Table of contents

• What Is Masseter Reduction?
• Best Clinics in Korea for Masseter Reduction
• Masseter Reduction in Korea
• Cost of Masseter Reduction in Korea
• Alternatives to Masseter Reduction
• Conclusion

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

---

Imagine transforming your jawline's appearance with a simple, effective procedure that is setting cosmetic trends worldwide—welcome to the world of masseter reduction in Korea. This article will guide you through this increasingly popular treatment that promises a refined V-shaped face, highlighting Korea's esteemed position in the cosmetic surgery landscape and offering insights into cost and alternatives for achieving your ideal facial contour.

What Is Masseter Reduction?

Masseter reduction is a cosmetic medical procedure designed to decrease the size of the masseter muscles, located on the sides of the jaw, which can contribute to a square or overly broad facial appearance. This procedure is sought after for creating a slimmer, more contoured jawline, commonly referred to as the "V-line" facial shape, which is highly prized in Korean beauty standards. The procedure is popular among individuals who wish to achieve a softer and more proportionate facial aesthetic without the need for invasive surgery.

Who Is Masseter Reduction For?

Masseter reduction is typically considered by individuals who are bothered by the prominence of their jawline, often due to genetic factors that cause hypertrophy, or enlargement, of the masseter muscles. This procedure is particularly appealing to those looking for a non-surgical or minimally invasive way to refine their facial contours. People who clench or grind their teeth frequently, a condition known as bruxism, might also benefit, as this habit can lead to overdeveloped masseter muscles.

Candidates for masseter reduction generally have good overall health, realistic expectations, and a desire to enhance their facial symmetry. The procedure is suitable for both men and women who wish to achieve aesthetic goals such as reducing the width of their lower face and enhancing the overall harmony of their facial features.

Types of Masseter Reduction Procedures

There are primarily two types of masseter reduction procedures: surgical and non-surgical.

Non-Surgical Masseter Reduction

The most common non-surgical method involves the use of Botulinum Toxin Type A (commonly known by the brand name Botox). Botox injections are strategically administered into the masseter muscles to temporarily weaken them. Over time, this reduction in muscle activity leads to muscle atrophy, resulting in a slimmer jawline. The benefits of Botox are that it involves minimal downtime, is relatively painless, and allows for gradual and natural-looking results. Patients typically require follow-up treatments every 3 to 6 months to maintain the desired effect.

Surgical Masseter Reduction

Surgical masseter reduction, also known as masseter muscle reduction surgery, involves partial removal or resection of the masseter muscle. This more invasive option is considered for individuals requiring a more dramatic or permanent change. Although it involves a longer recovery period and potential risks associated with surgery, it offers the advantage of lasting results. The surgical approach may also include bone contouring techniques, where a portion of the jawbone is shaved or removed to further enhance facial contouring.

In Korea, where masseter reduction procedures are particularly popular, expertise and precision in these techniques are highly developed. Patients can expect personalized consultations and tailored approaches to achieve their aesthetic goals while ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Each procedure type, whether non-surgical or surgical, comes with its set of considerations, benefits, and potential risks. It is essential for individuals to consult with qualified medical professionals to determine the most appropriate method based on their unique anatomical features and aesthetic desires.

