What is the difference between Botox for TMJ vs. for jaw slimming?

Question

I'm interested in this treatment for TMJ but in my research it seems to be referred to differently depending on the desired outcome. Is there actually a difference in treatments?

David Yew, MD · Answer

To answer your question - TMJ is a syndrome of symptoms that either cause headache, tension or clenching in the Temporo-Mandibular Joint area.  Other people refer to it as TMD (D is for Disorder) and there are other variants as well.   It's important to find an experienced provider as most practices only treat the masseter muscle.  Sometimes - people require treatment in the temporal area as well if you are experiencing pain in that area.   As a sufferer myself from TMJ headaches - it has helped tremendously.  Most people require 20-25 units per side initially ($240-$300/side).   The dosing and pricing will taper down as the effects cause the muscle to get smaller in size.   These treatments will make the face look slimmer in approximately 3-4 weeks and has the added benefit of reducing tension for people with headaches, grinding teeth and TMJ.   The effects can last 4-5 months.

Erin Smith, MD · Answer

Depending on your desired outcome, the neuromodulator dose and placement may be changed to help achieve improvement in function versus aesthetics. Discuss with your treating provider on which options are best for you.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

on the external surface they are the same however in some instances botox is done internally through the mouth for those with severe TMJ to the pterygoid muscles and then its a different procedure. you will get lower face slimming so consider fillers if you like a more squared jawline contour versus oval/slender.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  The treatments are largely the same for patients but injections other than the masseter muscle alone may be done for TMJ.  Hope this helps.

Julie Shelley, DO · Answer

Botox for TMJ and jaw slimming both include injections into the masseter muscle. Because of this, the masseter muscle weakens, typically resulting in some jaw slimming. The dose of the treatment will vary depending on how strong the masseter muscle is and if the injections are performed with the purpose of alleviating clenching causing TMJ or simply for jaw slimming. Treatment of TMJ with Botox also may include injections into other muscles of the face related to the joint such as the temporalis. I hope this helps!

- Dr. Julie Shelley, Oklahoma City, OK

- Dr. Julie Shelley, Oklahoma City, OK

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

By treating the masseter muscle, we typically see reduced TMJ pain, less grinding, and less headaches/migraines. At the same time, there is typically some jaw slimming which occurs since the masseter becomes less bulky and thus takes up less space.

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

They are essentially the same procedure involving Botox injection to the masseter muscles. Both symptomatic relief as well as reduction of masseter muscle bulk are a result of the treatment. The reduction in muscle size also helps slim the lower face.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

Patients who exhibit painful tooth grinding and TMJ pain frequently receive Botox to relax the muscle which causes the problem. After the treatment with botox and similar products, there is significant slimming noticed in the frontal view of the face. I hope this answers your question and good luck from New York City plastic surgery

Perry Liu, MD FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Botox to treat TMJ and for cosmetic facial slimming is the same procedure. The only difference will be in the reason for getting your botox injections in you masseter muscles. Botox to the masseters will both reduce the size and strength of your masseters, thereby making your face look slimmer and keep the muscle from causing TMJ symptoms.

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Portland,Thanks for the question.Botox for TMJ involves putting injections near the TMJ joint, more posterior on the jawline.Jawline definition and slimming involves the entire line from earlobe to the chin. Botox, fillers, liposuction and skin tightening technologies may all be potential tools to define the jawline.Best. Dr Brecht

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