At Queen City Dermatology, Dr. Kristine Zitelli offers specialized masseter reduction treatments using botulinum toxin injections to create a slimmer, more contoured facial appearance. This non-surgical facial slimming procedure has gained popularity for its ability to soften a square jawline and provide facial harmony without the need for invasive surgery.
Not only provides excellent care but truly cares.
Dr. Zitelli’s Expertise in Non-Surgical Facial Slimming and Contouring
Dr. Zitelli combines her comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy with precision injection techniques to achieve natural-looking masseter reduction results. Her approach focuses on creating balanced proportions while maintaining your unique facial characteristics. By strategically targeting the masseter muscles, Dr. Zitelli can help Cincinnati patients achieve a more oval or heart-shaped facial contour.
What Is Masseter Reduction with Botulinum Toxin?
Masseter reduction is a specialized cosmetic treatment that involves injecting botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox, Dysport, or similar neurotoxins) into the masseter muscles–the powerful chewing muscles located at the angles of your jaw. When these muscles are overdeveloped or hypertrophied, they can create a square or wide-appearing lower face.
The botulinum toxin temporarily relaxes these muscles, allowing them to gradually decrease in size over time, resulting in a slimmer facial profile and more defined jawline.
Common Reasons Patients Choose Jaw Slimming Treatment
Square Jawline Concerns
Patients seeking to soften a prominent or square-shaped lower face profile
Facial Balance
Individuals wanting to create more harmony between facial features and proportions
Bruxism Relief
Patients suffering from teeth grinding or jaw clenching that enlarges masseter muscles
Non-Surgical Option
Those preferring a non-invasive alternative to traditional jawline surgical procedures
Facial Feminization
Individuals seeking more feminine facial contours and softer facial appearance
TMJ Symptom Relief
People experiencing jaw joint pain related to overactive masseter muscle tension
Dr. Zitelli’s Customized Approach to Masseter Reduction
Dr. Zitelli begins each facial slimming treatment with a thorough assessment of your facial structure, muscle development, and aesthetic goals. Unlike one-size-fits-all approaches, she carefully determines the precise injection points and appropriate dosage for your unique facial anatomy. Dr. Zitelli’s technique emphasizes strategic placement to ensure natural-looking results while preserving normal muscle function.
Is Masseter Reduction Right for You?
Ideal candidates for masseter reduction with botulinum toxin typically include:
- Individuals with overdeveloped or prominent masseter muscles
- Those who desire a slimmer, more oval facial appearance
- Patients experiencing symptoms of teeth grinding or jaw clenching
- People seeking subtle facial contouring without surgery
- Those with good overall health and realistic expectations
During your consultation, Dr. Zitelli will evaluate whether masseter reduction is appropriate for your specific concerns or if alternative treatments might better address your goals.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Masseter reduction with botulinum toxin is a quick, in-office procedure that typically takes only 10-15 minutes to complete:
- Your face will be cleansed, and the injection sites marked
- Dr. Zitelli will administer several small injections into each masseter muscle using an ultra-fine needle
- The procedure involves minimal discomfort–many patients describe a brief pinching sensation
- No anesthesia is required, though a topical numbing cream can be applied if desired
- You can return to normal activities immediately after treatment
What to Expect After Facial Slimming Treatment
Following your masseter reduction treatment:
- Slight redness or minor swelling at injection sites typically resolves within hours
- You may experience mild tenderness in the treated area for 1-2 days
- Initial muscle relaxation begins within 3-7 days
- Full slimming effects develop gradually over 4-6 weeks as the muscle naturally decreases in size
- Results typically last 3-6 months before a maintenance treatment is recommended
- Many patients notice continued improvement with regular treatments as the muscle becomes progressively smaller
Frequently Asked Questions About Masseter Reduction
Most patients report minimal discomfort during the quick injection process. The procedure is generally well-tolerated without anesthesia.
While some relaxation can be felt within days, the full facial slimming effect develops gradually over 4-6 weeks as the masseter muscle decreases in size.
When performed by an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Zitelli, masseter reduction should not impact normal chewing function. The treatment is designed to reduce excessive muscle bulk while preserving normal function.
For optimal facial slimming results, most patients benefit from maintenance treatments every 3-6 months. With regular treatments, the masseter muscles often become progressively smaller, potentially requiring less frequent sessions over time.
Yes, many patients experience relief from TMJ symptoms and teeth grinding as the treatment relaxes the overactive masseter muscles that contribute to these conditions.
Why Choose Dr. Zitelli for Botox Masseter Reduction in Cincinnati
Dr. Kristine Zitelli brings specialized expertise in facial anatomy and advanced injection techniques to every masseter reduction procedure. As a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in cosmetic treatments, she understands how to create subtle, natural-looking facial contours that enhance your unique features. Her comprehensive approach considers both the aesthetic and functional aspects of masseter muscle treatment, ensuring beautiful results that complement your overall facial harmony.
Schedule Your Non-Surgical Masseter Reduction Today
Experience the difference that expert facial slimming treatment can make. Contact Queen City Dermatology today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Zitelli and discover how masseter reduction with botulinum toxin can help you achieve a more refined, contoured facial appearance.
