Do I have over enlarged masseter muscles?

Question

I'm not sure if this is a case of enlarged massester muscles or my face is just round.. I am worried I clench my jaw at night or grind my teeth.

Kian Karimi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photos. It is difficult to assess your masseters based on the photo alone. An in-person evaluation is necessary in order to determine the strength of your muscles. If your muscles are strong and protrude from your jawline, Botox is an excellent way to weaken the muscle for a softer look. This involves several injections in each masseter, however the amount will depend on your muscle strength which is determined by your provider. Results from Botox last between 3-4 months at which time the procedure can be repeated. For more information about Botox injections, I recommend consulting with a board-certified specialist.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell from your photos. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. If the masseter is enlarged, Botox can slim the jawline. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Kevin M. Robertson, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox works well when used systematically for masseter enlargement, meaning you have to use significant amounts and you need to stick with it to see the full potential. So unlike other areas of the face like the glabella where the results are clear within a week or two, masseters take more time and commitment.  That said you don't have huge masseter volume specifically on your left.  That jawline is softer, less angular.  And like all faces, you have asymmetry to the jawline where your right is more angular or pronounced. So it is possible to use botox on this side (right) in order to restore more symmetry.  I would definitely advise you not to consider it on your left.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  You do not appear to have a significant case of enlarged masseters, but an in-person examination would offer you the best diagnosis and advice.  Be sure to see an ASPS board certified plastic surgeon in consultation.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to give you advice from looking at your photographs. However, if you are grinding you teeth or clenching your jaw you may benefit from Botox to the masseter muscles. I recommend having a consultation with an expert injector to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Jared Mallalieu, DO · Answer

Thanks for asking your question. It is somewhat difficult to assess from the photo. It is best seen in a formal evaluation where the provider can have you clench your teeth. Botox is a wonderful option for softening the area if needed. Best of luck, Dr. M

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is difficult to say just from the photos, but if it is then Botox might be a nice way to soften the look.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

It looks as if you have enlarged masseter muscle and could benefit from Botox in this area.  It would take about 20 units in each side.  I would consult a board certified dermatologist who is an expert in Botox to perform the procedure.  Best, Dr. Green

Victor Chung, MD · Answer

The masseter muscles are strong jaw muscles that clench your teeth together for chewing. Overactive muscles get bigger just like any other muscle that you exercise. A hypertrophic masseter can create wideness of your face. To determine this your need to be examined with a relaxed face and when you clench your jaw.  Botox injections cannot help if your masseters are normal in size. I would have a consultation to determine treatment options appropriate for your face. Safety comes first.

Pauline Scott, MD, MBA · Answer

From  your pictures, I do not think you have hypertrophied masseter muscles, but you would need to be evaluated by a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for complete evaluation. One sign of bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) is waking up with jaw pain and headaches. If you have this symptom, I would recommend seeing a dentist as you may need a custom mouth guard to protect your teeth from further damage. A mouth guard will not alleviate the painful side effects of Bruxism, so this is where Botox injections into the masseters would be helpful. Keep in mind that if you do get Botox masseter injections, this will reduce the size of the muscle, thereby slimming the jawline. Good luck!

Do I have over enlarged masseter muscles?

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