Botox for Masseter Muscle

Botox for Masseter Muscle

You’re not alone if you’re considering getting Botox for your Masseter muscle. This treatment has become increasingly popular in recent years as people seek to slim their faces or alleviate the pain of jaw clenching or grinding. However, before making any decisions, it’s essential to understand what the treatment entails, how it works, and what you can expect.

What is the Masseter Muscle?

The masseter muscle is one of the muscles responsible for chewing. It’s located in the lower part of the face, which gives the jaw its “square” or “boxy” shape. In some cases, the masseter muscle can enlarge (hypertrophy) due to teeth grinding or clenching, creating a more masculine, square-shaped face.

How does Botox work on the Masseter Muscle?

Botox is a neuromodulator that works by blocking signals from nerves to muscles. When injected into the masseter muscle, Botox causes the muscle to relax, reducing its size, strength, and volume over time. This can create a more feminine, oval-shaped face, which many consider more attractive. Botox can also reduce the muscle spasms caused by grinding or clenching, which helps relieve jaw pain and headaches. 

What are the benefits of getting Botox for the Masseter Muscle?

There are several benefits to getting Botox for the masseter muscle, including:

1. Slimmer, more feminine facial appearance
2. Reduction in jaw clenching or grinding, which can alleviate symptoms like headaches, jaw pain, and teeth grinding
3. Results typically last for several months

What is the procedure like?

The procedure for getting Botox for the masseter muscle is simple and typically takes less than one minute. The doctor will start by assessing your face and determining the ideal injection sites. Then, they inject small amounts of Botox (about 30 units on each side) into the masseter muscle using a fine needle.

You may experience a mild pinch during the procedure, but most people find it painless. Afterward, you can resume your normal activities immediately, although you should avoid rubbing or massaging the injection sites for several hours to prevent the Botox from spreading to other areas.

When will I see the results, and how long will they last?

The goal is to reduce strength and spasms of the masseter muscle, not paralyze it. You should start to see the results of your Botox treatment within a few days, although it can take up to two weeks to see the full effect. The results typically last three to six months, although this can vary depending on the individual.

Are there any risks or side effects?

As with any medical procedure, risks and potential side effects are associated with getting Botox for the masseter muscle. The goal is to reduce the strength and spasms of the masseter muscle, not paralyze it. The most common side effects include bruising, swelling, and redness at the injection sites.

It is essential to choose a qualified, experienced provider who can be accurate and minimize these risks and side effects. They will also be able to help you determine if Botox for the masseter muscle is the right choice for your individual needs and goals.

In conclusion, getting Botox for the masseter muscle can be a safe and effective way to achieve a slimmer, more feminine facial appearance while alleviating jaw clenching or grinding symptoms. Fraser Valley Cataract and Laser is proud to host several experienced health providers who can help you achieve the best possible results. Call us now at your preferred location to get started!