Botox to balance asymmetry in jaw/masseter caused by previously broken mandible/malocclusion? (photo)

Question

My jaw was broken 5+ years ago and since then my occlusion has never been the same. Ive been noticing heavy wear from my teeth over the past year and I believe asymmetry in my masseter due to my offbite. I know it would be ideal to fix the real cause of asymmetry with orthognathic surgery but i can't afford it at the time. I kind of want a quick fix for the time being and wondering if botox is even worth it in my situation.

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

Botox is effective for thinning contours of masseter hypertrophy and can be therapeutic for many "bite" issues such as TMJ pain and nocturnal grinding.  The effect is temporary, but may last as long as 6 months or more after injection in some cases.

Alexander Rivkin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and sharing your photo.   It appears that you have masseteric hypertrophy (enlargement of the masseter – muscle of the jaw), more prominently on your left side.  Commonly, an unaligned bite can cause the over-contraction and spasm of the masseter muscle(s) and makes patients prone to clinching and grinding.  This often results in severe headache, jaw, or ear pain, and facial muscle widening.   Botox to the masseters is a common treatment that I perform to help patients with temporalmandibular joint (TMJ) pain relief and masseter reduction.  I typically recommend 20-24 botox units per side every 3-4 months for a year to help reduce the size of the masseter and subsequently break the cycle of clinching and grinding.  At times, patients require continued treatments beyond the 1-year mark for continued symptom relief.  Because your left masseter is more prominent, you may find that you require a smaller dose (12-18 botox units) on the right side.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, Botox in combination with radiofrequency can be used to slim the masseter and improve symmetry. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes. Botox in the masseter muscle with improve asymmetry and help to stop the grinding. Could be a less expensive "quick" fix for now. Keep in mind, however, that it only lasts about 4-6 months. Best of luck.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

From the photos it appears that Botox into the left masseter will help even the appearance of your face. Be sure to see a board certified dermatologist who is experienced in its use

Botox to balance asymmetry in jaw/masseter caused by previously broken mandible/malocclusion? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Botox for grinding

Answer: Botox for grinding

Answer: Asymmetry and Botox

Answer: Asymmetry and Botox

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Botox to balance asymmetry in jaw/masseter caused by previously broken mandible/malocclusion? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Botox for grinding

Answer: Botox for grinding

Answer: Asymmetry and Botox

Answer: Asymmetry and Botox

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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.