What It Is
Masseter reduction surgery is a facial contouring procedure that reduces the size of the masseter muscles, which are located at the sides of the jaw. Unlike Botox injections that temporarily weaken the muscles, surgical masseter reduction involves either partial removal or selective cutting of the muscle fibers.
This surgery is especially popular in Korea, where a slim, V-shaped facial profile is highly valued. Korean surgeons are internationally known for their expertise in facial contouring, offering advanced techniques that deliver permanent results with high precision and natural aesthetics.
Why It’s Done
Cosmetic Purposes:
- Slims a square or wide lower face caused by enlarged masseter muscles
- Creates a softer, more feminine V-line jawline
- Enhances balance between the jawline, chin, and midface
Functional Purposes:
- Reduces jaw tension in cases of masseter hypertrophy
- May relieve pain or functional issues linked to muscle overdevelopment
Patient Considerations:
- Best suited for individuals with enlarged masseter muscles rather than wide jawbones
- Often chosen by younger patients desiring permanent jaw slimming beyond Botox results
- Non-smokers and healthy patients typically achieve smoother recovery
Alternatives
- Botulinum Toxin (Masseter Botox): Weakens muscles temporarily (lasts 6–12 months)
- Mandibular Angle Reduction Surgery: Reduces the bone angle rather than muscle bulk
- Cortical Shaving: Subtle refinement of jawbone, sometimes combined with muscle surgery
- Non-Surgical Contouring: Fillers or fat grafting to balance proportions
Preparation
Patients preparing for masseter reduction surgery in Korea go through:
- Consultation: Facial assessment with 3D imaging and clinical evaluation of muscle thickness
- Health Evaluation: Bloodwork and medical history review
- Lifestyle Adjustments: No smoking, alcohol, or blood-thinning medications for several weeks before surgery
- Fasting: Required 6–8 hours before general anesthesia
How It’s Done
Type: Surgical, under general anesthesia
Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
Procedure Steps:
- Small incisions made inside the mouth (no visible scars)
- The surgeon carefully exposes the masseter muscle
- A portion of the muscle is trimmed or partially excised to reduce bulk
- The muscle edges are smoothed to maintain natural function and symmetry
- Incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches
Hospitalization: Usually 1 night for observation; some cases may be outpatient depending on the clinic
Recovery
- First Week: Swelling and mild discomfort managed with medications and cold compresses
- Diet: Soft or liquid foods recommended initially to reduce jaw strain
- Oral Care: Antiseptic rinses required for intraoral incisions
- Downtime: Most patients return to light activities in 1–2 weeks
- Final Results: Visible within 2–3 months once swelling subsides and the muscle adapts to its new size
Possible Complications
- Swelling and bruising (common during early healing)
- Temporary numbness or tightness in the jaw area
- Infection at incision sites (minimized with proper hygiene and antibiotics)
- Asymmetry if muscle removal is uneven
- Rare risk of limited chewing function if too much muscle is removed
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
Korean clinics emphasize precision through:
- 3D Imaging to assess facial symmetry
- Physical Examination to measure muscle thickness and strength
- Specialist Consultation with maxillofacial surgeons or plastic surgeons
Medical Treatments
- Botox Injections: Non-surgical alternative for temporary jaw slimming
- Physical Therapy: For patients with muscle tension but without cosmetic concerns
Surgical or Advanced Therapies
- Standard Masseter Reduction: Surgical trimming or excision of the muscle
- Combined Jawline Surgery: Performed with mandibular angle reduction or cortical shaving for maximum slimming
- Hybrid Procedures: May include genioplasty or chin reshaping for enhanced harmony
Rehabilitation and Support
- Regular post-op visits to ensure healing and symmetry
- Swelling reduction therapies like lymphatic massage offered in many Korean clinics
- International patient services: translation, concierge recovery support, and long-term monitoring
