Awful smile following Botox in masseter. How long will this last & are results permanent?

Question

2 weeks ago I had botox in my massteter muscles (25u/side). After 6 days I noticed my smile had completely shrunk & disappeared. My smile is now extremely small & I no longer have definition in my cheekbones. Are there any other side effects I should be concerned about further experiencing? At 2 weeks I also notice that my right cheek is more full/puffy & therefore looks fatter than my left. When am I likely to see my natural face again & will it back to its original definition?

Jacob Sedgh, MD · Answer

The changes and asymmetry of the smile following Botox injection are secondary to unintended differential weakness of other muscles, but the good news is that the effect is temporary and will be gone in 3-4 months maximum time.

David Gilpin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!  I am sorry that you are having these difficulties after your Botox injections.  Botox injections into the masseter muscle help to sculpt the face, and reduce the width of these muscles.  You may be noticing some changes because of relaxation of the masseter muscle, which is not directly involved with smiling.  I would discuss your concerns with your injector, and possibly have a follow up visit. I hope that this helps!-David Gilpin

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

The problem is that the risorius muscles was hit with the Botox. This muscles lies in front of the masster. This will take 2-3 months to resolve and it will go back to normal. Don't worry. This is on the higher side of dosing. I start at 15 per side.

Edwin Ishoo, MD · Answer

Botox is a neurotoxin designed to weaken or paralyze targeted muscle. when injected into the face it can affect intended and unintended muscles depending on technique and dosing. What ever may be attributable to Botox is temporary and should resolve in 10-12 weeks. May need to alter injection technique, dosing and dilution of Botox for the next treatment.

Deborah DiStefano, MD · Answer

Thank you again for your question.  With an experienced injector you should not have any asymmetry of your smile.  Alll these effects should go away in 3-4 months though.  Thanks for your question.

Awful smile following Botox in masseter. How long will this last & are results permanent?

Answers (7)

Answer: Botox has altered smile

Answer: Botox has altered smile

Answer: Botox

Answer: Botox

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

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

Awful smile following Botox in masseter. How long will this last & are results permanent?

Answers (7)

Answer: Botox has altered smile

Answer: Botox has altered smile

Answer: Botox

Answer: Botox

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

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