Can Botox effectively reduce/shrink submandibular glands?

Question

Can Botox effectively reduce/shrink the size of submandibular glands? If so, how effectively and how many units are recommended into each gland and about how long does effect last?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Botox has been used to inject the various salivary glands to decrease the amount of saliva. you should contact a board certified facial plastic surgeon to check about this.

Kimberly Butterwick, MD · Answer

The short answer is yes, when Botox is administered into the submandibular glands, it leads to some reduction in size. However, this is a risky procedure that if done improperly could lead to excessively dry mouth or other issues. Please make sure your provider is a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in Botox injections.

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Dear Clovered,If performed correctly and consistently yes Botox can reduce submandibular gland size. This is because Botox injection will reduce the function of the gland, which over time will cause it to decrease in size. Please note that I would not recommend Botox injection into this area as it could carry unwanted side effects, especially injecting at the depth needed to affect the gland.Good luck,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
  Fellowship-trained Craniofacial Surgeon

Garcia Facial Plastic Surgery - Jacksonville · Answer

It is not recommended to inject the submandibular gland with Botox as this could have a negative impact on the functioning of this gland.  Depending on your desired outcome, injecting the masseter muscle could be a better option for you.  Injecting this muscle, which is near the submandibular gland, can give the lower face a slightly slimmer appearance.  I would recommend having an in-person consultation with an injector in your area to discuss options for your desired outcome.

Blake S. Raggio, MD, FACS · Answer

In theory, injecting botox into the submandibular gland will decrease saliva production and cause the gland to atrophy over time, thus creating an overall smaller gland.
Injecting into this area is typically reserved for patients with severe drooling.
Injecting for cosmetic purposed would be low yield, and not worth the risk of inducing facial nerve paralysis with each injection to that area (marginal mandibular nerve courses directly over the gland).
In the end, my advice to you is to consult with someone experienced in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation techniques (e.g., a board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon) so that you receive an expert and unbiased opinion.
Hope this helps!
Blake Raggio, MD | @dr.raggio
Tulane-trained Head and Neck Surgeon
Toronto-trained Facial Plastic Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Botox injected consistently in this area will over time reduce the size of the gland.  However, one has to look at risk vs. benefit.  It is not recommended that you have this area injected due to potential unwanted effects.

Mehdi Sina, MD · Answer

Hi,This is a great question. In theory, botox can reduce the salivary gland output which some people believe will result in shrinkage of the gland. In practice, this end result is elusive. The protocol many use is 20U per gland over multiple treatments. Best,

Sybile Val, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Botox will not be recommended for injection into the mandibular gland.   Injection of botox is not worth the risk of inducing facial nerve paralysis with each injection to that area due to nerves directly over the gland.

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi there It can likely help but that would not be recommended.  There maybe be unwanted side effects that out weigh the gland size.Always know the risk and benefit.Good luck

Liliana Marcu Awan, MD, FAAFP - Account Suspended · Answer

Yes Botox can shrink submandibular glands However please be careful injecting into that side It is not recommended Best of luck

Can Botox effectively reduce/shrink submandibular glands?

Answers (10)

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