Best Clinics in Korea for Masseter Reduction

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for masseter reduction:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
id Hospital Korea Website	ID Hospital in Korea is a clinic focused on facial treatments, aiming for safe and beautiful plastic surgery through customized care and a patient safety-oriented approach. For those considering masseter reduction, the hospital’s emphasis on individualized treatment planning and systematic post-care supports both aesthetic goals and a smooth recovery experience. With a comprehensive range of treatment items—including orthognathic surgery, facial contouring, eye and nose plastic surgery, breast surgery, lifting, a skin clinic, petit plastic surgery, and dentistry—ID Hospital can align masseter reduction needs with broader facial balance and function. Their integrated services enable tailored strategies that prioritize safety while refining the lower face contour.	For those considering masseter reduction, the hospital’s emphasis on individualized treatment planning and systematic post-care supports both aesthetic goals and a smooth recovery experience. Their integrated services enable tailored strategies that prioritize safety while refining the lower face contour.
Rejuel Clinic Website	Rejuel Clinic at Gangnam Station is a dermatologist-led aesthetic clinic specializing in skin rejuvenation, lifting, injectables, and body contouring, with an emphasis on natural-looking results. Its comprehensive menu spans collagen-boosting injectables like Exosome Therapy, Rejuran Healer, Filorga NCTF 135, SkinVive, Sculptra, and Radiesse; skin and laser dermatology for pigmentation, melasma, acne, scars, redness, and medical-grade skincare; energy-based lifting such as Ultherapy, Thermage, InMode RF, and Virtue RF Microneedling; petite aesthetics including dermal fillers, Botox for expression lines and jaw slimming, facial fat-dissolving injections, thread lifts, and skin boosters; as well as body contouring and hair removal, and medical semi-permanent makeup.	Dermatologist-led injectables: Physician planning and technique for botulinum toxin precisely target the masseter to slim the jaw while preserving natural expression. Natural-looking philosophy: The clinic emphasizes subtle, balanced facial refinement, aligning masseter reduction with overall harmony rather than over-correction. Proven jaw-slimming expertise: Botox treatments specifically include jaw slimming, making the clinic a go-to for contouring the lower face without surgery. Comprehensive contouring options: Tailored plans can pair masseter Botox with chin or jawline refinement (dermal fillers), lower-face tightening (InMode RF, Thermage), thread lifts, or targeted fat-dissolving injections for a sharper, V-line profile. Advanced skin quality optimization: Collagen-boosting injectables (Rejuran, SkinVive, Sculptra, Radiesse, Exosome Therapy, Filorga NCTF 135) enhance firmness, hydration, and texture to complement a slimmer jaw. Precision in muscle modulation: Expertise with both facial Botox and Body Botox reflects nuanced control over muscle bulk for smooth, symmetrical results. Convenient, staged care at Gangnam Station: Easy access supports assessment, dosing adjustments, and maintenance visits to maintain a refined jawline over time. Holistic maintenance: Medical-grade skincare and laser dermatology help keep the lower face clear, even-toned, and camera-ready as contours improve.
Girin Plastic Surgery Website	Girin Plastic Surgery at Gangnam Station is a trusted destination for patients seeking a slimmer, more refined jawline as part of their masseter reduction journey. Led by some of the most prestigious plastic surgeons in Korea, the clinic offers both surgical and non-surgical pathways that complement masseter-focused goals, including facial contouring options like New V-Line surgery, zygoma reduction, and genioplasty, as well as non-invasive solutions such as Botox and slimming injections. Skin-tightening technologies like Ulthera, AirJet, Inmode, and Oligio can further enhance lower-face definition for a harmonious result.	Backed by a comprehensive portfolio that also spans advanced eye, nose, breast, body, and lifting procedures, Girin emphasizes safe, professional, and satisfactory outcomes tailored to each patient’s needs—whether you prefer subtle refinement with injectables or a more structural transformation with contouring surgery. Choose Girin Plastic Surgery for expertise in achieving your desired aesthetic results with safety and professionalism.

id Hospital Korea

ID Hospital in Korea is a clinic focused on facial treatments, aiming for safe and beautiful plastic surgery through customized care and a patient safety-oriented approach. For those considering masseter reduction, the hospital’s emphasis on individualized treatment planning and systematic post-care supports both aesthetic goals and a smooth recovery experience.

With a comprehensive range of treatment items—including orthognathic surgery, facial contouring, eye and nose plastic surgery, breast surgery, lifting, a skin clinic, petit plastic surgery, and dentistry—ID Hospital can align masseter reduction needs with broader facial balance and function. Their integrated services enable tailored strategies that prioritize safety while refining the lower face contour.

Find more about this clinic here: id Hospital Korea Website

Rejuel Clinic

Rejuel Clinic at Gangnam Station is a dermatologist-led aesthetic clinic specializing in skin rejuvenation, lifting, injectables, and body contouring, with an emphasis on natural-looking results. Its comprehensive menu spans collagen-boosting injectables like Exosome Therapy, Rejuran Healer, Filorga NCTF 135, SkinVive, Sculptra, and Radiesse; skin and laser dermatology for pigmentation, melasma, acne, scars, redness, and medical-grade skincare; energy-based lifting such as Ultherapy, Thermage, InMode RF, and Virtue RF Microneedling; petite aesthetics including dermal fillers, Botox for expression lines and jaw slimming, facial fat-dissolving injections, thread lifts, and skin boosters; as well as body contouring and hair removal, and medical semi-permanent makeup.

