V-Line Jaw Botox in Korea: Complete Guide to Masseter Reduction
If you have ever admired the slim, tapered jawlines so popular in Korean beauty culture, you have likely heard of V-line jaw Botox. Officially known as masseter Botox or square jaw Botox (사각턱 보톡스), this non-surgical procedure is one of the most sought-after treatments among both locals and international visitors in Seoul. It works by relaxing the masseter (chewing) muscles to create a slimmer, more V-shaped facial profile — all without going under the knife.
South Korea is the global epicenter for this treatment, with hundreds of clinics offering it at a fraction of Western prices. Here is everything you need to know before booking your appointment.
What Is V-Line Jaw Botox?
V-line jaw Botox involves injecting botulinum toxin directly into the masseter muscles — the large muscles on each side of your jaw that you use for chewing. When these muscles are overdeveloped (a condition called masseter hypertrophy), they give the face a wide, square appearance.
By injecting Botox into these muscles, the toxin temporarily blocks nerve signals that cause them to contract. Over several weeks, the muscles gradually shrink in size, resulting in a slimmer jawline and a more feminine V-shaped face.
Am I a Good Candidate?
A simple self-test can help you determine if this procedure is right for you: clench your teeth firmly and feel the area just below and in front of your ears. If you notice hard, bulging muscles along your jawline, your masseters are well-developed, and you are an excellent candidate for this treatment.
V-line jaw Botox works best for people whose square jaw is caused by muscle, not bone. If your jawline width is primarily due to bone structure, your doctor may recommend surgical jaw reduction instead.
How the Procedure Works
The entire treatment takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Here is what to expect:
- Consultation — Your doctor examines your jaw muscles and discusses your goals
- Marking — Injection points are marked on each side of the jaw
- Injection — Using a fine needle, Botox is injected into multiple points across each masseter muscle
- Completion — No anesthesia is typically required, though some clinics offer numbing cream
Most patients describe the sensation as a mild pinch. There is virtually no downtime — you can return to your normal activities immediately after the procedure.
How Many Units Do I Need?
The standard dose for jaw Botox is 50 units total (25 units per side), though the amount can range from 50 to 100 units depending on the size of your masseter muscles. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage during consultation. It is rare to exceed 100 units total for both sides.
Results Timeline and Duration
Do not expect overnight results — jaw Botox works gradually as the muscle atrophies:
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 2-3 days | Botox begins taking effect; muscles start to relax |
| 2-4 weeks | Jawline starts looking visibly slimmer |
| 6-8 weeks | Maximum slimming effect achieved |
| 3-6 months | Effects gradually wear off as the muscle recovers |
According to data from the Korean platform Goodoc, among 3,301 jaw Botox patients, 46% noticed results immediately, 38% saw improvement within one week, and 17% experienced changes within one month.
For long-lasting results, doctors recommend repeat treatments every 4-6 months for the first 3-5 sessions. With consistent treatments, the muscle takes longer to regrow, eventually allowing you to extend the interval between sessions.
Botox Product Types: Korean vs. Imported
One unique advantage of getting jaw Botox in Korea is the wide variety of approved botulinum toxin products. Your clinic will typically offer both domestic Korean brands and imported options.
Korean Domestic Products
| Product | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Nabota (나보타) | FDA-approved; lower risk of resistance |
| Coretox (코어톡스) | High safety profile; long-lasting effects |
| Meditoxin (메디톡신) | Natural feel; flexible dosing options |
| Innotox (이노톡스) | Liquid form; no dilution needed |
| Botulax (보툴렉스) | Fast-acting; KFDA approved |
Imported Products
| Product | Origin | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Botox Vista (Allergan) | USA | The original; most clinical data worldwide |
| Xeomin (Merz) | Germany | Purified formula; lowest resistance risk |
Which should you choose? Korean domestic products offer excellent value and are clinically proven, while imported products like Xeomin have an edge in minimizing resistance with long-term use. The actual slimming effect is comparable across all products. Your doctor can recommend the best option based on your treatment history.
V-Line Jaw Botox Prices in Seoul
One of the biggest draws for international patients is the price. Jaw Botox in Korea is dramatically cheaper than in Western countries.
Seoul Price Ranges (as of February 2026)
| Product Type | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Korean domestic (standard 50 units) | ₩50,000 - ₩200,000 | $38 - $154 |
| Promotional/event pricing | ₩15,000 - ₩50,000 | $12 - $38 |
| Imported (Allergan/Xeomin) | ₩150,000 - ₩400,000 | $115 - $308 |
How Does This Compare Internationally?
| Location | Average Price (50 units) |
|---|---|
| Seoul, Korea | $38 - $154 |
| Los Angeles, USA | $400 - $800 |
| London, UK | $350 - $700 |
| Sydney, Australia | $300 - $600 |
| Savings in Korea | 60-85% |
Prices as of February 2026. Actual costs vary by clinic, product choice, and units required. Contact clinics directly for current pricing.
