Jaw Botox is one of the most requested treatments in Seoul. Here is how masseter reduction slims the lower face, how long it takes to show, how long it lasts and who it does not suit.
Jaw Botox, also called masseter Botox, relaxes the bulky chewing muscle at the angle of the jaw. As the muscle shrinks over 2–4 weeks, a square lower face tapers into a softer, slimmer shape, and some people find teeth clenching eases. Treatment takes about 10 minutes with no downtime, and results last about 4–6 months. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, jaw Botox starts from ₩59,000 for both sides with a Korean toxin, up to ₩290,000 with Allergan Botox (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What is jaw Botox?
The masseter is a thick chewing muscle on each side of the jaw, just in front of the ear and above the jaw angle. In some people it is naturally large, and in others it grows bulkier from habitual clenching, grinding or chewing gum. A prominent masseter makes the lower face look wide or square, and is one of the most common reasons people in Korea seek a slimmer "V-line".
Jaw Botox injects botulinum toxin directly into the bulk of each masseter. The toxin reduces the nerve signals that make the muscle contract, so it works less hard. Like any muscle that is used less, it gradually becomes smaller. As it reduces, the outline of the lower face becomes softer and more tapered. You can read more on our jaw Botox treatment page and the square jaw concern page.
Why is masseter Botox so popular in Korea?
- Non-surgical contouring. It slims the lower face without the risks and recovery of jaw bone surgery.
- No downtime. There is nothing visible after treatment, so it fits easily into a trip.
- Gradual, natural change. The face slims over weeks, so friends usually notice you look different without knowing why.
- Possible relief from clenching. Some people who grind or clench find their jaw feels more relaxed. Botox is not a cure for bruxism, but it may reduce muscle tension.
- Affordable maintenance. Korean toxins keep the cost of repeat treatments manageable.
Is jaw Botox right for you?
Jaw Botox only slims the face if the width comes from muscle. A wide jaw caused by bone shape, fat or sagging skin will respond differently. A simple test is to clench your teeth and feel the angle of your jaw: if a firm bulge pops out, muscle is likely part of the picture.
Usually a good fit
- A square lower face with a firm muscle bulge when you clench
- Habitual clenching or grinding
- People who want a softer V-line without surgery
- Visitors looking for a no-downtime treatment
Talk to the doctor first
- Width mainly from fat, jowls or sagging skin
- Thin face or early hollowing below the cheekbones
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding or neuromuscular conditions
- Jaw joint (TMJ) problems that need dental or medical review
It also helps to think about the whole lower face. A slimmer jaw angle can make a short or receding chin look more noticeable, and in some faces a small amount of chin filler balances the profile better than a higher toxin dose. Your doctor will look at your face from the front and side before suggesting a plan, and will tell you honestly if jaw Botox is unlikely to give the change you want. If fat under the chin or along the jowls is the main issue, ask about fat-dissolving injections or compare them in jaw Botox vs fat-dissolving injection.
What happens on treatment day
- English consultation. The doctor feels the masseter while you clench, assesses its size and the rest of your lower face, and agrees the toxin, dose and price with you.
- Marking. Safe injection zones are marked on each side, staying away from the smile muscles and salivary gland.
- Injection. Several small injections are placed deep into each muscle. It feels like a firm pinch with a little pressure.
- Finish. There is usually nothing to see afterward except a few pinpoint marks.
Jaw Botox results timeline
| When | What you may notice |
|---|---|
| Days 3–10 | Chewing feels slightly weaker, especially with tough or chewy food |
| Weeks 2–4 | The muscle starts to shrink; the jawline begins to look softer |
| Weeks 6–8 | Peak slimming for most people |
| Months 4–6 | Muscle strength returns gradually; plan a repeat if you want to maintain |
Because slimming peaks after about six weeks, most visitors see the full change at home. Taking front-facing photos before treatment and again at four and eight weeks makes the change easier to judge. Many people find that after several regular sessions, the muscle stays smaller for longer between treatments. See jaw Botox results and how many units of jaw Botox you need.
Is jaw Botox safe? Side effects and risks
Masseter Botox is a routine procedure when the doctor knows the anatomy well. Most side effects are mild and temporary.
- Common: tired feeling when chewing hard or chewy foods for a few weeks; small bruises; mild tenderness.
- Less common: an uneven smile if toxin reaches the nearby smile muscles; this fades as the toxin wears off.
- Less common: a slight hollow just below the cheekbone or, after repeated high doses, a visible bulge when clenching (paradoxical bulging) that may need adjustment.
- Possible with age: in people with looser skin, a slimmer muscle can make skin laxity more noticeable along the jaw. Your doctor may suggest lifting alongside.
- Rare: allergic reaction or distant spread. Seek urgent help for any swallowing, speaking or breathing difficulty.
For a broader safety overview, see is Korean Botox safe.
How much does jaw Botox cost in Seoul (2026)?
At Dernia, every option covers both sides. The main price factor is the toxin brand; very strong muscles occasionally need a higher dose, which the doctor quotes before treatment.
| Option | What it is | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Korean toxin | Botulax or Nabota, standard dose, both sides | ₩59,000 |
| Coretox | Korean toxin, standard dose, both sides | ₩99,000 |
| Xeomin | German toxin (Merz), standard dose, both sides | ₩199,000 |
| Botox (Allergan) | The original US brand, standard dose, both sides | ₩290,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. Full details on the jaw Botox price page.
With a Korean toxin, a yearly budget of two to three sessions is about ₩118,000–₩177,000 before VAT. Many visitors pair jaw Botox with lifting in the V-Line Contour Package.
Recovery and aftercare
- First 4–6 hours: do not massage or press on your jaw, and avoid lying face-down.
- First 24 hours: skip saunas, jjimjilbang, intense exercise and heavy drinking.
- First few weeks: soft foods are easier if chewing feels tired; avoid gum to let the muscle rest.
- Night guard: if you grind at night, keep using any guard your dentist has given you.
Flying home? You can fly the same or next day. Pressure changes do not affect the toxin, and there is no swelling to worry about. More in our flying after Botox guide.
Planning jaw Botox around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Send your dates through our consultation form.
- Avoid your arrival day. Day two or three gives you time to settle in.
- Treat early if you want feedback. On a two-week trip, early treatment lets you notice chewing changes while still in Seoul.
- Getting here. Dernia is in Myeongdong, near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
- Take a record home. Ask for the brand and units in writing so your next treatment can follow the same plan.
Frequently asked questions
How long does jaw Botox take to work?
Chewing may feel slightly weaker within about a week, visible slimming begins at two to four weeks, and the effect usually peaks at six to eight weeks.
How long does masseter Botox last?
Usually about four to six months. With regular treatments, many people find the muscle stays smaller for longer.
Will jaw Botox make my face sag?
In younger people with firm skin it rarely does. In people with existing laxity, a slimmer muscle can make loose skin more noticeable, so the doctor may suggest lifting alongside.
How much is jaw Botox in Seoul?
At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong it starts from ₩59,000 for both sides with a Korean toxin, and up to ₩290,000 with Allergan Botox, excluding 10% VAT.
Does jaw Botox help with teeth grinding?
It may reduce clenching force and jaw tension for some people, but it is not a cure for bruxism. Keep seeing your dentist and use a night guard if advised.
Can I eat normally after jaw Botox?
Yes. Chewing tough or chewy food may feel more tiring for a few weeks, which is normal and settles as you adapt.
Planning jaw Botox in Seoul?
Tell us your travel dates and what you would like to change about your jawline. A doctor checks whether the width is muscle, fat or bone and confirms your plan and price in English.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.