Why Rejuel Clinic is the best for Masseter Reduction

• Dermatologist-led injectables: Physician planning and technique for botulinum toxin precisely target the masseter to slim the jaw while preserving natural expression.
• Natural-looking philosophy: The clinic emphasizes subtle, balanced facial refinement, aligning masseter reduction with overall harmony rather than over-correction.
• Proven jaw-slimming expertise: Botox treatments specifically include jaw slimming, making the clinic a go-to for contouring the lower face without surgery.
• Comprehensive contouring options: Tailored plans can pair masseter Botox with chin or jawline refinement (dermal fillers), lower-face tightening (InMode RF, Thermage), thread lifts, or targeted fat-dissolving injections for a sharper, V-line profile.
• Advanced skin quality optimization: Collagen-boosting injectables (Rejuran, SkinVive, Sculptra, Radiesse, Exosome Therapy, Filorga NCTF 135) enhance firmness, hydration, and texture to complement a slimmer jaw.
• Precision in muscle modulation: Expertise with both facial Botox and Body Botox reflects nuanced control over muscle bulk for smooth, symmetrical results.
• Convenient, staged care at Gangnam Station: Easy access supports assessment, dosing adjustments, and maintenance visits to maintain a refined jawline over time.
• Holistic maintenance: Medical-grade skincare and laser dermatology help keep the lower face clear, even-toned, and camera-ready as contours improve.

Find more about this clinic here: Rejuel Clinic Website

Girin Plastic Surgery

Girin Plastic Surgery at Gangnam Station is a trusted destination for patients seeking a slimmer, more refined jawline as part of their masseter reduction journey. Led by some of the most prestigious plastic surgeons in Korea, the clinic offers both surgical and non-surgical pathways that complement masseter-focused goals, including facial contouring options like New V-Line surgery, zygoma reduction, and genioplasty, as well as non-invasive solutions such as Botox and slimming injections. Skin-tightening technologies like Ulthera, AirJet, Inmode, and Oligio can further enhance lower-face definition for a harmonious result.

Backed by a comprehensive portfolio that also spans advanced eye, nose, breast, body, and lifting procedures, Girin emphasizes safe, professional, and satisfactory outcomes tailored to each patient’s needs—whether you prefer subtle refinement with injectables or a more structural transformation with contouring surgery. Choose Girin Plastic Surgery for expertise in achieving your desired aesthetic results with safety and professionalism.

Find more about this clinic here: Girin Plastic Surgery Website

Masseter Reduction in Korea

Masseter reduction, commonly known as jaw slimming or V-line surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to refine and contour the lower face by reducing the size of the masseter muscles. This procedure is particularly popular in Korea, a country renowned for its advanced and nuanced approach to beauty and aesthetic procedures.

Understanding Masseter Reduction

The masseter muscles are located at the angle of the jaw and are responsible for chewing. In some individuals, particularly those with a square jawline, these muscles can be disproportionately large, creating a broader appearance. Masseter reduction involves either non-surgical or surgical interventions to reduce the prominence of these muscles, thereby achieving a more tapered and aesthetically desirable jawline.

The Popularity of Masseter Reduction in Korea

Korean beauty standards emphasize a small, delicate v-line jaw, which is often associated with youth and femininity. The desire for this particular aesthetic has fueled a robust market for masseter reduction procedures. Korea's reputation as a hub for cosmetic surgery is well-documented, with sophisticated clinics and highly trained professionals offering state-of-the-art treatments at competitive prices.

The Procedure

Non-Surgical Method

One of the most common methods of masseter reduction in Korea is the use of botulinum toxin (Botox) injections. This non-surgical approach is popular due to its minimal recovery time and gradual results. Here's what to expect:

• Consultation: The process starts with a thorough consultation to discuss goals and evaluate the muscle hypertrophy.
• Procedure: During the procedure, Botox is injected directly into the masseter muscles. The injections work by relaxing the muscles, leading to a decrease in muscle fullness over time.
• Duration and Recovery: The procedure is relatively quick, often taking less than 30 minutes, and involves little to no downtime. Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately.
• Results: The effects become noticeable over several weeks to months and typically last between 6 to 9 months, requiring repeat treatments for maintenance.

Surgical Method

For a more permanent solution, surgical reduction of the masseter muscles is another option. This involves:

• Pre-Surgical Assessment: Similar to non-surgical methods, a consultation is held to determine the best approach depending on the patient’s facial structure and desired outcome.
• Surgery: The surgical procedure involves making incisions either inside the mouth or along the jawline to access and partially remove masseter muscle tissue.
• Recovery: This method requires a longer recovery period due to the invasiveness of the procedure. Swelling and bruising are common post-surgery, with most patients needing about a week of downtime before returning to normal activities.
• Results: The results are more dramatic and permanent, offering a significant reshaping of the jawline.

Why Korea?

Korea's expertise in plastic surgery is globally recognized. Clinics employ cutting-edge technology and follow stringent safety protocols. Furthermore, the highly competitive market ensures affordable prices without compromising on quality. The cultural acceptance of cosmetic procedures also means that patients enjoy discreet services and a supportive environment.

