I want to get botox on my temporalis muscles on the sides of my head to shrink them?

Question

Do I need to look long and hard for a good botox injector or is this procedure pretty simple and I can just go to any injector near me and pretty much end up with the same results? What do I need to know about botox before proceeding with this? Are there any notable side effects? How long do results last and how long until results show?

David Yew, MD · Answer

In over 11 years of specializing in botox - we have only used botox in the temporalis muscles for patients who have discomfort or tension in that area.   It is usually coupled with botox in the masseters to relieve symptoms of TMJ.   If you do not have any of these symptoms - then I would not recommend putting botox in the temples as it will have only a very minimal effect on the appearance of making your head look thinner.  If you have no hair in the temple region because you prefer a shaved head appearance - maybe I can understand this approach better.   But if you have hair in the temporalis region and no headache - then save your money.   Ask whomever you go to - how many temporalis muscle injections they have done.   If it's over 500 injections in that area - then they know what they're doing.  It's not based on what kind of doctor they are.   It's based on experience.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Botox will lead to atrophy of the muscle where it is injected and should work nicely for the temporalis muscles. It may take several months before you see a significant change, and likely, injections every 4 to 6 months to see the best results in this area. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, Botox can be used to reduce the temporalis. Botox results resolve in 3-4 months. You'll want to see someone meticulous. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Ben Talei, MD · Answer

Definitely find someone who does this commonly or is at least intimately familiar with the anatomy.  If injected too far anteriorly or towards the temporal crest you can have issues

Kurt Kuhlman, DO · Answer

Botox to shrink the temporalis muscle is an easy injection if done by someone knowledgeable. You do not need to see a board certified dermatologist as the vast majority have no idea how to do this. Your injector needs to be experienced doing this injection as the exact dosage and location of the Botox will vary depending on your individual needs. Side effects are rare with an experienced injector. It may take a few months for the muscle to shrink, and you may need repeat injections every 4 to 6 months.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

Botox can be used to dectrease the size of the temporalis but you need to be sure you see a board certifiied dermatologist as there are all kinds of doctors and others doing the injections. See my latest book Skinscam available on Amazon

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

Botox/Dysport is commonly used to treat enlarged masseter muscles. These muscles, like the temporalis, are used to chew and can enlarged with bruxism. Although less commonly done, the temporalis can be treated with Botox/Dysport in the appropriate patient.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

I would definitely start by finding either plastic surgeon like myself or a dermatologist who is well-versed with botox. If they find a sufficient cause that the treatment is warranted, I'm sure they will easily perform it. Good luck from New York City

Shalini Gupta, MD · Answer

Botox works well for reducing muscle bulk by causing atrophy over time.  The injector should have good knowledge of facial anatomy and experience with Botox injections.  Usually you will need 25-50 units on each side and treatments may be needed 3-4 times a year.  The muscle will atrophy with time and you should begin to notice some changes within a month of treatment.  The temporalis muscle treatment may as a side benefit help with Bruxism or TMJ and the masseter is also commonly treated to reduce such symptoms.

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

Yes, it is possible to reduce the size of the temporalis muscles with Botox.  It may require repeated injections at 3 to 6 month intervals to maintain the effect.  Seek out a board certified plastic surgeon who performs their own injections rather than turn the procedure over to their staff.  It may take a few months to see the full effect of the treatment.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.

I want to get botox on my temporalis muscles on the sides of my head to shrink them?

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