In our NY office, we see many patients, particularly of Asian descent, who are interested in reducing the prominence of the jawline. Our goal is to provide these patients with safe, effective options that can give them the facial contours they desire.
Patients of any ethnic descent with an enlarged jawline may be interested in a more feminine or slender profile. This process can be accomplished in two ways.
Surgical Option: Jaw Shaving
This procedure actually reduces the size of the jaw, thus making it appear near the back of the jawbone. Done under general anesthesia, the incisions are made inside the mouth so that there are no visible scars. The prominent areas of the bone are reduced from the back to the front to achieve a narrow and rounded contour. The incisions are then closed with dissolving sutures.
Recovery can take several weeks up to a few months. The swelling and bruising will be the most visible several days after the procedure. Swelling may continue for weeks. Other side effects can include temporary numbness. While most patients can return to normal activities about a week after the procedure, strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided for up to a month.
Non-surgical option: Botox
Another method for reducing the appearance of the jawline is using Botox injections. Over time, the Botox injections can weaken the muscles, causing atrophy and an overall reduction in size. The injections can be targeted to the area where the muscle connects to the bone, to help results last longer. Although effective, Botox is temporary and it will require maintenance appointments. Over time, most patients need fewer units of Botox in subsequent appointments to maintain the desired appearance.
Researching and deciding which procedure is right for you may seem overwhelming, which is why we recommend that all patients visit us for a consultation. During this appointment, we can evaluate your face, discuss your desired results, and help you decide which method of jaw thinning will work best for you. If you would like more information or you want to schedule this consultation, contact us in our NY office (212) 734-4488.