With these procedures, whether opting for the less invasive approach or a more permanent surgical solution, patients are met with skilled practitioners and personalized care that reflects Korea's dedication to beauty and innovation.

Cost of Masseter Reduction in Korea

Masseter reduction, a popular cosmetic procedure aimed at slimming the jawline, is increasingly sought after in Korea due to the expertise of local practitioners and the competitive pricing compared to other countries. On average, the cost of the procedure in Korea can range from approximately $500 to $3,000. This wide range is influenced by factors such as the clinic's reputation, the surgeon's experience, the technique used, and whether additional treatments are included in the package.

Most clinics in Korea offer non-surgical masseter reduction using botulinum toxin injections, commonly known as Botox, which typically falls on the lower end of the price spectrum — usually between $500 and $1,000. Surgical options, which involve partial surgical removal or reduction of the masseter muscles, are generally more expensive, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.

When considering masseter reduction in Korea, it's important to also factor in travel expenses. Airfare costs vary widely depending on your departure location and the time of year you plan to travel. Round-trip flights to South Korea from the United States, for example, can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 or more, depending on the airline and the season. Flights from countries in closer proximity to Korea, such as Japan or China, can be significantly cheaper, often ranging between $200 and $500.

Accommodation costs in Korea will depend on your preferences — budget accommodations like hostels or guesthouses typically cost between $20 and $70 per night, whereas mid-range hotels can range from $70 to $150 per night. Luxury hotels usually start at $200 and can exceed $500 per night. Additionally, you should budget for daily expenses, including food, transportation, and activities. Eating out in Korea is relatively affordable, with a typical meal costing anywhere from $5 to $15. Public transportation is efficient and reasonably priced, with single subway or bus rides costing around $1 to $2.

Overall, while the base cost of masseter reduction in Korea may appear more affordable than in other countries, prospective patients should conduct a thorough cost analysis, taking into account all related expenses to ensure a realistic budget for their medical tourism experience.

Alternatives to Masseter Reduction

While masseter Botox is a popular choice for those seeking jawline contouring or relief from bruxism and TMJ disorders, there are several alternative treatments that offer similar benefits. Here are three commonly recommended alternatives to masseter reduction:

1. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are typically used for facial rejuvenation and can also be employed to achieve a more balanced facial contour. These fillers are injected into specific areas of the face to add volume, improve symmetry, and enhance the jawline. This method can be tailored to address individual concerns, such as a recessed chin or hollow cheeks, which can indirectly help in creating a more defined jawline.

Benefits:

• Immediate results with minimal downtime.
• Customizable to suit specific facial needs.
• Can address multiple areas of the face simultaneously.

Considerations:

• Effects are temporary and may require maintenance every 6 to 12 months.
• Possible side effects include swelling and bruising.

2. Radiofrequency (RF) Treatment

Radiofrequency treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses heat to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. When used on the jawline and lower face, it can result in a firmer, more contoured appearance by reducing sagging and enhancing skin elasticity.

Benefits:

• Non-surgical with no downtime.
• Gradual, natural-looking results as collagen builds over time.
• Can improve skin texture and tone.

Considerations:

• Multiple sessions are often needed for optimal results.
• Results vary and might last a few months to a year.

3. Jawline Exercises

Jawline exercises primarily target the strengthening of the jaw and neck muscles. Regularly performing these exercises can help improve muscle tone and potentially enhance the appearance of the jawline over time. These exercises may include chin lifts, neck stretches, and resistance movements targeting the lower face.

Benefits:

• Non-invasive and cost-effective.
• Can be done at home without any special equipment.
• Supports overall muscle health and posture.

Considerations:

• Results take time and consistent effort.
• May not achieve drastic changes in face contour.

Each of these alternatives presents its own set of advantages and considerations, and they may be combined for a comprehensive approach to facial contouring. It's essential to consult with a qualified professional to determine which option aligns best with your goals and medical history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Masseter reduction in Korea represents a compelling option for those seeking to enhance their facial aesthetics while benefiting from the expertise and cutting-edge techniques offered by the country's renowned cosmetic surgery industry. With advancements in both surgical and non-surgical methods, patients have access to tailored treatments that prioritize safety, efficacy, and minimal downtime. The cultural emphasis on achieving a V-line facial shape has driven the development of sophisticated procedures that cater to both local and international clients. Korea’s combination of skilled practitioners, technologically advanced clinics, and a patient-focused approach ensures not only transformational results but also provides a comprehensive support system throughout the aesthetic journey. As such, Korea continues to be a leading destination for masseter reduction, attracting individuals worldwide who seek to confidently sculpt their desired facial contours.