25/F and 12 months ago, I had Botox in my masseter muscles, now slight sagging skin and 'hamster' cheeks. Will this go away?

Question

I have always had a very round, chubby 'baby face' and I am the correct weight for my height and so, I decided 'v line Botox' in the masseter muscle would give me a more heart shaped, defined face, and less rounded. It has been 12 months and the lower half of my face is appearing even chubbier than 12 months ago, with more excess skin causing a slight double chin and an undefined jaw line... Is this caused by the Botox and will it ever go back to the way it was before when the muscle strengthens again?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, it is important to emphasize that Botox works on muscles and is not for shrinking fat or skin reshaping or recontouring. When used for masseter (chewing muscle) hypertrophy, which may be genetic (as in Asian women) or from teeth grinding (bruxism), Botox can help to diminish the hypertrophy of the masseter muscles that can make for a wider, bottom-heavy face. It will NOT work, nor is appropriate for treating skin laxity-related jowls or excess fat in the lower face.  From what you have written, I would guess that masseter hypertrophy may not have been the primary issue. I would suggest that you consult with a board certified aesthetic physician to discuss possible treatment options such as the use of injectable volumizing and lifting fillers to whatever regions may need it--such as  the cheeks, jawline and chin region--in order to create or reestablish the more ideal, heart-shaped face you desire. Best of luck.

Misbah Khan MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

its very likely that the skin laxity was present even before you got the Botox in the cheek muscles. and that it became rather pronounced after the injections. Im not sure if the laxity will improve after the Botox has worn off. you need to be evaluated in person. and it would be better to take a look at your photos before you had the Botox injections.

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

12 months after your last Botox treatment, it is unlikely that the Botox you had injected into the masseters is responsible for the changes you see in your face. I recommend an in person consultation with an experienced aesthetic physician to discuss your cosmetic concerns and to formulate an appropriate treatment plan. Good luck.

Steven M. Daines, MD, FACS · Answer

The changes you are seeing in your face one year after Botox in your masseter muscles are not due to the Botox treatment. Consider a consultation with a board certified facial plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns further.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

It is highly unlikely that Botox is the cause of the changes in your face. The Masseter muscle is a very robust muscle that always comes back to its full strength after approximately three months. You should be evaluated by a plastic surgeon like myself in person. Good luck from New York City

25/F and 12 months ago, I had Botox in my masseter muscles, now slight sagging skin and 'hamster' cheeks. Will this go away?

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25/F and 12 months ago, I had Botox in my masseter muscles, now slight sagging skin and 'hamster' cheeks. Will this go away?

Answers (7)

Answer: Masseter Botox

Answer: Masseter Botox

Answer: Botox question

Answer: Botox question

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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.