The average price tracked by Goodoc across Seoul clinics is approximately ₩32,365 ($25) for promotional Korean domestic Botox, though standard pricing with consultation typically ranges from ₩100,000-200,000 ($77-$154).
Side Effects and Risks
V-line jaw Botox is considered very safe when performed by an experienced practitioner, but there are potential side effects to be aware of:
Common Side Effects
- Bruising or swelling at injection sites (resolves in 1-3 days)
- Mild soreness when chewing for the first few days
- Temporary stiffness in the jaw area
Less Common Side Effects
- Cheek hollowing — If Botox is injected too high on the masseter, the upper portion of the muscle can shrink, creating a sunken appearance in the cheeks
- Asymmetry — Uneven results if dosing is not balanced between both sides
- Facial expression changes — In rare cases, Botox can spread to nearby muscles, causing difficulty with certain expressions like raising the corners of your mouth
Resistance
Long-term Botox use carries a small risk (0.1-0.5%) of developing resistance, where the body produces antibodies against the toxin. If this occurs, switching to a product like Xeomin (which has fewer complex proteins) can help.
All side effects are temporary and typically resolve as the Botox wears off.
Post-Treatment Care
Follow these guidelines after your jaw Botox session for optimal results:
- First 2-3 hours: Avoid washing your face or applying makeup
- First 24 hours: Do not lie down flat or massage the treatment area
- First week: Avoid alcohol, saunas, hot baths, and intense exercise
- Ongoing: Minimize chewing hard or tough foods (jerky, gum, tough meats) as this can shorten the duration of results
Who should NOT get this treatment:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People with neurological conditions (such as myasthenia gravis)
- Anyone with an active infection at the injection site
Tips for International Patients in Seoul
Booking Your Appointment
- Use Korean clinic platforms like Gangnam Unni (강남언니) or Yeoshin Ticket (여신티켓) to compare prices and read reviews across 454+ clinics
- Look for foreigner-friendly clinics in Gangnam, Sinsa-dong, or Apgujeong that offer English-speaking staff
- Book a consultation first — reputable clinics will always assess your jaw muscles before recommending a specific product and dosage
What to Ask Your Doctor
- Which Botox product do you recommend for me, and why?
- How many units will I need based on my muscle size?
- What is included in the quoted price (consultation, aftercare)?
- Can I combine this with other treatments during my visit?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does jaw Botox hurt? A: Most patients describe it as a series of small pinches. The needles used are very fine, and the entire procedure takes under 15 minutes. Many Seoul clinics apply numbing cream beforehand if you are sensitive to needles.
Q: How long until I see results? A: You will start noticing a slimmer jawline within 2-4 weeks, with maximum results at 6-8 weeks. The effect lasts 3-6 months before the muscle gradually returns to its original size.
Q: Will it affect my ability to chew? A: You may experience mild difficulty chewing very hard foods for the first week or two, but normal chewing function is not significantly affected. The masseter muscle retains enough strength for everyday eating.
Q: How often should I repeat the treatment? A: Every 4-6 months for the first few sessions. With repeated treatments, the muscle takes longer to regrow, and many patients eventually extend intervals to once a year.
Q: Is it safe to get jaw Botox in Korea as a foreigner? A: Absolutely. South Korea has some of the most experienced cosmetic practitioners in the world. The key is choosing a licensed clinic with good reviews. Platforms like Gangnam Unni list verified clinics with real patient reviews and transparent pricing.
Q: Can I combine jaw Botox with other treatments? A: Yes. Many patients combine jaw Botox with chin filler (for a more defined V-line), cheek filler, or skin tightening treatments like Shurink or Ultherapy during the same visit.
Final Thoughts
V-line jaw Botox is one of the simplest yet most transformative cosmetic treatments available in Korea. With prices starting as low as $38 for Korean domestic products — compared to $400 or more in Western countries — it is easy to see why thousands of international visitors add this to their Seoul beauty itinerary every year.
The key to a great result is choosing an experienced practitioner who can assess your muscle structure and recommend the right product and dosage. Take advantage of Korea's transparent clinic comparison platforms, read real patient reviews, and always prioritize a thorough consultation over the lowest price.
Ready to achieve your ideal V-line? Start by researching clinics on platforms like Gangnam Unni or Yeoshin Ticket, and book a consultation during your next trip to Seoul.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about V-line jaw Botox (masseter reduction) treatment. It is not intended as medical advice. Individual results may vary, and all medical procedures carry some degree of risk. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any medical or cosmetic procedure. The prices and information listed are approximate and subject to change.
Last Updated: February 20, 2026 Reading Time: 7 minutes