Masseter Botox (V-Line Jaw Botox) in Korea 2025: Complete Guide to Prices, Effects & Clinics
Want that coveted Korean V-line face shape without surgery? Masseter Botox (사각턱 보톡스) is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in Korea, offering a non-surgical way to slim a square jaw and achieve a more feminine, oval face shape. With Korea's expertise in facial aesthetics and incredibly affordable prices, it's no wonder this treatment tops the list for international visitors.
What is Masseter Botox?
Masseter Botox involves injecting botulinum toxin into the masseter muscles—the large muscles on each side of your jaw used for chewing. When these muscles are overdeveloped (often from teeth grinding, clenching, or simply genetics), they create a square, angular jawline.
How It Works
- Botox is injected into the masseter muscles
- Nerve signals are blocked, reducing muscle contractions
- Muscles gradually shrink from reduced use
- Jawline slims as muscle volume decreases
- Face appears more V-shaped and feminine
Unlike jaw surgery that reshapes bone, masseter Botox targets the muscle—making it ideal for those whose square jaw is caused by muscle bulk rather than bone structure.
Am I a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates have:
- Square jaw caused by muscle, not bone
- Visible or palpable masseter muscles when clenching
- History of teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching
- Desire for a slimmer, more oval face shape
How to tell if it's muscle vs bone:
- Clench your teeth and feel your jaw
- If you feel a hard, bulging muscle → Masseter Botox can help
- If the squareness is mainly bone → Surgery may be needed
Masseter Botox Prices in Korea 2025
Korea offers the most competitive prices for masseter Botox globally, with a wide range of options from budget to premium.
Price by Botox Brand
| Botox Brand | Origin | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Korean (Nabota, Meditoxin) | Korea | ₩50,000-80,000 | $38-62 |
| Korean Premium (Botulax) | Korea | ₩80,000-120,000 | $62-92 |
| Dysport | UK/France | ₩100,000-150,000 | $77-115 |
| Xeomin | Germany | ₩120,000-180,000 | $92-138 |
| Botox (Allergan) | USA | ₩150,000-250,000 | $115-192 |
Typical Treatment Packages
| Package | Units | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (Korean brand) | 25-50 units | ₩50,000-100,000 | $38-77 |
| Standard | 50-100 units | ₩100,000-200,000 | $77-154 |
| Premium (US Botox) | 50-100 units | ₩200,000-350,000 | $154-269 |
Korea vs International Prices
| Location | Masseter Botox (USD) | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul, Korea | $40-200 | — |
| USA | $400-800 | 75-90% |
| UK | $350-600 | 70-85% |
| Australia | $400-700 | 75-85% |
| Singapore | $300-500 | 60-75% |
Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD.
Why Such a Price Range?
Price varies based on:
- Botox brand: US Botox (Allergan) costs more than Korean brands
- Unit count: Larger muscles need more units
- Clinic location: Gangnam clinics may charge more
- Doctor experience: Specialists may charge premium
What to Expect: Results Timeline
When Will You See Results?
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-7 | No visible change yet |
| Week 2 | Muscle starts to feel softer |
| Week 3-4 | Noticeable slimming begins |
| Month 1-2 | Maximum effect visible |
| Month 3-6 | Results maintained |
| Month 6-8 | Gradual return to original size |
Patient Survey Results
Based on Korean patient data (3,300+ patients):
- 46% noticed effects immediately after
- 38% saw results within one week
- 17% saw full results within one month
How Long Do Results Last?
- Single treatment: 6-8 months
- With maintenance: Can be extended indefinitely
- Recommended schedule: Every 4-5 months for consistent results
Pro tip: After 2-3 treatments, many patients find the muscle shrinks enough that they can extend intervals to 6-8 months.
The Treatment Experience
Before Your Appointment
Preparation:
- No special preparation needed
- Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, fish oil) for 1 week if possible
- Come with a clean face
- Eat normally (you can eat before and after)
During the Procedure
- Duration: 5-10 minutes total
- Anesthesia: Usually none needed (quick, minimal pain)
- Injections: 3-5 injection points per side
- Sensation: Brief pinching, very tolerable
- Immediate after: Can resume normal activities
What It Feels Like
Most patients describe it as:
- Quick pinches
- Mild discomfort lasting seconds
- Much easier than expected
- No need for numbing in most cases
Side Effects and Safety
Masseter Botox is very safe when performed by experienced practitioners:
Common (Temporary)
- Injection site tenderness: 1-2 days
- Minor bruising: Occasional, 3-5 days
- Slight swelling: Rare, resolves quickly
- Temporary chewing fatigue: First few weeks
Rare Side Effects
- Asymmetry: Usually from uneven injection, can be corrected
- Cheek hollowing: If injected too high or in thin patients
- Difficulty chewing: Very rare, temporary
- Smile changes: Extremely rare with proper technique
Who Should Avoid This Treatment?
