Logan Steele
The masseter muscle, one of the muscles of mastication, runs from the cheekbone down to the lower jaw on each side of the face, helping us to chew food and move our jaw while speaking. Enlarged masseter muscles can lead to an undesired square jawline, which may result in an asymmetrical face. This is often caused by teeth grinding, hard chewing, or unconsciously clenching the jaw. Masseter reduction is an effective procedure to achieve a slimmer or more feminine facial appearance. Non-surgical methods include injectable treatments such as Botox or Dysport, which relax the muscle so it is not overexerted. Surgical methods involve making incisions on the inside of the mouth to reshape the jaw bone and masseter muscle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of enlarged masseter muscles | Teeth grinding, hard chewing, or unconsciously clenching the jaw |
| Treatment options | Surgery, Botox, Dysport, or physiotherapy |
| Botox treatment | Botox is injected directly into the muscle to reduce its size and force |
| Number of Botox sessions | 1-4 sessions, depending on the individual's reaction |
| Results of Botox treatment | Visible masseter reduction and facial slimming within 4 to 6 weeks |
| Duration of results | 3 to 4 months |
| Side effects of Botox | Serious negative side effects may occur if unqualified providers inject Botox into the wrong area or at the wrong depth |
| Surgery | Performed through incisions on the inside of the mouth, leaving no visible scarring |
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Botox injections
During the procedure, a medical professional will clean the skin to reduce the risk of infection and may apply topical anaesthesia to numb the area. They will then insert a thin needle into the masseter muscle, delivering the botulinum toxin. The toxin works by blocking nerve signals to the muscle, temporarily paralysing it and preventing it from contracting forcefully. This relaxation of the muscle leads to a reduction in its size, resulting in a slimmer and more defined jawline.
The effects of masseter Botox are typically noticeable within a few weeks, with optimal results visible after about six weeks. The results can last for up to six months, and repeat injections may be required to maintain the desired outcome. It is important to consult with a qualified health provider who has experience in facial anatomy and the masseter Botox procedure to ensure safe and effective treatment.
The cost of masseter Botox procedures can vary depending on the size of the masseter muscle and the amount of product used. On average, 20 to 30 units of Botox are needed on each side of the jawline, resulting in a cost of approximately $400 to $900 per procedure. It is important to prioritise quality and safety when considering Botox injections and to choose a reputable and experienced provider.
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Surgical reduction
The masseter muscle is one of the "muscles of mastication," helping us chew food and move our jaw up and down while speaking. It is typically larger in people of Asian ethnicity due to natural genetic differences, creating a wider face proportion. Asian women or transgender individuals of Asian descent seeking facial feminization may opt for masseter muscle reduction to achieve a softer, smoother jawline.
The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia. It is important to consult with a skilled plastic and craniofacial surgeon who can take into account each patient's unique ethnic background and adapt the surgical procedure accordingly. Different ethnic groups have different facial proportions and cultural concepts of beauty, so a surgeon should consider these factors when performing masseter muscle reduction surgery.
While non-surgical methods, such as Botox injections, are available to reduce the masseter muscle, surgical reduction may be the best option for some patients, especially those of Asian ethnicity, as non-surgical methods may not always provide the desired results. The number of sessions required for non-surgical methods depends on the individual's reaction to the treatment, and incorrect administration of Botox injections can have serious negative side effects that may take months or even years to resolve.
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Facial massage
The masseter muscle is one of the largest muscles in the face, with two masseters on each side of the face. It is an essential player in our daily jaw movements, including chewing and eating our food. Over time, habits such as clenching or grinding our teeth, chewing gum, biting nails, or chewing on objects like pens can cause the masseter muscles to be overworked, resulting in either pain or hypertrophy of the muscle.
To perform a deep stroking massage, start from the cheekbone and move down towards the jawline to elongate the masseter muscle fibres and provide relief from tightness. Combining pressure application on trigger points with stretching, such as holding the pressure while slowly opening the mouth, can enhance the effectiveness of self-massage.
