Masseter Muscle Reduction in New York City

Jaw slimming focuses on reducing muscle bulk rather than bone, helping soften facial width while preserving natural movement and chewing function.

Reducing Jaw Bulk Can Create a Softer Facial Silhouette

For some patients, a wide or square lower face is influenced not only by bone structure but also by enlarged jaw muscles. The masseter muscles sit at the back of the jaw and play a role in chewing and clenching. When these muscles are overdeveloped, they can create a heavier, more angular appearance.

At FFSNYC, masseter muscle reduction is approached as a thoughtful, patient-centered option to refine the lower face while preserving natural function.

What Is Masseter Muscle Reduction?

Masseter muscle reduction is a facial feminization procedure that decreases the size or activity of the masseter muscles to create a slimmer, more tapered jawline. This can be achieved through surgical reduction or, in select cases, targeted injectable treatments. The goal is to reduce jaw width caused by muscle bulk rather than bone, supporting a softer and more feminine facial contour.

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Why Choose FFSNYC?

Jaw width is not always caused by bone alone. FFSNYC places strong emphasis on identifying whether muscle hypertrophy, bone structure, or both are contributing to lower face bulk. This distinction allows our team to recommend masseter muscle reduction only when appropriate, avoiding unnecessary bone surgery.

Whether using surgical or non-surgical techniques, our approach prioritizes facial balance, preserved function, and results that evolve naturally over time. Our multidisciplinary, team-based care team includes board-certified plastic surgeons and facial plastic surgeons who collaborate closely to evaluate both skeletal and muscular contributors to facial shape. With more than 400 gender affirming surgeries performed each year, FFSNYC emphasizes individualized planning, natural outcomes, and patient safety.

A Personalized Approach to Jaw Slimming

Evaluating Muscle Versus Bone Contribution

The first step in masseter muscle reduction is determining whether jaw width is driven primarily by muscle size, bone structure, or a combination of both. Through physical examination and imaging when appropriate, the surgical team assesses masseter hypertrophy, chewing patterns, and facial proportions. This evaluation ensures that muscle reduction is the right approach for your goals.

Surgical Masseter Muscle Reduction

In cases where muscle bulk is significant, surgical reduction may be recommended. This approach involves carefully reducing a portion of the masseter muscle to decrease width and soften the jawline. The procedure is performed with precision to preserve normal jaw function while achieving a more feminine contour. Surgical reduction offers long-lasting results for patients with pronounced muscle hypertrophy.

Non-Surgical Muscle Reduction Options

For some patients, injectable treatments may be used to reduce masseter muscle activity over time. These treatments relax the muscle, allowing it to gradually decrease in size. While not permanent, this option can be helpful for patients seeking a less invasive approach or as a diagnostic step before surgery. Your care team will discuss whether non-surgical treatment is appropriate based on your anatomy and goals.

Combining Muscle Reduction With Jaw Contouring

Masseter muscle reduction in NYC is often performed alongside jawbone contouring or chin reduction when both muscle and bone contribute to jaw width. Addressing these elements together allows for a more balanced and cohesive result. Treating the lower face as a unified structure helps avoid uneven slimming or incomplete feminization.

Recovery After Masseter Muscle Reduction

Recovery depends on whether the procedure is surgical or non-surgical. After surgical masseter reduction, patients may experience swelling, tenderness, and mild stiffness in the jaw during the first one to two weeks. A soft diet may be recommended initially to reduce strain during healing.

Most patients return to light daily activities within one to two weeks. With injectable treatments, downtime is minimal, and patients typically resume normal activities within a day. FFSNYC provides detailed postoperative instructions, scheduled follow-up visits, and direct access to the care team throughout recovery.

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Results and Long-Term Outcomes

Results from a NYC masseter muscle reduction develop gradually as swelling resolves and muscle size decreases. Patients often notice a slimmer lower face and softer jawline over several weeks to months.

Surgical reduction offers long-lasting changes, while injectable treatments require maintenance over time. The goal is a refined jaw contour that complements the cheeks, chin, and neck, supporting feminine facial proportions without appearing artificial or overtreated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my jaw width is caused by muscle or bone?

A detailed evaluation by the surgical team helps determine whether masseter muscle size, bone structure, or both are contributing to jaw width.

Will reducing the masseter muscles affect chewing?

When performed carefully, masseter muscle reduction preserves normal chewing function. Temporary stiffness may occur during early healing.

Is masseter muscle reduction permanent?

Surgical reduction provides long-lasting results. Injectable treatments are temporary and require repeat sessions to maintain effects.

Can this procedure be combined with other facial feminization surgeries?

Yes. It is commonly combined with jaw contouring, chin reduction, or neck contouring for balanced lower face feminization.

Is masseter muscle reduction covered by insurance?

FFSNYC works with commercial insurance providers, and coverage may be available when procedures are considered medically necessary.

Schedule Your Consultation for Masseter Muscle Reduction in New York City

Learn whether masseter muscle reduction is right for your facial feminization plan with a personalized consultation focused on balance, comfort, and long-term results.

Patients considering masseter muscle reduction in NYC are encouraged to connect with FFSNYC to discuss individualized planning, expert care, and affirming support designed to create a softer, more aligned lower facial profile.