Does the瘦脸针 (facial slimming injection) work?
Disease description:
Hello doctor, my friend has always been self-conscious about her round face and recently wants to get Botox injections for facial slimming. However, we don't know much about it and are unsure whether this treatment is actually effective or if it would just be a waste of money. We'd like to ask for your professional opinion—does Botox injection for slimming the face really work?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu
In general, jawline slimming injections are usually effective and are more suitable for people whose facial enlargement is caused by masseter muscle hypertrophy. It is recommended to choose a reputable hospital and a qualified physician, and to follow proper post-operative care.
The main component of slimming injections is injectable botulinum toxin type A, which acts at the neuromuscular junction to block nerve signals to the masseter muscle, causing the muscle to gradually relax and atrophy, thereby achieving a slimmer facial appearance.
The effects typically begin to appear within 1–2 weeks after injection, and the face gradually becomes slimmer over 1–3 months, with a more defined and softer facial contour. However, the effects of slimming injections are not permanent. Over time, the effect of the botulinum toxin diminishes, and the masseter muscle function gradually returns. Generally, the results can last for approximately 4–6 months. If a slim facial appearance is desired beyond this period, repeat injections may be necessary.
The effectiveness of slimming injections can also be influenced by multiple factors. For example, the injection technique of the physician must be precise—targeting the key areas of the masseter muscle in order to achieve optimal results. Individual variations in physiology can also affect the response to the injection, leading to differing outcomes. Additionally, frequent chewing of hard objects after injection may stimulate the masseter muscle and shorten the duration of the effect.
