Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy? (photo)

Question

Hi, 2 years ago right side of my jaw suddenly started to gettin bigger. I went to doctor, they told me that it might be "masseter muscle hypertrophy" and they dont know any cure for it, but in most cases it will disappear within 1 year so i just need to wait. Its been more than 2 years and its still same. I dont have any problems with that, but its ugly and people always ask me about it and its drive me crazy. Do you have some ideas what can help me to get rid of this problem ? Thanks for your advices.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

While an in-person exam would be necessary to definitively make the diagnosis, if the fullness is in fact due to hypertrophy of your masseter muscle, then Botox can safely and effectively be used to reduce the size of this muscle.

Mabrie Facial Institute | San Francisco · Answer

Hi lukest, thank you for sharing your photo and questions. Botox is a great treatment for anyone looking to treat masseter muscle hypertrophy. Botox to this muscle diminishes it's ability to contract as strongly, causing the muscle to decrease in size (atrophy) over time. The effects of Botox last approximately 3-4 months at which time the muscle will slowly begin to regain it's strength and increase in size (hypertrophy). 
I've created a video that reviews treating the masseter muscles with Botox. I hope this information is helpful in your research!

Jill C. Fichtel, MD · Answer

Masseter muscle hypertrophy may occur over long periods of time because of teeth grinding (bruxism). In other cases, larger masseter muscles may have a genetic cause.Botox injections to the masseter are commonly used to treat bruxism, jaw pain, or headache. Sometimes, Botox can cause atrophy of the muscle as a side effect. I often harness that side effect for patients like you and use it to decrease the size of the masseter. The result is improved facial contour on that side of the face which creates a more symmetric appearance.As I tell everyone, it’s crucial to choose a Dermatologist who is experienced in using Botox to atrophy the masseter.  This is the most important decision you’ll make to ensure good cosmetics results with minimal side effects.

Niels C. Krejci, MD · Answer

You may want to consult your dentist if bruxism (grinding teeth) is part of your problem. Bruxism can have a range of causes and depending on the cause different treatments are available.

Harry V. Wright, MD · Answer

The masseter lies superficial to the mandible and thus plays an important role in facial aesthetics. A hypertrophied masseter can alter facial lines and thus have a negative impact. It is important to have a throrough work-up since parotiditis, tumors, etc. can present in a similar way.Selective injections of small doses of Botox can help relax and eventually atrophy the muscle. Alternately the muscle can be surgically debulked.Seek
out a consultation with a Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon or Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon.Harry V. Wright MD

Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy? (photo)

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Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Masseter hypertrophy

Answer: Masseter hypertrophy

Answer: Masseter hypertrophy

Answer: Masseter hypertrophy

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Everything you need to know about Botox

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