Masseter Botox for Jaw Slimming: Benefits, Cost, Side Effects & Results
What is Masseter Botox? Does it Work for TMJ, Teeth Grinding, and Jaw Slimming?
Masseter Botox is a cosmetic and therapeutic procedure where botulinum toxin injections (such as Botox) are administered directly into the masseter muscles – the powerful chewing muscles located on each side of your face. This jaw Botox treatment has gained popularity for TMJ relief, teeth grinding (also called bruxism), and facial contouring.
The masseter muscle is one of four muscles that help us chew. This muscle extends from the base of the cheekbone to the bottom of the mandible and is easily felt along the lower jaw when your teeth are clenched. Large masseter muscles can be caused by regularly chewing gum, clenching the jaw, grinding teeth, or by inexperienced musicians learning wind instruments. Some people are just born with larger masseter muscles.
A large or overactive masseter muscle can make the lower face appear square-shaped and bulky. Botox injected into this muscle decreases nerve signals to the muscle, temporarily paralyzing the muscle which reduces its size because it is not as active anymore, making the face look more contoured, defined, and slimmer.
Masseter Botox Benefits:
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) treatment and jaw pain relief
- Bruxism treatment (teeth grinding)
- Jaw slimming and facial reshaping
- Square jaw reduction for a more contoured appearance.
How much does Masseter Botox cost?
Masseter Botox cost typically ranges from $400-$900 per treatment session. With Botox priced at $10-$15 per unit, most patients require 20-30 units per side (40-60 total units) for optimal jaw reduction results.
Masseter Botox Dosage and Treatment Details:
The masseter muscles are the strongest muscle in the face because they are used for chewing. Higher than normal dosages of Botox are administered.
- Units needed: 20-30 units per masseter muscle
- Injection sites: 4 total injections (2 per side)
- Treatment time: Under 30 minutes
- Results timeline: Visible jaw slimming within 1-2 weeks.
How Long Does Masseter Botox Last?
One course of Masseter Botox typically lasts around 4-6 months. Results of jaw Botox become noticeable within 1-2 weeks, with full effects visible by 4 weeks. Regular maintenance treatments are needed to sustain facial slimming benefits.
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Masseter Botox Before and After Results
Patients can expect significant jawline contouring and reduction in facial width. This before and after masseter Botox photo can show you what to expect from treatment.
The actual results for you may vary depending on your face structure and the amount of Botox used.
Who Should Avoid Masseter Botox? Contraindications
Contraindications to Masseter Botox include:
- Allergies to onabotulinumtoxinA, Botox, or other botulinum toxin products
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Bleeding disorders
- Neuromuscular conditions
- Skin infections in the areas being treated.
Masseter Botox Side Effects and Risks
While generally safe when performed by experienced practitioners, potential complications include:
- Crooked smile or facial asymmetry
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Lip drooping
- Unwanted facial wrinkles
- Botox migration to surrounding muscles.
Important Safety Considerations:
This is an off-label Botox use – the FDA hasn't specifically approved Botox for masseter muscle reduction and the long-term side effects are unknown. Always choose a qualified practitioner experienced in facial anatomy and cosmetic injectables.
Post-Treatment Care
- Remaining upright for at least 4 hours after the procedure to reduce the risk of diffusion of Botox into surrounding tissues or muscles
- Avoiding exercise, hot baths, or saunas for 24 hours
- No alcohol or nicotine on treatment day
- Apply ice for swelling
- Don't massage the treatment area.
If you notice any unusual or worrying side effects from masseter Botox, ring your healthcare provider immediately.
Is Masseter Botox Right for You?
Jaw Botox can effectively address both cosmetic concerns (facial slimming) and medical issues (TMJ pain, bruxism relief). Consult with a qualified provider to determine if you're a good candidate for this non-surgical jaw reduction treatment.
References
- Masseter Botox: What Is It And How Can It Transform Your Face Shape? Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics. https://eternaldermatology.com/masseter-botox/
- Botulinum Toxin. Skin Specialist Centre. https://skinspecialistcentre.co.nz/treatment/botulinum-toxin
- Mierzwa, D., Olchowy, C., Olchowy, A., et al. (2022). Botox Therapy for Hypertrophy of the Masseter Muscle Causes a Compensatory Increase of Stiffness of Other Muscles of Masticatory Apparatus. Life (Basel, Switzerland), 12(6), 840. https://doi.org/10.3390/life12060840
- How Masseter Botox can slim down your face and prevent teeth grinding. June 10, 2022. Business Insider Reviews. https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/treatments/masseter-botox
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