
The Botox then goes on to block the nerve signals that cause the masseter muscles to contract. Then causes these jaw muscles to relax, and their activity level drops.
As a result, the hypertrophy is replaced with masseter atrophy(reduction in size in the muscle). Just like how an injury makes it difficult for you to move an arm, or lately, you have been skipping out on those bicep curls, the lack of mobility can result in muscle wasting.
Botox works under a very similar philosophy —reducing the use of the masseter muscle causes these jaw muscles to reduce in size over time.
This is a quick procedure that doesn't last more than 20 minutes. The injections may feel like tiny bite ants or pinpricks, but most patients find it tolerable. If you’re worried about pain and discomfort, we have numbing cream to make it more comfortable.
Contrary to popular belief, muscle contraction inactivation occurs within 4-5 days after the procedure. Visible slimming and enhancement of the jawline can be seen within two weeks, but full results tend to be seen around 4 to 6 weeks after the treatment.
Benefits of Botox Jaw Reduction Treatment
It offers subtle and natural results without the complications associated with surgical procedures. The treatment has no downtime so that you can return to your daily activities immediately after.
The Botox we use here at Dr Aesthetica is safe, and FDA-approved. Common side effects include bruising or redness of the treatment area. But these are temporary and usually subside on their own in a day or two.
That said, it's very important to only work with an experienced practitioner. Though considered a safe procedure, reshaping the jawline with Botox injections should only be handled by a skilled and experienced aesthetic doctor.
There have been cases of wrong technique or injections in the wrong spot resulting in adverse side effects.
Jawline Slimming Treatment Near You
If you live near Birmingham, Dr. Aesthetica offers Jawline Slimming treatments to:
- Achieve a slimmer, more defined jawline
- Create a youthful jawline
- Enhance facial contours
- Boost your confidence
Our expert procedures are quick, non surgical, provide long-lasting results, and have minimal recovery time.
Contact Dr. Aesthetica today to learn more or schedule your consultation!
