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?

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.

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.

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.

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Treating only one masseter with Botox

Answer: Treating only one masseter with Botox

Answer: Botox in one masseter

Answer: Botox in one masseter

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Treating only one masseter with Botox

Answer: Treating only one masseter with Botox

Answer: Botox in one masseter

Answer: Botox in one masseter

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox for TMJ

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.