Can Chewing Gum Change Your Face Shape? Tips for a More Oval Look

About facial shape?

Hello, Dr.
Luo! I would like to ask, my original face shape was oval, but I recently noticed that it has become more square.
I later learned from a friend that chewing gum can cause the face shape to become larger.
However, I have only been chewing gum for about a month.
Could this have an impact? Also, could you please advise me on any methods to help change my square face back to an oval shape?

AK47, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/29

Dr. Luo Qihua reply Plastic Surgery

Chewing gum can lead to hypertrophy of the masseter muscles, resulting in a square-shaped face.
Therefore, if you stop the habitual chewing of gum, your facial shape should gradually return to normal.
Otherwise, you may need to consider spending money on Botox injections to restore an oval face shape.

Reply Date: 2004/12/29

More Info

Chewing gum can indeed have an impact on your facial shape, particularly if done excessively. The primary reason for this is that chewing gum engages the masseter muscles, which are the main muscles used for chewing. Over time, frequent and prolonged use of these muscles can lead to hypertrophy, or an increase in muscle size, which can make the face appear more square or angular rather than oval.
If you have only chewed gum for about a month, the changes to your facial shape may not be permanent. The good news is that if you stop chewing gum, the masseter muscles can gradually return to their normal size, which may help restore your original oval face shape. However, this process can take time, and the extent of recovery can vary from person to person.

To help facilitate a return to a more oval face shape, consider the following tips:
1. Stop Chewing Gum: As mentioned, discontinuing gum chewing is the first step. This will prevent further hypertrophy of the masseter muscles.

2. Facial Exercises: Engaging in facial exercises can help tone and strengthen the muscles in your face without overdeveloping any specific area. Exercises that focus on the jawline and cheeks can be beneficial.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help maintain overall body weight and reduce any excess fat that may contribute to a rounder appearance.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help reduce water retention, which can sometimes cause puffiness in the face.

5. Consider Professional Advice: If you're concerned about your facial shape and want to explore options, consulting with a dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon can provide you with tailored advice. They may suggest treatments such as Botox injections to relax the masseter muscles, which can help create a more oval appearance.

6. Facial Contouring Makeup: While this doesn’t change your face shape, using makeup techniques can help create the illusion of a more oval face. Contouring the sides of your face and highlighting the center can visually alter your appearance.

7. Weight Management: If you have gained weight, losing some of it can also help in achieving a more oval face shape. However, this should be done through healthy lifestyle changes rather than extreme dieting.

8. Consultation with a Specialist: If you are looking for more permanent solutions, options like dermal fillers or surgical procedures can be discussed with a qualified plastic surgeon. These methods can help reshape the face but come with their own risks and considerations.

In conclusion, while chewing gum can lead to changes in facial shape due to muscle hypertrophy, the effects are not necessarily permanent, especially if you take proactive steps to mitigate them. By stopping gum chewing and adopting healthy habits, you can work towards regaining your desired oval face shape. If you have ongoing concerns, seeking professional advice is always a good option.

Similar Q&A

Does Chewing Gum Really Change Your Face Shape?

Hello, doctor! I have a question. I heard from a friend that chewing gum can make your face become square-shaped! How long do you have to chew for your face to possibly change?

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
In general, the effects of chewing gum are difficult to assess because the intensity of chewing varies from person to person. However, chewing betel nut will definitely cause the muscles to grow horizontally within a year or two.

Does Breastfeeding Influence Children's Facial Shape and Gum Exposure?

Doctor: May I ask if breastfeeding can help achieve a more symmetrical facial shape in children? If breastfeeding is not practiced, how can we prevent gum exposure in children? Is it possible for adults to experience an increase in gum visibility? Thank you for your response!

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry
Hello Nun: Even if you are not breastfeeding, there are specialized nipples available for correction. You can consult with your regular dentist or visit a baby supply store nearby.

Can Dental Treatment Improve My Protruding Jaw Appearance?

Doctor, my mouth protrudes a bit outward, similar to a monkey's snout. It looks unattractive. Can this condition be improved? Thank you.

Dr. Yang Hui reply Dentistry
Hello Akai: Based on your description, it seems you have protruding teeth. The cause of protruding teeth may be due to the shape of the jawbone or the anterior teeth being angled outward. This condition can usually be improved through orthodontics or surgery. I recommend that you...

Understanding Cheek Muscle Tension: Causes and Solutions for a Square Face

The facial muscles feel particularly firm, and sometimes there is a sensation of numbness in the cheek muscles, despite not having a habit of chewing betel nut. Is this what is referred to as a "square face"? When I look in the mirror, my face appears angular, which I f...

Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine
Sometimes, the facial shape may give the impression of thickened cheek muscles. Do you often enjoy eating foods like squid strips, sugarcane, or nuts? If you are concerned about improper chewing, you might want to consult a dentist to check for malocclusion or if you tend to chew...