For my fellow full faced friends, there are actually many non-surgical treatments available today that can be implemented before needing to go under the knife. Using injectables we can sculpt and contour the facial shape creating a more balanced, slimmer and chiselled look. Here are the top 5 ways to achieve a slimmer, more sculpted face.
- Anti-wrinkle injections (neurotoxin) into the masseter muscle
The masseter muscle is a large rectangular muscle which originates from the lateral cheek bone (zygomatic arch) and inserts into the angle of the jaw and along the lateral surface of the mandibular ramus (posterior part of the jaw). It is the main muscle we use in order to chew our food. However, some people develop overly large masseter muscles due to teeth grinding, teeth clenching, chewing tough food or chewing gum. Some cultures genetically have naturally large masseter muscles.
Over time with constant contraction of this muscle, the muscle can become quite bulky and cause widening of the lower face. This is not so much of a problem in men because a wide, square jaw is desirable. However, in women, an oval shaped face is generally the most aesthetically pleasing, and by reducing the bulkiness of this muscle, it can dramatically slim the lower face. Injections of neurotoxin are placed deep in this muscle and within 6-8 weeks the muscle is reduced, and the lower face shape is slimmed. It’s important to keep the injection placement in the posterior part of the muscle in order to avoid other muscles and smile asymmetries.
- Cheek fillers
Most people think that adding more volume to the cheeks will create more fullness, however if filler is strategically placed on the lateral cheek bone, this can give the illusion of a slimmer face. Obviously if the patient is already full in the lateral aspect of the cheek then this will not be necessary, however those with a round face often find that they lack structure, especially in the lateral cheek bones. Creating structure here will give more height to the zygomatic arch and give a more chiselled appearance. Using a thick filler with a high G prime will allow for a sharper look.
- Chin filler
Adding filler to the chin for projection can elongate the jawline, again giving the illusion of more depth, rather than a round, full face. Many people have slightly recessive chins and therefore can do with a slightly more projected chin. Adding volume in this area will also make the double chin appear less obvious. In women we can give the illusion of a narrower chin by adding filler to the midline of the chin, creating more of a v shape. The ideal chin width in women to create a more feminine appearance is usually the same as the distance between the inner corners of the eyes (inner canthus). Again, men usually want a wider chin as this is more masculine and the chin should be the same width as the mouth.
- Jawline filler
Adding filler along the jawline can camouflage jowls and again create length, which will counterbalance the round fuller face. By slightly accentuating the angle of the jaw and along the mandible with filler, we can create long sleek lines which will give structure creating the illusion of a slimmer face.
- Sub-mental fat dissolving
Fat dissolving injections can be placed into the turkey neck or double chin (submental fat). These injections work much like a detergent, they break open the fat cell membrane, the fat leaks out into the tissues, and the body’s white blood cells come to the site where they start engulfing the fat and take it to the liver via the lymphatic system where it is metabolised and eliminated from the body. This process can take up to 12 weeks, but the results are permanent. Normally at least 2 treatments will be needed and can be done 4-6 weeks apart.
If you're wanting to know more about facial slimming, book in a complementary consultation with an injector today to explore the best treatment options for you.
You can book a time by calling the clinic on 02 8041 5725 or online.