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Those with neuromuscular disorders
- Allergy to botulinum toxin
- Active infection at injection site
Maximizing Your Results
Do's After Treatment
✅ Stay upright for 4 hours after injection ✅ Gently exercise jaw muscles (chew gum) the first day ✅ Follow up if asymmetry noticed at 2 weeks ✅ Maintain regular treatment schedule
Don'ts After Treatment
❌ Don't rub or massage the area for 24 hours ❌ Avoid lying down for 4 hours ❌ Skip alcohol for 24 hours ❌ No sauna or intense exercise for 24-48 hours ❌ Avoid excessive chewing (tough foods, gum) long-term
Lifestyle Tips for Lasting Results
To maintain your slimmer jawline longer:
- Avoid excessive chewing: Gum, tough meats, chewy foods
- Address teeth grinding: Consider a night guard
- Reduce jaw clenching: Stress management helps
- Regular maintenance: Stay on schedule
Masseter Botox vs Other V-Line Treatments
| Treatment | Mechanism | Duration | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masseter Botox | Muscle reduction | 6-8 months | $40-200 | Muscle-based square jaw |
| V-Line Surgery | Bone reshaping | Permanent | $3,000-8,000 | Bone-based square jaw |
| Face Liposuction | Fat removal | Permanent | $1,000-3,000 | Fat-based fullness |
| HIFU/Shurink | Skin tightening | 6-12 months | $300-800 | Mild sagging |
Can You Combine Treatments?
Yes! Korean clinics often combine masseter Botox with:
- Chin filler: Enhances V-line by elongating chin
- Cheek filler: Balances facial proportions
- HIFU: Adds skin tightening effect
- Face contouring injection: Reduces fat under chin
Choosing a Clinic in Seoul
What to Look For
✅ Experienced injectors: Technique matters for natural results ✅ Authentic products: Ask to see sealed vials ✅ Clear pricing: Per unit or per area, no hidden fees ✅ Before/after photos: Review realistic results ✅ English support: Clear communication is essential
Red Flags
⚠️ Extremely low prices (may use diluted product) ⚠️ Won't disclose Botox brand ⚠️ Pressure to add unnecessary treatments ⚠️ No consultation with actual doctor ⚠️ Rushed procedure without assessment
Popular Areas
Gangnam (강남)
- Highest concentration of clinics
- Very competitive pricing
- Most English-friendly
Myeongdong (명동)
- Tourist-friendly area
- Convenient location
- Many multilingual clinics
Apgujeong (압구정)
- Premium clinics
- Celebrity-frequented
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does masseter Botox hurt? A: Most patients describe it as very tolerable—just quick pinches. The entire procedure takes only 5-10 minutes, and no anesthesia is typically needed.
Q: Will I have trouble chewing? A: You may notice slight chewing fatigue for the first 1-2 weeks as the muscle adjusts. This is temporary and doesn't affect normal eating.
Q: How many units do I need? A: Typically 25-50 units per side (50-100 total), depending on muscle size. Your doctor will assess and recommend the appropriate amount.
Q: Can men get masseter Botox? A: Absolutely! While V-line is often associated with feminine aesthetics, men also get this treatment for facial slimming, teeth grinding relief, or TMJ issues.
Q: Is Korean Botox safe? A: Yes. Korean brands like Nabota and Meditoxin are KFDA-approved and widely used. They're effective and safe, just manufactured locally rather than imported.
Q: Will my face look unnatural? A: When done correctly, masseter Botox creates a natural, gradual slimming effect. It won't look "done"—just a softer, more refined jawline.
Q: Can I get this treatment before flying home? A: Yes! You can fly the same day. There's no downtime, and any minor swelling typically isn't noticeable.
Bonus: Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) Relief
Beyond aesthetics, masseter Botox offers therapeutic benefits:
- Reduces teeth grinding: Relaxes overactive jaw muscles
- Relieves TMJ pain: Decreases jaw tension and discomfort
- Prevents tooth damage: Less grinding = less wear
- Reduces headaches: Jaw tension often causes tension headaches
Many patients get masseter Botox for these functional benefits and enjoy the slimming effect as a bonus!
Conclusion
Masseter Botox in Korea offers an unbeatable combination of expertise and value. With prices starting at just $40-80 for Korean brands (compared to $400-800 in Western countries), you can achieve that coveted V-line face shape without surgery and without breaking the bank.
Whether you're looking for aesthetic jawline slimming or relief from teeth grinding, Korean clinics deliver world-class results backed by years of experience in facial aesthetics.
Ready for your V-line transformation? Book a consultation at a reputable Seoul clinic and discover why masseter Botox is one of Korea's most popular cosmetic treatments.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about masseter Botox treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Individual results vary based on muscle size and treatment response.
Last Updated: November 2025 Reading Time: 9 minutes