Do I have hypertrophied masseter muscles?

Question

I've always had a very wide, square jaw, and I feel like it makes me unattractive. I'm trying to figure out how to get a slimmer, v-shaped face, and one option I've heard about is injecting Botox into the master muscles. My question is, how do I know whether Botox would help me? What if my face is wide because of my bone structure or something? I don't want to pay hundreds of dollars for Botox and see no results. Any advice? Thanks in advance!

Edward P. Miranda, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question and photo! The photo you posted is appreciated, but it is difficult to fully diagnose your issue without seeing you in person.  There is a chance you have a 'hypertrophied' masseter muscle, which would be amendable to neurotoxin to help slim the jaw. If this is the case then you'd be a great candidate for neurotoxin injections, but there are also other factors that could contribute to jaw/cheek protrusion that would need to be physically evaluated.

Elham Jafari, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question! From the posted picture you might have a bulky master muscle (which is expected to respond to jaw slimming with Botox) but it is impossible to tell for sure without seeing you in person and performing an exam since other non-muscle tissues and bone structure can also result in similar look. It can be determined easily If you are a candidate for Botox when you see an experienced doctor. I hope it helps and good luck!

David W. Rodwell III, MD · Answer

It is definitely possible to gain a more slim appearance to the face when treating large overactive masseter muscles. Photographs cannot provide enough information.  I suggest that any patient considering this type of treatment either for the cosmetic improvement or for the improvement in TMJ symptoms should see an experienced doctor who can fully evaluate the area in person.

Mariusz Sapijaszko, MD, FRCPC · Answer

There are several ways that we can make face look slimmer and more "V" Shaped.These are both surgical and non-surgical and, in most cases, non-surgical options can really deliver excellent results. Botox and fillers are great choices and in right hands can be very helpful. Please make sure that you see an experienced doctor for a thorough consultation and assessment prior to undergoing any treatments.Best regards and I hope this helps, Dr. Sapijaszko.

Heather Lee, MD · Answer

At an office consultation, your physician should be able to quickly evaluate whether or not your masseter muscle is hypertrophied or enlarged and whether you would benefit from Botox injections. 
Best of Luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Botox and radiofrequency treatments can help slim the jawline. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Scott K. Thompson, MD · Answer

Greetings,
Although it appears in your photo that you would be a good candidate for masseter muscle botox injections, it is difficult to know for sure without an in person consultation with a physician who specializes in these treatments.  I would recommend making an appointment (or more than one appointment) so that you can be evaluated completely.  Good luck.

Neil Sadick, MD · Answer

Hi- from the picture it is hard to tell whether your condition is due to muscle or skeletal structure. You are best positioned to consult a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss potential options to achieve a slimmer v-shaped face.

Faraz Valaie, MD · Answer

Hi, 
Thanks for the question. 
To diagnose masseter hypertrophy, the best is to to get physically examined by a physician and he/she will exam when you are relaxed and when you are clenching your teeth, then you are sure if you are a candidate for that treatment or not.  
I recommend making an appointment with your cosmetic physician to have he or she examine.
Hope this was helpful!

Paul Blair, MD · Answer

Judging by your photograph. I would say you do not have hypertrophic masseter muscles.  I'm doubtful Botox, Dysport or Xeomin would be helpful.  Obtain a consult with an experience facial plastic surgeon and see what the surgeon recommends.

Do I have hypertrophied masseter muscles?

Answers (15)

More Botox Questions

Dry sore eyes after Botox? Two days ago I got botox on my forehead and my crows feet areas.

How many units of Botox for a slight tip of nose lift? (Photos)

How many units of Botox to shrink masseter muscles? (Photos)

Does Botox cause loss of hair?

Botox and emotion: heavy feeling in the forehead -- when will this wear off?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS