How to Reduce the Size of Enlarged Masseter Muscles

The masseter muscle is one of the masticatory muscles. It originates from the inferior border and medial surface of the zygomatic arch and inserts onto the masseteric tuberosity and the lateral surface of the ramus of the mandible. Contraction of the masseter, temporalis, and medial pterygoid muscles elevates the mandible. The masseter is innervated by the masseteric nerve, a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V), playing a crucial role in mastication. So, how can one reduce an enlarged masseter? Below, we address this question.

How to Reduce an Enlarged Masseter

1. Botulinum Toxin Injections (“Slimming Face” Injections)

An enlarged masseter may be treated with botulinum toxin injections. These injections work by blocking neuromuscular transmission, thereby relaxing overactive muscles and temporarily paralyzing hypertrophied muscle tissue—effectively reducing the size of the masseter. This treatment significantly decreases or suppresses masseter activity, yielding noticeable results; optimal slimming effects typically become apparent approximately three months post-injection.

2. Massage

(1) Comprehensive Facial Massage Technique
Starting from the forehead to the temples, apply moderate pressure with both hands for 3–4 repetitions. Next, alternately press gently on either side of the nostrils using the middle and ring fingers, repeating 1–2 times. Then, massage both cheeks in a spiral motion—from the maxilla down to beneath the ears, through the ear region and along the alar base, finally up to the superior portion of the ears—performing this sequence twice.

(2) Chin-Lifting Massage Technique
Place all four fingers beneath the mandible, closely adhering to the chin and neck musculature. Using both thumbs, firmly push the chin muscles laterally outward as far as possible. When you feel tension in the chin muscles, release the pressure gently and return your thumbs to their starting position, then repeat the lifting motion.

3. Facial-Contouring Exercises

An enlarged masseter may also be addressed through facial-contouring exercises. Daily practice in front of a mirror—repeatedly articulating the vowels “A,” “O,” “E,” “I,” and “U” with exaggerated facial expressions—engages all facial muscles. This helps reshape facial contours, reduces jaw width, and sharpens the chin. Additionally, certain non-rub-in facial oils containing small molecular components may be used; these are readily absorbed by the skin without requiring manual massage.

4. Surgical Intervention

Surgical reduction of the masseter is another option. If non-invasive methods prove challenging, masseter reduction surgery may be considered. This procedure involves an intraoral incision, followed by surgical excision of excess masseter muscle tissue. It offers rapid and effective results. Additionally, patients are advised to avoid consuming excessively hard foods during recovery, as such foods may impede healing.

The above outlines various approaches to reducing an enlarged masseter. We hope this information proves helpful.