Jaw Botox Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Treatment

Last updated: June 2025

Jaw botox (masseter botox) has become increasingly popular for both medical and cosmetic purposes, from treating teeth grinding to achieving a slimmer facial profile. While this treatment is generally considered safe, understanding the potential side effects is crucial for making an informed decision.

The masseter muscle is located in the cheek area. Getting Botox in this muscle may relieve teeth grinding or jaw clenching. It can also contour your facial shape. This dual-purpose treatment has gained significant traction, particularly in Korea, where the number of tourists who visited South Korea for cosmetic procedures reached an all-time high of 605,768 in 2023 — a 144.2% increase from the previous year.

The most frequently reported side effects occur immediately after treatment and typically resolve within days:

• Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site, bruising, swelling
• Slight bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection site, typically resolving within a few days
• Mild pain or swelling at the injection site, slight bruising, or temporary headache

• Temporary jaw discomfort

• Some patients may experience changes in their bite or temporary tightness in the jaw muscles

A noticeable slimming of the jawline is usually seen within 1 to 2 weeks of a masseter Botox injection, although it may take up to 4 weeks for the full effects to be seen. This gradual onset also applies to side effects, which may develop or change during the first few weeks.

Korean dermatologists have identified a specific temporary side effect they call "peanut face" (땅콩 얼굴). This occurs when the middle part of the face temporarily appears narrower while the jaw area is still adjusting to the botox treatment, creating a peanut-like facial silhouette.

• The masseter muscle relaxes faster than surrounding facial muscles adapt

• Temporary changes in facial proportions during the adjustment period

• Usually most noticeable 2-3 weeks after treatment

Korean plastic surgeons have extensive experience with this effect because of the high volume of jaw botox procedures performed in Korea. They understand that this temporary change happens as facial muscles readjust, particularly when cheek volume decreases while the jawline is still settling into its new shape. The good news? Korean practitioners have developed specific techniques to minimize this effect and guide patients through the temporary phase.

While most side effects are mild and temporary, there are more serious complications to be aware of:

Serious complications are rare but can include facial asymmetry or unintended muscle weakness, usually temporary.

Recent research has raised important questions about repeated treatments. About 20% of bone was lost from a part of the mandible that supports the teeth while 35% was lost from the head of the mandible (the condyle). It is particularly striking that the loss was so rapid, taking place in only 4 weeks.

A longitudinal study examining repeated injections found that authors were able to document a loss of bone volume which was statistically significant in the 2-injection group. The loss was due to thinning of the bone, because the mandible as a whole did not become smaller. The authors refer to this finding as an "unwanted side effect" of multiple Botox injections of the masseter muscles.

Sleep-related bruxism is a common condition that affects 15%–40% of children and 8%–10% of adults. Traditional treatments for teeth grinding have included mouth guards, medications, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. A 2019 study found that Botox injected into the masseter muscle was more effective than traditional methods at treating bruxism.

While it's not yet FDA-approved for TMJ, some people have had good results. Talk to your doctor or dentist about your options, which may also include acupuncture or physical therapy.

Korea has become the global destination for jaw botox treatments, and there are compelling reasons why:

Korean medical centers perform tens of thousands of jaw botox procedures annually, giving practitioners expertise that's simply unavailable elsewhere. This volume of experience has led to refined techniques specifically designed for achieving the coveted V-line facial shape that's become synonymous with Korean beauty standards.

Korean practitioners have developed protocols that minimize downtime - you can immediately resume daily activities after jaw botox, with only minor precautions needed for the first few days. The procedure itself is virtually pain-free with little to no side effects, taking just minutes to complete with barely visible marks or redness.

Korean jaw botox treatments offer exceptional value. While maintaining the highest medical standards, costs are significantly lower than Western countries - making quality treatment accessible to international patients.

Korean doctors have developed specialized injection techniques that account for East Asian facial structure, reducing the likelihood of the "peanut face" effect and other complications that may be more common when Western-trained practitioners treat Asian patients.

Korean medical tourism infrastructure provides 24/7 support systems specifically designed for international patients, ensuring you're never alone if questions or concerns arise during your recovery.

Research from Korean dermatologists shows that candidates for type A botulinum toxin injection were individuals in their 40–50 years (46.1%), followed by those in their 20–30 years (33.4%), and people over 60 years of age (20.5%).

A typical dose is 20 to 30 units depending on the desired result. The amount used can affect both the effectiveness and the likelihood of side effects.

Korean medical centers have treated hundreds of thousands of international patients, creating safety protocols and expertise that's unmatched globally. Here's what this means for you:

Korean practitioners can predict and manage side effects like temporary jaw discomfort, mild swelling, and even the "peanut face" phenomenon because they've seen and successfully treated these effects thousands of times.

Korean clinics have developed specific aftercare systems that minimize side effect duration. Their patients typically experience faster recovery times and better outcomes compared to treatments performed elsewhere.

With medical tourism being a major industry in Korea, clinics maintain rigorous standards to protect their international reputation. This competitive environment ensures consistently high-quality care.

1. Experience with International Patients: How many jaw botox procedures have they performed on international patients?

2. Managing the "Peanut Face" Effect: What specific techniques do they use to minimize this temporary side effect?

3. Support During Recovery: What 24/7 support systems are available for international patients?

4. Follow-up Care: How do they monitor progress and address any concerns during the healing period?

• Unrealistic promises about zero side effects

• Lack of specific experience with international patients

• No clear protocol for managing temporary side effects

While specific aftercare instructions should come from your provider, general guidelines include:

• Avoiding strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours

• Not massaging the treated area initially

• Staying upright for several hours after treatment

• Avoiding alcohol and blood-thinning medications as advised

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain

• Signs of infection at injection sites

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

• Severe asymmetry that doesn't improve

• Any symptoms that concern you

Jaw botox can be highly effective for both medical conditions like bruxism and achieving the desired V-line facial contour. Korea's position as the global leader in this treatment means you have access to:

• Unparalleled expertise from practitioners who perform these procedures daily

• Advanced techniques developed specifically for optimal results with minimal side effects

• Comprehensive support systems designed for international patients

• Exceptional value without compromising on quality or safety

The combination of Korea's medical expertise, advanced techniques, and patient-focused care creates an environment where side effects are well-managed, recovery is optimized, and results consistently meet or exceed expectations.

While side effects are generally mild and temporary, the expertise of Korean medical professionals means you'll receive the highest standard of care throughout your treatment journey. The thousands of successful international patients who choose Korea for jaw botox treatments each year are testament to the superior outcomes achievable in this medical tourism destination.

Korean jaw botox represents the gold standard in facial contouring treatments. With proper preparation, realistic expectations, and the right Korean medical team, you can achieve the facial transformation you've been dreaming of while minimizing risks and maximizing results.

Ready to experience world-class jaw botox treatment in Korea? Our expert team connects you with Korea's leading practitioners who specialize in international patient care. Get started with a free consultation to discuss your goals and learn how Korean medical expertise can help you achieve the perfect V-line safely and effectively.