Masseter Muscle Botox Impacts Facial Expressions
The masseter muscles are the long, rectangular facial muscles that wrap around the lower jawbone and connect it to the cheek bone. They help with mouth movements like chewing, but they can become enlarged over time due to stress or habitual teeth grinding and clenching, which can change the shape of the lower face and jawline. This is called bruxism. It is a common condition and can cause severe jaw pain. Fortunately, this painful condition can be alleviated with Masseter Muscle Botox injections.
These injections are also used as a cosmetic treatment to slim the lower part of the face, particularly in women. They are often performed in conjunction with a chin lift for more comprehensive results. This procedure is quick and simple, which allows patients to return to their daily routine immediately afterward.
Botox works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals to a muscle so it can relax and shrink. The result is a more petite, feminine-shaped lower jawline, which improves the balance and proportions of the face. It usually takes 20 to 30 units of Botox or Dysport to reduce the size of the masseter muscles.
How Masseter Muscle Botox Impacts Facial Expressions
In addition to its cosmetic benefits, this procedure is a popular solution for addressing bruxism. High levels of work, financial, and social stress can unconsciously lead to teeth clenching and jaw grinding. This is a common problem, and it can cause headaches, jaw pain, tooth damage, and even asymmetry in the face. In fact, a 2019 study found that Botox was more effective than other treatments for bruxism, including mouthguards and medication.
During the Masseter Muscle Botox treatment, the jaw muscles will be injected with a small amount of botulinum toxin. This is done in the doctor’s office and only takes about 15 minutes to perform. The injections are made in a small area of the jaw, and no local anesthesia is required. The injections may feel slightly uncomfortable, but they are not painful.
After the injections, the doctor will wait a few minutes for the muscle to begin relaxing. The injection sites will then be washed and sanitized. Patients can return to their regular activities immediately after the appointment, although it is a good idea to avoid exercise and other strenuous activity for 24 hours to prevent contributing to any swelling at the injection site.
The results of the Masseter Muscle Botox procedure will start to appear within a few days and will last for up to 4 months. To maintain the results, follow-up treatments are recommended at a few-month intervals.
Masseter Muscle Botox is a safe and quick treatment that can provide significant cosmetic and functional benefits for many patients. While it is important to be realistic about what this procedure can achieve, most patients find that it dramatically improves their quality of life and enhances the overall appearance of their face. Contact our office for a consultation to determine if this treatment is right for you. We look forward to hearing from you!