A Guide To Masseter Botox

Masseter Botox involves the injection of Botox into the masseter muscle. The masseter muscle is one of four muscles that make up the masticatory apparatus (upper and lower jaw) and is a crucial part of the mouth, running down either side of the jawline. It helps elevate the mandible and aid in mastication (chewing). 

In some people, this muscle can become enlarged, resulting in headaches and jaw pain. Botox can be an excellent way to resolve this issue, helping reduce the size of the masseter muscle and relieve the pain caused by the condition. Pain caused by an enlarged masseter muscle is a common condition in the UK, and Botox is becoming an increasingly popular way to manage this issue. However, please remember that this is a medical procedure using a prescription-only medicine (Botox). As such, you should see a qualified and experienced medical practitioner who will ensure that this treatment will work for you and perform the treatment safely.  

In this guide, we talk about the masseter Botox procedure, the benefits it can provide patients and any possible side effects to expect. We will also look at the cost of the procedure and how long the treatment will last.  

What Is Masseter Botox? 

As touched upon, the masseter muscle is part of the group of muscles that helps you chew. It can become enlarged for a number of reasons, but regularly chewing gum and teeth grinding are the most common causes of the condition. Anything that causes overuse of the muscle can result in its enlargement. Masseter Botox involves the injection of Botox into the masseter muscle, resulting in temporary paralysis of the muscle. Botox relaxes the masseter muscle by blocking the signals between the nerves and muscle.  

There are two main reasons why people seek out masseter Botox treatment. Some people will get masseter Botox because it can reduce the appearance of a wide or square jaw and give more of a V-shaped lower face which they find more aesthetically pleasing. The second group mainly gets masseter Botox to prevent teeth grinding, tension in the jaw and headaches. There is also an overlap between both groups. Hyperactive masseter muscles (usually due to teeth grinding) often widen the appearance of the lower face and so the treatment both relieves their symptoms as well as restores the contour of their face. In any case, Botox when used by an experienced medical professional can be a safe and effective treatment for both medical and cosmetic purposes. 

Masseter Botox Before And After 

The results of masseter Botox, whether for cosmetic or medical reasons, are impressive. When used cosmetically, masseter Botox can give patients a more contoured and defined facial shape. The end result is slimming the jaw and lower face. 

When used as a treatment for pain, masseter Botox can provide relief from a range of jaw-related problems. Botox is a temporary treatment, so it is vital for patients to be aware that repeat procedures might be needed to maintain the result. The key benefits of masseter Botox include: 

• Preventing teeth grinding 
• Relief from headaches caused by teeth grinding
• Reduced jaw tension and pain 
• Jaw contouring 
• Balancing or slimming the face shape 

Masseter Botox Procedure 

It is normal to be nervous about any procedure, so it is a good idea to learn all you can about how it works. The first step is a consultation with a medical professional. During this consultation, they will ask you about what you want to get out of the procedure, and you can ask any questions you might have. Your doctor will also examine your face to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for you and to determine where the Botox injections will be best placed.  

During the procedure, your practitioner will clean the skin, and they may administer a local anaesthetic in the form of a topical cream. They will then gently insert the needle containing Botox into the masseter muscle and repeat on the other side if necessary. The process is typically quick and easy, normally over within 10-15 minutes. You shouldn’t feel any pain though you may feel a little discomfort around the injection site.  Some people experience relief straight away though this is usually due to the saline that the Botox is injected with. Usually, results take 2-3 weeks to reach peak effect but you may start to notice some small amounts of improvement after 2-3 days.

For more information, please read our article on what to expect from your first botox treatment.

Masseter Botox Aftercare And Recovery 

You will not need recovery time after the masseter Botox procedure and can resume normal activities straight away. However, there are important aftercare instructions to follow to ensure you get the best results from the masseter Botox. 

For the first 24 hours after the procedure, you should avoid vigorous exercising and rubbing or massaging the area. This will ensure that the Botox stays where it should be and has the best effect. It is also best to avoid using makeup for a few hours just to give the Botox injection sites time to heal.  

How Long Does Masseter Botox Last? 

Masseter Botox is not a permanent treatment, and the effects of the procedure will normally last anywhere from three to four months on average. Whether you’re having the treatment for cosmetic or medical reasons, you may find that you’ll need a top-up treatment after this time. For concerns like teeth grinding, you may not need continuous Botox, and many people use the treatment until they have broken the habit of teeth grinding or switch to using a mouth guard instead.  

Side Effects 

Botox is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, but with any treatment, there are possible risks and side effects. These side effects are significantly less severe and risky compared to surgical procedures, but it is still important to know what to be aware of. Possible side effects include: 

• Pain around the injection site 
• Swelling or bruising 
• Crooked smile 
• Drooling 
• Headache 
• Allergic reaction 
• Infection

Severe side effects are very rare, and most people experience very mild side effects or no side effects at all. If you have any concerns about side effects after your procedure, you should get in touch with your doctor immediately for advice and help.  

How Much Does Masseter Botox Cost?

The cost of treatments with masseter Botox injections can vary, and it is essential to remember that the fee you pay covers many different aspects. In London, masseter Botox prices can range from £250 to £500. The cost varies depending on the area being treated, the experience of the doctor and the location of the clinic. Any reputable clinic will also provide a consultation, aftercare and follow-up appointments. It is wise to be wary of any clinics advertising very low prices, as the price you pay often reflects the quality of the products, expertise or experience of the practitioner and quality of care provided. It may also not include follow-ups and top-ups after 3 weeks to enhance the effect or correct any asymmetry.

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Sources

https://www.insider.com/guides/health/treatments/masseter-botox

https://www.healthline.com/health/masseter-botox

https://cityskinclinic.com/obagi-skincare/obagi-treatment-menu/obagi-tretinoin/

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https://cityskinclinic.com/treatments/hyperpigmentation-treatment/

https://cityskinclinic.com/treatments/melasma-treatment/

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