Do I need masseter botox or weight loss?

Question

My dermatologist said i could benefit from masseter botox but i already have what looks like a little bit of jowls due to weight gain and im worried that the botox will increase the jowls further. I am about 18 pounds overweight so im currently trying to lose this as the jowling has increased since weight gain. Should i lose weight first before getting botox?

David Yew, MD · Answer

However - it would be better for you to lose weight for your own health independent of how it looks.
From the photo - I can not assess the jowls but it does appear that your masseter muscles are enlarged. If you suffer from clenching or grinding with jaw tension or headaches - then Botox in the TMJ (Temporo-mandibular) area can help while slimming the face. It's important to find an experienced provider who's been injecting these areas for at least 5 years or longer. So many providers are learning this - that if you get injected wrong - you can have a crooked smile for 4 months.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If your masseter muscles are large, you should be able to feel them move outward when you clench your jaw. When this is the case, Botox injections can lead to a less oval facial appearance. I hope this is helpful. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Do I need masseter botox or weight loss?

Answers (2)