What is masseter Botox?

Patrick K. Sullivan

Masseter Botox involves injecting botulinum toxin into the masseter muscles, which are located at the angle of the jaw. This treatment is used for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes, including slimming the jawline, reducing teeth clenching and grinding, and alleviating pain and tension in the masseter muscles.

By relaxing these muscles, Botox can create a more contoured and aesthetically pleasing jawline while also providing relief from discomfort caused by overactive muscles.

Jawline slimming

Masseter Botox treatment works by relaxing the masseter muscles, which can become enlarged due to frequent use or overactivity. The procedure involves a series of small injections into the masseter muscles, which gradually reduce their size and prominence. This treatment is popular for achieving a slimmer, more V-shaped jawline without the need for surgery.

What to expect?

When undergoing masseter Botox treatment, patients can expect a straightforward procedure with minimal discomfort. The injections are typically quick and relatively painless, with results becoming noticeable within a few weeks. Here are some specific outcomes you can expect from the treatment:

Relief from teeth clenching and grinding

Botox can help alleviate the symptoms of bruxism, a condition characterised by involuntary teeth clenching and grinding. By relaxing the masseter muscles, Botox reduces the frequency and intensity of these actions, providing significant relief from associated discomfort and preventing further dental damage.

Reduce masseter pain and tension

Overactive masseter muscles can cause pain and tension in the jaw area. Botox injections can help ease this discomfort by relaxing the muscles, reducing their activity, and alleviating the associated pain and tension.

Less square face shape

For individuals with a prominent, square-shaped jawline caused by enlarged masseter muscles, Botox can help achieve a more oval or V-shaped face. By reducing the size of the masseter muscles, the treatment softens the jawline and enhances facial proportions.

The cause of large masseter muscles

Enlarged masseter muscles can result from various factors, including habitual teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), excessive gum chewing, and genetic predisposition. Overuse of these muscles leads to hypertrophy, where the muscles become larger and more pronounced, contributing to a square-shaped jawline and associated discomfort.

How many units do I need?

The number of Botox units required for masseter treatment varies based on individual needs and the severity of muscle hypertrophy. Typically, patients may need between 20 to 50 units per side. Factors such as muscle size, treatment goals, and previous Botox experience can influence the exact dosage.

Aftercare recommendations

Proper aftercare is essential for achieving the best results from your masseter Botox treatment. Here are some brief guidelines to follow post-treatment:

What to avoid?

  • Avoid massaging or rubbing the treated area for at least 24 hours to prevent Botox from migrating to unintended areas.
  • Refrain from vigorous exercise for the first 24 hours post-treatment to reduce the risk of swelling and bruising.
  • Avoid lying down or bending over excessively for four hours after the injections to help ensure the Botox remains in the targeted muscles.

Find a practitioner

At Adoreal, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic and therapeutic goals with expert Botox treatments. Our experienced practitioners provide personalised care and use the latest techniques to ensure safe and effective results. Schedule your consultation with Adoreal today to learn more about how masseter Botox can help you achieve a slimmer jawline and alleviate jaw pain and tension.

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