Can botox relieve TMJ and change face shape?

Question

I had botox injected into both sides of my jaw a week ago and today I have a bit of a double chin and my jaw line seems less pronounced. Am I seeing things or did the Botox in my jaw change my face shape?

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

You probably are noticing some slimming of the lower face as a result of the Botox treatment.  I hope your doctor mentioned that this was a possibility.  It happens when Botox is injected into the masseter muscle and there is less fullness of the muscle.  This translates into a thinner appearance of the lower third of the outer face.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox for masseter reduction can reduce the width of the lower third of the face, most markedly along the sides of the jaw.  This can change the shape of a "square" jaw to more of a "V-line".  Most of the time this effect is desirable, but with certain anatomies this can create an untoward cosmetic outcome.  Botox will exert its effect for 3-4 months, after which time your pre-treatment appearance should gradually return.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Botox if injected along the jawline and into the massetter muscles can cause the shape of the face to change.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Lorrie Klein, MD · Answer

Botox can help some cases of TMJ and also for softening a square or pronounced jawline.  Some women, most commonly of Asian descent, seek this type of treatment.

Mariusz Sapijaszko, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Botox injections can slim the base but, in some people, depending on the anatomy, can result in loose skin. If that is the case, I would recommend that you see your doctor.I hope that helps and best regards, Dr. Sapijaszko.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

People with enlarged masseters have a rounded face. This can be changed by injecting them with Botox. It will slim the face down and appear more aesthetically pleasing. This also helps tension in the tmj area.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

The answer is depends. If your bulk is due to masseteric hypertrophy, the answer is yes- this is the foundation of V shape face for the Korean trend. Now, Botox in someone who has skin laxity to begin with will displace skin - due to the loss of volume (in this case muscle). Its important to discuss this with your patients BEFORE Botox is administered. Solutions are possible to rejuvenate the jawline with volume replacement and creation of the gonal angle - see a dermatologist or plastics in the future. Dr Davin S. Lim

Can botox relieve TMJ and change face shape?

Answers (7)

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