How to know if Botox in masseters is working/enough?

Question

I got 18 units in each masseter two days ago and I was just wondering how I'm supposed to know if it's enough. Like I think I can clench just as hard as normal so how do I know it's paralyzing enough of the muscle? Also, how would I know when it's wearing off and I need more?

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

The way to determine if there is enough correction and when is it wearing off is how you think it looks. You will be able to clench because the muscle is not completely paralyzed only weakened. rely on the mirror

Faiyaaz Kalimullah, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question, and congratulations on your recent Botox treatment!  Generally speaking, it takes approximately 3 days to feel the initial effects of Botox, and up to 14 days for the full, muscle-weakening effects of Botox to fully kick in.  That said, when we treat the masseters, we're generally trying to either reduce teeth clenching/grinding or we're trying to slim the jawline.  The goal with these treatments is never to fully paralyze the muscle, otherwise you would have difficulty chewing and speaking.  Many patients don't even feel any muscle weakness with the doses we typically use in the masseters.If the goal of your treatment was to slim your jawline, it will take a little longer to see results.  Botox slims the jawline by inducing atrophy, or muscle shrinkage, in the masseters - this process can take several weeks.  Give it a few more weeks to see the results of your treatment, and please follow-up with your injector if you are still concerned.  Best of luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

First, botos takes about 5-7 days for it to work. Second for the masseter muscle to atrophy a bit, it may take repeated treatment over a series of months to see it atrophy a bit. It is often not a "one and done" treatment.

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

Great question! Two days is too soon to see the results of the Botox injection to the masseter muscles. It can take up to 14 days for the Botox to take its full effect and then you will notice weakening of the muscle. Slimming (atrophy) of the muscle can take longer. I recommend you give it some more time before assessing the results. Good luck!

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

it is normal for Botox affect to take approximately three to five days . It may in fact take longer in the masseter at is it is a very large muscle. Be patient and give this about a week and see what happens. 
Good luck from New York City

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question veralina. Botox is a purified protein used to address wrinkles associated with
facial expression. Botox can also be placed in the masseter muscle in the lower face to contour the face or help with teeth grinding or clenching and TMJ pain. Full effects are seen at 2 weeks. Results are assessed by photographs and measurement of pain. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

How to know if Botox in masseters is working/enough?

Answers (6)

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