Masseter Botox in Korea: V-Line Jaw Slimming Guide, Prices & Results 2025
Dreaming of a slim, elegant V-line face without going under the knife? Masseter Botox (known as "사각턱 보톡스" in Korean) is one of Korea's most popular non-surgical facial contouring treatments. This comprehensive guide covers everything international visitors need to know about getting jaw slimming Botox in Seoul, from prices and brands to results and recovery.
What Is Masseter Botox and How Does It Work?
Masseter Botox is a non-surgical treatment that slims the lower face by relaxing the masseter muscles (the jaw muscles used for chewing). When botulinum toxin is injected into these muscles, it temporarily reduces their activity, causing them to gradually shrink in size over the following weeks.
This treatment is particularly effective for people whose square jaw appearance comes from overdeveloped masseter muscles rather than bone structure. When you clench your teeth, if you feel a hard, bulging muscle from below your ear to your jaw, you are an excellent candidate for this procedure.
Key Benefits:
- Creates a slimmer, more V-shaped facial profile
- Non-surgical with minimal downtime
- Results look natural and gradual
- Can also help with teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Treatment takes only 5-10 minutes
Masseter Botox Prices in Korea 2025
One of the biggest advantages of getting masseter Botox in Korea is the competitive pricing. Here is the current price breakdown:
| Brand Type | Price Range (KRW) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Korean Brands (Nabota, Meditoxin) | 50,000 - 100,000 | $35 - $70 |
| Premium Imported (Botox, Xeomin) | 100,000 - 200,000 | $70 - $140 |
| Average Price | ~80,000 | ~$55 |
Price factors to consider:
- Standard treatment requires 50-100 units depending on muscle size
- Most clinics price based on 50 units as standard
- Premium brands cost more but may last longer
- First-time patients often receive promotional pricing
According to Korean medical platforms, the average price for jaw Botox is around 32,365 KRW ($23) for basic packages, with premium treatments reaching up to 200,000 KRW ($140).
Botox Brand Comparison: Which Should You Choose?
Korea offers a wide variety of botulinum toxin brands. Here is how they compare:
Allergan Botox (USA)
- Origin: United States
- Duration: 4-6 months
- Best for: Those wanting the most established brand with extensive clinical data
- Price: Premium
Xeomin (Germany)
- Origin: Germany (Merz)
- Duration: 4-6 months
- Best for: Patients concerned about developing resistance; contains no complex proteins
- Price: Premium
Dysport (UK)
- Origin: United Kingdom (Ipsen)
- Duration: 3-5 months
- Best for: Larger muscle areas due to wider diffusion
- Price: Mid-range to premium
Nabota (Korea)
- Origin: South Korea (Daewoong)
- Duration: 3-6 months
- Best for: Budget-conscious patients wanting FDA-approved quality
- Price: Affordable
Meditoxin (Korea)
- Origin: South Korea (Medytox)
- Duration: 3-5 months
- Best for: Value seekers wanting proven Korean technology
- Price: Most affordable
Expert Tip: If you are concerned about developing resistance from repeated treatments, German Xeomin is recommended as it contains no complex proteins that can trigger antibody formation.
The Treatment Process: What to Expect
Before Your Appointment
- Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen) for 1 week
- No alcohol for 24 hours before treatment
- Come with a clean face, no makeup on the jaw area
During the Procedure
- Consultation (10-15 minutes): Doctor assesses your jaw muscles and discusses your goals
- Marking (2-3 minutes): Injection points are marked on the masseter muscles
- Numbing (Optional): Topical anesthetic cream may be applied
- Injection (5-10 minutes): Multiple small injections are administered into each masseter muscle
- Aftercare instructions (5 minutes): You will receive guidelines for optimal results
The entire visit typically takes 30-45 minutes, and you can return to normal activities immediately.
Units Required
- Mild square jaw: 25-30 units per side (50-60 total)
- Moderate square jaw: 30-40 units per side (60-80 total)
- Severe square jaw: 40-50 units per side (80-100 total)
Results Timeline: When Will You See Changes?
Masseter Botox results are not immediate. Here is what to expect:
| Timeframe | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Day 1-7 | No visible change; you may feel slight weakness when chewing |
| Week 2 | Muscle activity begins to decrease noticeably |
| Week 4-6 | Visible slimming begins; jaw feels softer |
| Month 2-3 | Maximum results achieved; V-line appearance is most prominent |
| Month 6-8 | Effects gradually wear off; muscle returns to original size |
Clinical data shows: Among 3,301 patients surveyed, 46% noticed effects immediately after treatment, 38% saw results within one week, and 17% experienced changes within one month.
