Jaw Contouring

Jaw contouring, also known as jaw reduction, is a type of surgery designed to narrow the lower third of the face, paying particular attention to the mandible (lower jaw) and its muscles.

There are a number of jaw reduction methods available. These include surgical and non-surgical procedures, so it’s recommended that prior to deciding which treatment to choose, you are examined by a surgeon in order to determine whether the cause of the oversized jaw is due to the bone, the masseter (muscle) or both.

Botox injection
Non-surgical procedures are limited to cases that are the result of the masseter being oversized. One of the most effective and convenient ways of treating an enlarged muscle is by utilising Botox® injections. This procedure includes Botox® being injected into the enlarged muscle in order to weaken it. The muscle then becomes smaller over a number of months. Botox® results offer no downtime with improvement seen over a number of months, however it is almost untraceable with others generally not realising a plastic surgical procedure has been performed.

Surgical reduction
Surgical techniques on the other hand are used to directly, and almost immediately, reduce the size of an enlarged mandible. An incision is either made on the inside or outside of the mouth, in order to leave no scarring on the face. A burr is then used to eliminate the outer layer of the enlarged mandible, which in turn, narrows the jaw.

Improvement is usually not seen for around two to three weeks, with peak improvement occurring between three months and nine months. Good results are still visible after one year in many patients.

Jaw contouring is also called jaw shaving. It essentially helps to soften the jaw line, transforming a person’s face and making it look more feminine.

On average, jaw contouring can cost between £1,500 and £4,000.