Botox for Masseter Reduction
As a muscle relaxer, Botox® Cosmetic is a popular anti-aging treatment that reduces the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles caused by dynamic expressions. When injected into the masseter muscle, Botox can also slim down your jawline and manage pain caused by teeth grinding and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
How does Botox work for masseter reduction?
Botox relaxes the masseter muscle by blocking signals from the nerve to the muscle to prevent movement. Once injected, the overactive masseter muscle stops exerting pressure and is no longer overworked. As a result, it relaxes and shrinks back, causing your jawline to appear slimmer and more defined.
For women, Botox to the masseter muscle makes their face shape more feminine.
In addition to face slimming, the thinning of the muscle alleviates teeth grinding, headaches, and other symptoms of TMJ.
Where do you inject Botox for jawline reduction?
Botox injections are made in the belly of the masseter muscle on the side of the face. The muscle connects the cheekbone to your lower jawbone. You can feel the its firmness and bulge along the side of the jaw when you clench your teeth down.
What to expect on the day of the injection?
Botox for masseter is typically a quick and easy procedure in our dermatology office. It usually takes about 15 minutes to complete. Our dermatologists and physician assistants use an ultrafine needle to inject the appropriate amount of Botox on the masseter (both sides of the jaw). The needle is so small that most patients find the procedure tolerable without the need for topical numbing, and they report only a minor pinprick sensation. Once your treatment is complete, you are free to return to your regular activities.
What is the recovery process for masseter reduction?
As minimally invasive procedures, Botox treatments don’t require any recovery time. You can return to your normal activities after your treatment. Many of our patients undergo jaw reduction on their lunch break and return to work immediately.
Botox aftercare encourages optimal results while minimizing the risk of bruising and swelling. On the day of your procedure, we recommend you:
- Leave the treated area alone
- Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area
- Maintain a normal heart rate
- Wait at least 24 hours to exercise
How many units of Botox are required for jawline reduction?
The amount of Botox Cosmetic needed for jawline reduction ranges between 20 and 30 units per side, depending on the thickness or strength of the muscle. Your provider may begin with a low dose and reassess after two weeks. If there is still enlargement, another 10 units per side could be injected.
How much is masseter Botox?
Masseter Botox cost depends on several factors, including the number of Botox units required, your provider’s experience and qualifications, and the location of the medical spa.
Side effects of masseter Botox
Please remember that the best way to minimize risks and complications is to work with a highly experienced provider. Your main concern should be your doctor’s expertise to ensure the safest and best results possible.
Botox injections are relatively safe when performed by an experienced provider. Side effects are uncommon and should be mild and temporary, including:
- Bruising, swelling, and mild pain around the injection site
- Headache
- Flu-like symptoms
- Crooked smile or drooling
- Numbness or weakness in nearby muscles
Alternatives to Botox for your jawline
We also offer Dysport® and Xeomin® as options for a neuromodulator for jawline reduction. Your dermatologist can recommend the appropriate neuromodulator for you after an initial consultation.
Consider masseter Botox with our New York City dermatologists
Our highly trained and experienced board-certified dermatologists would like to help you look and feel your best through comprehensive medical care and the most effective cosmetic dermatology treatments, including masseter Botox. To learn more about how Botox can enhance your appearance and relieve symptoms of TMJ, contact Spring Street Dermatology, with two convenient locations in Soho, NYC, and Uptown, NYC, to schedule a consultation.