In this episode of Holding Time Back, Dr. Amanda Holden is joined once again by Dr. Jean Carruthers to shed light on three commonly missed but incredibly impactful Botox areas: the masseter, the platysma, and the gummy smile. Each of these areas contributes not only to cosmetic outcomes but also to patient confidence and function.

Dr. Carruthers begins with the masseter, a muscle often associated with chewing but also responsible for creating a square, masculine jawline when overdeveloped. She explains how targeted dosing of botulinum toxin in this area can soften the lower face, improve facial balance, and even relieve TMJ symptoms—so long as the injector understands facial anatomy and avoids the anterior fibers that may affect a patient’s ability to smile.

Next, they explore the platysma, a thin sheet-like muscle that pulls the lower face downward. With newly approved treatment options in both the U.S. and Canada, the platysma is gaining popularity for non-surgical jawline refinement. Dr. Carruthers shares how this treatment can be especially powerful when combined with masseter injections, though she cautions practitioners to evaluate skin laxity before proceeding.

Finally, the episode covers the often-ignored gummy smile. A simple adjustment using 1–2 units of Botox in a small upper lip elevator muscle can transform how a patient feels about their smile. For many, this tiny tweak removes a lifetime of self-consciousness in just minutes.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Carruthers emphasizes the importance of personalized dosing, follow-up appointments, and photographic comparisons to monitor long-term results.

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