How Long Does Masseter Botox Last?
A single treatment typically lasts 6-8 months, though this varies based on:
- Individual metabolism
- Muscle size and strength
- Chewing habits (gum, tough foods)
- Botox brand used
Maintenance schedule:
- First year: Treatments every 4-6 months
- After repeated treatments: Interval may extend to 8-12 months
- Long-term: Muscle atrophy means less frequent treatments needed
Post-Treatment Care and Precautions
Do's:
- Stay upright for 4 hours after treatment
- Gently exercise your jaw muscles (chewing motion) for the first hour
- Return for follow-up if needed after 2 weeks
Don'ts:
- No tough foods for 1 week (avoid gum, squid, beef jerky)
- No alcohol for 2-3 days
- No heat exposure for 1 week (saunas, hot yoga, steam rooms)
- No facial massages for 2 weeks
- No lying on your side for several hours after treatment
Potential Side Effects
Masseter Botox is generally very safe, but possible side effects include:
Common (temporary):
- Mild bruising at injection sites
- Slight swelling for 1-2 days
- Temporary weakness when chewing hard foods
Rare:
- Asymmetrical smile (resolves in weeks)
- Uneven results (can be corrected with touch-up)
- Temporary difficulty chewing
Very rare:
- Sagging cheeks (from over-treatment)
- Spread to nearby facial muscles
All side effects are temporary and typically resolve within 2-4 weeks.
Best Clinics for Masseter Botox in Seoul
Gangnam Area
The Gangnam district is Korea's medical tourism hub with hundreds of clinics offering jaw Botox. Look for clinics that:
- Have English-speaking staff
- Specialize in facial contouring
- Offer consultations before treatment
- Use authentic, branded products
Popular Clinic Chains
- Tox & Fill: Multiple locations throughout Seoul; known for competitive pricing on toxin treatments
- Oracle Dermatology: Premium chain with experienced injectors
- ID Hospital: Popular with international patients; comprehensive V-line packages
Frequently Asked Questions
Is masseter Botox painful?
Most patients describe it as mild discomfort rather than pain. The needles are very fine, and treatment takes only 5-10 minutes. Numbing cream is available if you are sensitive.
Can I eat normally after treatment?
You can eat immediately after, but stick to soft foods for the first week. Avoid gum, chewy meats, and hard foods to maximize results.
Will my face look unnatural?
No. Because the muscle shrinks gradually over weeks, the change looks completely natural. Friends may notice you look slimmer but will not be able to pinpoint why.
How many treatments do I need?
Most patients need 2-3 initial treatments (4-6 months apart) to achieve their desired results. After that, maintenance treatments every 6-12 months are sufficient.
Is masseter Botox safe for tourists?
Yes, it is an excellent treatment for medical tourists because:
- No recovery time needed
- Results develop after you return home
- No follow-up visit required
- Very low risk of complications
Can I combine this with other treatments?
Yes. Popular combinations include:
- Chin filler (for more V-line definition)
- Cheek filler (to balance proportions)
- Skin boosters (for overall skin quality)
What if I have TMJ or grind my teeth?
Masseter Botox can actually help with these conditions. Many patients report reduced jaw pain and teeth grinding as a bonus benefit.
Who Is NOT a Good Candidate?
Masseter Botox may not be suitable if:
- Your square jaw is primarily from bone structure (jaw surgery may be needed)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have neuromuscular disorders
- You have had allergic reactions to botulinum toxin
- You have infection at the injection site
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Masseter Botox is a medical procedure that should only be performed by licensed healthcare professionals. Results vary by individual, and all medical procedures carry some risk. Always consult with a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any treatment.
The prices and information in this guide are based on 2025 data and may change. We recommend contacting clinics directly for current pricing and availability.
Final Thoughts
Masseter Botox in Korea offers an affordable, effective way to achieve the coveted V-line face shape without surgery. With prices starting as low as $35-70 for Korean brands and $70-140 for premium imported options, it is no wonder that thousands of international visitors add this treatment to their Seoul itinerary.
The key to great results is choosing a reputable clinic with experienced injectors, following aftercare instructions carefully, and having realistic expectations about the gradual timeline of results. Within 2-3 months, you will be enjoying a slimmer, more contoured jawline that looks completely natural.
Ready to start your V-line journey? Book a consultation at a Seoul clinic and take the first step toward your facial contouring goals.
Last updated: February 2025