Is Botox in the jaw muscle a good alternative to surgery?

Hello.  Botox is a nice treatment to slim the jaw if you have prominent masseters.  In fact, this is commonly done for Asians.  The average dose needed is 25-30 units per side.  I like Botox vs. surgery since Botox is super safe, where as jaw surgery is very aggressive, involves bony work and can lead to worse problems.  The only advantage of surgery is more significant changes and permanency.  But I believe it's better to use a safe in office procedure for this problem.  Take care.

Hi and thanks for your question. Botox does a great job at reducing the masseter muscles and breaking the habit of teeth grinding. We do this procedure in my office every day and our patients are very happy with the results. It takes 2 to 4 sessions of Botox to break the habit and many people will not need more injections after that. The Botox should be distributed throughout the muscle in small injections and the amount used will depend on the size of your muscles. Call the experienced injectors in your area. Ask them how frequently they do this procedure and ask to see their before and after pictures. Board certification does not matter. Experience does.

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  I do perform this type of Botox treatment routinely in patients that have both muscle hypertrophy (enlargement) or teeth grinding issues.  Treatment can help slim the masseter muscle while at times breaking the reflex of teeth grinding, especially if the temple muscles are also treated.  Be sure to see a specialist in consultation to discuss.

Hi dtracy,Botox is a great option for reducing the size and strength of the jaw muscles (masseters). You may also find that your teeth grinding improves as a result of the Botox. In our office we do this treatment quite a bit and generally see results about 6 weeks after treatment. Typically, results last approximately 6 months and sometimes even longer. I definitely recommend an experienced injector. Best of luck to you in your search!

Hello and thank your for your question!  Botox works very well to reduce the masseter muscles.  I would recommend a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in this type of procedure.  Typically, this will take a series of more than one treatment.   I have seen significant reduction in TMJ symptoms as well as reduction in  migraine headaches. The neurotoxin placed in these muscles does tend to last longer than the other cosmetic areas.  Our patients are very satisfied with the results of the neurotoxin helps sculpt the jawline.