For most patients, Masseter TMJ Botox will not cause jowls when administered by a board-certified physician with a deep understanding of facial anatomy and muscle dynamics.
At Dallas Dermatology Partners, our team frequently performs Masseter Botox to treat TMJ pain, jaw clenching, and facial slimming. Although concerns about jowls can arise, especially in online spaces, the truth is that this side effect is uncommon and typically preventable when the procedure is done with precision, care, and experience.
What’s behind the concern about jowls?
Jowls refer to the sagging of skin along the jawline or lower cheeks. Some patients worry that relaxing the masseter muscles with Botox could reduce the support in that area, allowing the skin to droop. In reality, this outcome is rare, particularly in younger patients or those with good skin elasticity.
For individuals with significantly enlarged (hypertrophic) masseter muscles, especially in mature skin, a small degree of laxity may occur as the muscle reduces in size. In these cases, the masseter may have been subtly lifting the skin, and once relaxed, that support is reduced. This is most likely to affect patients whose skin has already been stretched or weakened due to age, sun damage, or volume loss.
Why technique—and experience—matter
The success of Masseter Botox depends heavily on how and where it’s placed. At Dallas Dermatology Partners, our botox in dallas treatments are always performed by board-certified dermatologists. We assess each patient’s anatomy, age, skin tone, and muscle strength to determine the most appropriate dose and injection pattern.
When done correctly, Masseter Botox helps relieve jaw tension, refine the lower face, and reduce clenching, all without compromising facial support. Our training in facial structure and aesthetics ensures safe, effective results every time.
Why does Masseter Botox cause jowls in some people?
While uncommon, jowling may result when:
- The masseter muscle has been very overdeveloped, and the skin has stretched to accommodate it
- There is significant pre-existing skin laxity due to aging or collagen loss
- Injections are placed too low or too deep, weakening nearby support structures
The likelihood of this happening is low when you’re under the care of an experienced physician injector who understands the balance between muscle function and facial support.
Do jowls from Masseter Botox go away?
Yes, if jowling does occur, it is usually mild and temporary. As the effects of Botox wear off—typically within 3 to 6 months—the muscle regains its strength, and the skin may return to its original position.
If jowling is secondary to skin laxity or aging, our physicians can create an individual plan for you to tighten those areas with modalities such as collagen-stimulating injections like Sculptra, tightening facial treatments such as Softwave, or hyaluronic acid filler injections in the jawline.
How to prevent jowls from Masseter Botox
At Dallas Dermatology Partners, preventing unwanted side effects is always our top priority. Here’s how we approach each treatment with precision:
- We personalize your plan based on your facial anatomy and skin condition
- We use conservative dosing, adjusting over time if needed
- We inject strategically, avoiding structures that contribute to facial support
- We educate patients, so you feel informed and confident in your treatment
If additional support is needed, we may suggest pairing Masseter Botox with injectables in dallas that restore volume or improve skin tone.
A balanced approach to facial contouring
Masseter Botox is a highly effective treatment for TMJ symptoms, facial asymmetry, and a square jawline. When placed with skill and intention, it enhances comfort and aesthetics—without contributing to jowls or sagging.
Our board-certified dermatologists bring over 65 years of combined experience and a deep understanding of facial aging and anatomy. Whether you’re exploring Botox for pain relief or aesthetic reasons, we tailor your care with precision, safety, and results in mind.
Considering TMJ Botox? We’ll help you feel confident every step of the way
Book a Dallas dermatology appointment to meet with our expert team and discover how Botox can help relieve tension, refine your jawline, and preserve your natural contours without unwanted side effects.
