Botox in the masseter muscle

What is Botox injected into the masseter muscle?
Muscle is fibrous tissue located in the human skeleton and within the structure of certain organs, forming the body and enabling bones to move, organs to perform vital functions, and the body to function regularly through contraction and relaxation. The human body has over 600 muscles, 60 of which are located in the facial region.

There are four masticatory muscles on each side of the face that enable proper chewing movements. Among these muscles, the masseter, mandible, and maxilla form the powerful four-cornered masseter muscle located on the outer side of the cheek. Its function is to lift the mandible so that the mouth can be closed.

The masseter muscle is important for both health and appearance. When the masseter muscle grows or thickens due to overuse and tension, problems such as teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching can arise, causing the face to become wider and more angular. Cosmetic procedures are performed on three different areas of the face: the upper, middle, and lower regions. Cosmetic interventions in the middle region are directly related to the masseter muscle.

The ideal chin shape differs between women and men. While a square jawline, which is associated with a strong personality, is more highly valued in men, a delicate and well-defined chin, which creates an impression of innocence, softness, and vitality, is considered aesthetically pleasing in women.

Botox is injected into the masseter muscles to soften a sharp jawline caused by the strengthening and thickening of these muscles, to give the lower part of the face a delicate and beautiful contour, and to address the problem of teeth grinding and clenching.

How does Botox affect the masseter muscle?
No special preparation is required before injecting Botox into the masseter muscle. Botox should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Patients who take blood thinners, have hypertension, take medication regularly, have skin problems or allergies, or have had previous surgeries in the facial area must inform the doctor of this before the procedure.

Botox injected into the subcutaneous muscles of the face using a cannula or fine needles weakens and relaxes the muscles. Since the injection site is numbed with gels and creams, the patient feels no pain either before or after the procedure; only a slight burning sensation and itching may be felt, which can be alleviated with an ice pack (cold compress). The masseter muscle, which thickens and grows due to overuse and tension, weakens and becomes thinner thanks to Botox. Thinner and reduced muscles make the face look more refined, soften the jawline, create delicate and beautiful facial contours, and also eliminate the problem of teeth grinding and clenching.

Daily life continues as usual in the days following Botox injections into the masseter muscles. However, during the first few days, you should avoid strenuous activities that require extra effort, as well as excessive heat, such as saunas. Pay attention to your sleeping position: do not lie face down, and do not rub the Botox injection sites.

Who can receive Botox injections into the masseter muscle?
Botox can be administered to all healthy adults, except for pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding.

Botox can be injected into the masseter muscles of healthy individuals who suffer from health issues such as teeth grinding and clenching, or for those who desire a sharp and wide jawline and wish to give the lower part of their face an aesthetically refined and beautiful appearance.

How long does it take to administer Botox injections into the masseter muscle?
The procedure takes 15–30 minutes, depending on the area. There is no need for hospitalization after the procedure, and patients can resume their normal daily activities. They can return to work the same day.

How long does the effect of Botox last in the masseter muscle?
The effects of Botox begin to appear after just one week, but the desired results are achieved after about 6 weeks. Botox, which lasts for 4–6 months, is administered into the masseter muscles in a single session. However, for a more effective and longer-lasting effect, it can be administered 3 times over a period of 3–4 weeks. Repeated treatments, sun protection, or the use of a moisturizing cream can help prolong the effects of Botox.