Cause of lump after Botox injection in masseter? (Photo)

Question

I got 25 units botox injected in each side of my masseter 3 weeks ago. For a week after my jaw was extremely swollen on both side. The swelling has reduced since then but there is still a visible bulge when i clench my jaw. Could it be a hematoma or seroma? Would massaging it help? The doctor did 2 injection sites on each side and also had me keep my jaw clenched during the injection which i thought was strange. Its funny my jaw is actually bigger than it was after getting botox..

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell from your picture. I recommend following up with your injector. Botox results resolve in 3-4 months. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Michael S. Mall, MD · Answer

First, thank you for you questions and picture. Before making a diagnosis as to what this could be, I strongly recommend you return to your injector and allow them to examine the area.  To answer your questions, it is possible for the lump to be a hematoma or seroma and massaging may help; however, be gentle and do return to your injector.

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

It could be a couple of things. There is a chance that it may be a hematoma. A seroma is unlikely. The other possibility is that your injector may have weakened only part of the muscle and what you are noticing is the areas that were not weakened by your injection. The only way to determine the actual cause is to be examined in person. I would recommend following up with your doctor. Best wishes.

Steven H. Dayan, MD · Answer

Dear yuke14,

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to make an accurate assessment and recommendations based on photographs alone. I recommend you seek further repeat evaluation with your provider to address your concerns. Swelling at the site of injection could be due to a number of causes including hematoma. In our practice, we also typically ask patients to clench their jaw prior to injection so we can best localize the muscle.

Asaf Yalif, MD, FACS · Answer

As noted below it is likely a hematoma in the muscle. Consult with the injecting physician as to how they would like you to address it.

Cause of lump after Botox injection in masseter? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Botox: Masseters

Answer: Botox: Masseters

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

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.

Cause of lump after Botox injection in masseter? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Botox: Masseters

Answer: Botox: Masseters

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

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.