Jaw Tension & Contouring
Jaw tension, clenching, and a wide or square lower face are often caused by the same thing — an overactive masseter muscle, frequently from teeth grinding (bruxism) or genetics. For many clients the discomfort matters as much as the shape, which is why treatment addresses both together rather than treating this as a purely cosmetic concern.
Book a Free ConsultationA relaxed, no-pressure skin assessment — there's no obligation to book treatment that day.
Understanding the cause
Muscle Overactivity
The masseter is a chewing muscle that can become enlarged from repeated clenching or grinding, especially overnight.
Bruxism & Stress
Teeth grinding, often stress-related, is one of the most common drivers of an overdeveloped masseter — with jaw tension as a frequent side effect.
Genetics Set a Baseline
Some jaw width is structural rather than muscular, which is why assessment matters before treatment.
Facts about Jaw Tension & Contouring
It's Not Always Just About Jaw Width
Many clients seek treatment primarily for jaw tension, clenching-related headaches, or teeth grinding — the slimming effect is often a welcome secondary result.
It Won't Affect Your Ability to Chew
Treatment relaxes the muscle's overactivity without impairing normal chewing function.
Results Take a Few Weeks
The muscle gradually shrinks in size over several weeks as it's used less intensely — it isn't an instant change.
It's Maintenance, Not One-and-Done
Since the treatment relaxes rather than permanently alters the muscle, repeat sessions are part of maintaining results.
Both are neuromodulator options that relax the masseter muscle — the choice comes down to your preference or how you respond.
Ultherapy®
The gold standard for nonsurgical lifting and skin tightening.
BELKYRA™ Lipodissolve
Non-surgical injectable to target and reduce under-chin fat.
BOTOX®
A botulinum toxin injectable that relaxes targeted facial muscles to soften expression lines.
Top questions about jaw tension & contouring
How long before I see a slimmer jawline?
The muscle gradually reduces in size over several weeks as treatment takes effect — not an immediate change.
Will this help with jaw clenching or teeth grinding?
Many clients see meaningful relief from clenching-related tension and headaches alongside the slimming effect.
How is this different from Botox for wrinkles?
Same category of treatment, different muscle and dosing — this targets the masseter specifically rather than expression lines.
How often do I need to repeat treatment?
Confirm typical interval with clinicians — commonly every few months as the effect gradually wears off.
Let's talk about your jawline.
Whether it's the shape or the tension bothering you, book a consultation to find out if this fits.
A relaxed, no-pressure skin assessment — there's no obligation to book treatment that day.
Book a Free ConsultationMasseter reduction and jawline contouring in Vancouver addresses more than appearance for many clients — an overactive masseter muscle from teeth grinding or clenching often comes with real jaw tension and discomfort. At Kerrisdale Skin Medical, Botox or Nuceiva injections relax the muscle, gradually slimming the lower face into a more sculpted, V-shaped jawline while easing tension. Results build over several weeks as the muscle adapts, with maintenance sessions every few months as part of an ongoing plan.
