Jaw popping after Botox in masseters for facial slimming?

Question

I had 15 units of botox on each of my masseters for a facial slimming effect about a week ago. Today my jaw has been popping when I chew and it is very uncomfortable. I am not in pain the popping just feels foreign and I know it cannot be healthy especially since I wasn't experiencing the popping before the botox. I also read an article recently that implicates long term botox use in the masseters to cause jaw joint problems later on. Is the popping uncommon side effect? Should I be concerned?

Nicolette Picerno, MD · Answer

hello. I agree with some other answers that this may have been a pre-existing condition that for some reason is worse now.  I usually use at least 30 units to each masseter and bring patients back in 2-4 weeks for reassessment.  Many times they need 20 more units to each side. Therefore, it is unlikely that 15 units is enough to cause any issue with your jaw joint.  Botox in higher doses can help with TMJ and clenching so perhaps you had some issues with this that you did not realize and it has now become apparent. At any rate, these units will wear off pretty quickly and you will back to your normal self soon. Best of luck! Dr. Picerno

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

Rest assured that this is most likely no due to your treatment with BOTOX.  For jaw slimming, most of use at least 30-50 units/side and so this is a very conservative and likely ineffective number of units to do anything.  As such, it is unlikely that your symptoms have anything to do with BOTOX.I hope that helps and wish you the very best!-Gregory A Buford MD FACSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is unlikely due to your Botox treatment. If it persists, I recommend following up with your Doctor. Botox results will resolve in 3-4 months. Best, Dr. Emer

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Jaw popping is probably not related to your small dose of Botox. Since you only had this treatment once and that does not qualify as "long term" patient. All treatments have side effects and risks so carefully weight the benefits of Botox for your masseters with your doctor/injector.  Your popping symptoms should be temporary, but if it continues see a specialist about jaw issues.
Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Genevieve F. Caron, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question
15 unit sound like a regular to low dose, I don't think your botox injection is to blame for your jaw problem. You should follow up with your doctor or a maxillofacial surgeon for a complete assessment.
Best Wishes
Dr Genevieve FCaron, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Montreal, Canada

Jaw popping after Botox in masseters for facial slimming?

Answers (6)