Is it okay to get Botox in just one masseter that overdeveloped?

Question

I'm rather thin and have a very slim face. One of my masseter muscles has overdeveloped due to my other masseter muscle becoming atrophied to an illness I had years ago that affected some of my muscles on one half of my body. I dont think theres room to do botox on that side or else I'm afraid the muscle won't work at all and I want to get it to start working again. Is it resonable to have botox only in the overdeveloped masseter?

George Yang, MD · Answer

Good question. If a patient has masseter assymetry, I will add different amounts of botox or other neurotoxin to shrink them down to improve the symmetry. In some cases, the person does have a smaller side of the face and does not want to further shrink the “good side.” In those cases, I will only inject toxin in the larger side and adjust the dose to try to shrink it down to match the other side. This dose may be less than if we wanted maximal reduction. Of note, patients over 40 may get jowling if the masseter is too atrophied. The tricky situation is when they are getting the injection for grinding their teeth AKA bruxism. To treat the grinding may require a large dose to relieve the bruxism, but then it shrinks the masseter too much and causes some jowling. If the dose is smaller, it may not cause jowling, but the tension from grinding may not be fully relieved. That’s a dilemma, but the patient can guide the direction which is more acceptable for them. Hope this provided some value to you. Keep researching. Good luck. Best, Dr. Yang

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. It may be possible but best to be evaluated in person for the best treatment advice.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

We all have facial asymmetry to some degree.  If only one side of your face has masseter muscle that is overdeveloped it is reasonable to inject the one side to bring your facial features into better balance.  See an experienced injector for treatment.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

You can definitely treat only one masseter with Botox, just like you can treat any other asymmetries with just one-sided botox or fillers if need be. Most importantly for best results and safety, see your local cosmetic dermatologist for your treatment.

Leslie Pickens, MD · Answer

Before giving any medical advice to you it would be best to discuss with your doctor who may be able to find out what medical condition you had previously.  Some neuromuscular conditions cannot be treated safely with Botox.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

With everything you have said and a physical exam confirming the same, you can definitely have Botox administered only into one masseter muscle. I hope this helps and good luck from New York City Plastic Surgery

Is it okay to get Botox in just one masseter that overdeveloped?

Answers (6)

More Botox for TMJ Questions

Bad Botox changed my face shape? (Photo)

Tips to improve face/side profile - would Botox have any effect on me?

Botox for square jaw from TMJ

What can I do (regarding invasive or noninvasive procedures) to compliment my natural beauty? (photos)

Would I benefit from getting Botox in my masseters or filler in my jawline to make my face look slimmer?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS