Botox in the Masseter Muscle? Plus I've been told I have high cheekbones? (photos)

Question

I recently lost a good bit of weight and the only place that wont slim out for me is my face. I have reached my target weight so I can no longer keep losing. I have read a lot online about Botox in the masseter muscle that will help with face slimming. Would I be a good candidate and how much units is needed to see results? I understand ye can't give me a straight answer without seeing me in person but I'd settle for an educated guess, until I make a consultation appointment.

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Botox in the masseter region usually takes longer than in the standard areas to take effect. I tend to use anywhere from 15 units (conservative treatment) to 50 units (for someone with really strong masseters) on each side to get the desired result. It may start within the first week but I tell my patients to wait three weeks before doing a more thorough evaluation. The treatment typically lasts longer than the forehead/crows feet/frown regions. It is also a gradual onset of the return of masseter function. I have tried the masseter injections myself and space the treatments around 4 months apart, but use smaller doses to maintain the effect. I normally know the effects are wearing down when I start to clench my teeth more heavily at night when asleep.  Once you stop using Botox, the masseter muscles will return to their original baseline when the effects of Botox  wears off completely.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox for masseter reduction will certainly reduce the fullness along the angles of your mandible - where the masseter muscle attaches to your jaw.  A typical starting dose for Botox is 25 units on each side.  The most significant slimming effect will be experienced in the first month, and will continue for 3-4 months while the Botox is active.  In addition to Botox, you may benefit from buccal fat removal, which would reduce the fullness of your cheeks and help to create more definition for your cheekbones.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I think fillers are great for you and botox would be successful.  It would be best to see a facial contouring expert to come up with a short and long term plan of treatments that will be both antiaging and give you immediate results.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Sean R. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox to the masseter muscles can be an effective way of slimming the jawline in some patients. The results are best in thin patients with Good skin elasticity and little fat in the face.  You need an in person evaluation to determine your candidacy for the procedure. However, based on your photo my concern would be that injection at the masseter muscle will not accomplish your goal of creating a more narrow jaw line. It may actually accentuate your jowl region if you do not have great elasticity to your skin.

Sandra M. Johnson, MD · Answer

Congrats on your weight loss.  Many patients enjoy botox injections into the masseter to help wtih jaw pain, TMJ, etc. It can slim the face but there are other options you may like better. I encourage you to meet with an expereinced cosmetic surgeon who understands your needs. Stay skintastic.

Edward Szachowicz, MD, PhD · Answer

Repeated Botox injections in the masseter muscles will reduce the bulk of the muscle. I find this most helpful for those who cause the muscles to enlarge as they clench and/or grind their teeth, especially while sleeping.When your skin is tight and elastic, the reduction in the muscle bulk of the masseter muslces with Botox can help shape the face. However, if the skin is lax, reducing the volume of the masseter muscles may add to the jowl along the jawline.

Botox in the Masseter Muscle? Plus I've been told I have high cheekbones? (photos)

Answers (6)

More Botox Questions

What is the best treatment for a chin dimple? (Photo)

Is there a limit to how many times you can have Botox? Once your brows have dropped one time, is that it for you ?

Option for asymmetrical eyebrows? (Photo)

Would Botox help with teeth clenching?

I think I have a very rare condition called: chromhidrosis. Any suggestions for treatment? (photos)

Had botox in beginning of May. I was able to drive my car up until five days later. Will I ever be able to drive again

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS