Botox for Bruxism - As a Side Effect Will This Also Slim the Face?

Question

Hi there, I had 25 units of botox injected to the masseters (in each side - 50 units in total) - to help with bruxism. However, I've since learnt botox to the masseters can also slim the face. I have quite a thin/narrow face so am a bit worried about slimming my jawline any further. Is 25 units a big dose? Is there a chance this can just help with bruxism, without slimming down my jawline too much? Thank you!

William Numa, MD, FACS · Answer

It is common to have Botox injected in the muscles of mastication as part of the treatment for bruxism (teeth grinding).  It is unlikely that the dose you mention will cause any significant changes to your facial contour.

Alternatives include the option of wearing a mouth-guard generated by your dental specialist.  Of course you must remember to wear it consistently in order to have it be effective, and compliance with this is challenging for a number of people.

A proper evaluation including an examination a Board-Certified specialist can help determine what the appropriate next steps can and should be.

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is possible that Botox may slim down your jawline and 25 units per each side is not a big dose.  I would recommend consulting under a Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon for safest and best treatment option.  I hope this helps.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

From the amount you've had injected, I wouldn't think you'd have any significant change in the size of your masseter muscles. Typically the doses are much larger for masseter reduction and 20 Units per side (or around that amount) is indicated for TMJ and/or bruxism.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

25 units of Botox per side is a pretty standard dose for masseter reduction.  You will notice some degree of slimming to your face because as a natural result of treating the masseter muscle with Botox, it will become smaller.

Mabrie Facial Institute | San Francisco · Answer

Hi Vanessadoll, thank you for your question! 25 units of Botox to each masseter muscle is an average dose. The Botox will weaken the muscle inhibiting it from fully contracting, while the muscle is unable to fully contract it will slowly begin to decrease in size (atrophy). The amount it will atrophy varies patient to patient and depends on the mass and strength of the muscle initially. 
I created a video that reviews treating masseter muscles with botox. I hope you find this information helpful in your research!

Botox for Bruxism - As a Side Effect Will This Also Slim the Face?

Answers (7)

Answer: Masseter reduction with Botox

Answer: Masseter reduction with Botox

Answer: Botox to masseter muscles

Answer: Botox to masseter muscles

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Botox for Bruxism - As a Side Effect Will This Also Slim the Face?

Answers (7)

Answer: Masseter reduction with Botox

Answer: Masseter reduction with Botox

Answer: Botox to masseter muscles

Answer: Botox to masseter muscles

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.