It is important to note that while massage can be beneficial, it may not be sufficient for severe jaw pain, and additional treatments may be necessary. Furthermore, reducing excessive chewing habits, such as chewing gum, can also help decrease the size of the masseter muscle over time.
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Avoid teeth grinding
Avoiding teeth grinding, or bruxism, is important to prevent tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches. It can also alter your facial structure, enlarging the masseter muscle and causing a square-shaped jaw.
Mouth Guards
Mouth guards, or night guards, are a common solution to prevent teeth grinding during sleep. They hold the jaw in a certain position and provide a barrier to minimise tooth damage. Some mouth guards also hold the jaw slightly open, allowing the masseter muscles to relax. While they don't cure bruxism, they can improve sleep quality and reduce tooth wear, morning headaches, and grinding sounds that may disturb bed partners.
Botox
Botox injections, or botulinum toxin, are another option to prevent teeth grinding. They are injected into the masseter muscles to block nerve signals that cause muscle contractions. This reduces the bulk of the muscle and prevents clenching and grinding. However, it is important to note that Botox may affect your ability to chew certain foods and can have unintended side effects, so it is recommended to consult a trained medical professional.
Stress Reduction
Teeth grinding is often caused by stress. Reducing stress levels and becoming more aware of how you physically respond to stress can help prevent grinding. One technique is to repeat the phrase "lips together, teeth apart" three times before sleeping to prevent nocturnal grinding.
Mouth Exercises and Massages
Mouth exercises and massages can help reduce pain and relieve muscle tension caused by teeth grinding. These techniques can be demonstrated by a massage therapist or physical therapist and practised at home.
Medication
In severe cases, medication may be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, medications for bruxism may not always be effective and can have potential side effects.
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Physiotherapy
The masseter muscles are a pair of powerful muscles that form part of a group of four pairs of muscles used for chewing. They help elevate the lower jaw and assist in protrusion or forward movement of the lower jaw. Over time, habits such as clenching or grinding teeth, chewing gum, biting nails, or chewing on objects like pens can cause the masseter muscles to be overworked, resulting in pain or muscle hypertrophy. Masseter hypertrophy refers to the enlargement of the masseter muscle, causing the jaw to appear wide and the face to appear rectangular.
Splint Therapy
Using an oral appliance, such as a night guard, can help reduce the force exerted by clenching and grinding habits. This approach aims to decrease the intensity of muscle contractions and provide relief from associated pain.
Behaviour Therapy
Behaviour therapy aims to address the underlying behavioural habits that contribute to overworking the masseter muscles. It involves learning to become aware of and modify habits such as teeth clenching or gum chewing. Additionally, techniques for relaxation, stress management, thermal therapy (using heat or ice), sleep hygiene, and dietary counselling may be incorporated to reduce muscle tension and promote overall well-being.
Massage Therapy
Massaging the masseter muscle can help alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation. Applying pressure to the muscle located at the back of the jaw with the thumb while gently clenching the teeth can help identify the correct area. Holding this pressure for 15-20 seconds can provide relief from discomfort and promote muscle relaxation.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of these physiotherapy approaches may vary among individuals. While these methods can help manage discomfort and prevent further muscle enlargement, they may not always lead to a significant reduction in muscle size. For more pronounced masseter reduction, medical procedures like Botox injections or surgical interventions are typically considered.
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Frequently asked questions
The masseters are the two muscles on each side of your jaw that help you chew.
Enlarged masseter muscles can lead to an undesired square jawline, which may result in a more masculine appearance. Many women, transgender individuals, and non-binary people seek a softer, smoother appearance to the jawline.
Masseter muscles can become enlarged due to teeth grinding, clenching the jaw, or chewing gum excessively.
There are surgical and non-surgical methods to reduce masseter muscles. Non-surgical methods involve a series of injections of muscle relaxants like Botox or Dysport directly into the masseter muscle. Surgical methods involve making incisions inside the mouth to reduce and reshape the jaw bone and masseter muscle.
Botox injections are generally considered safe with minimal discomfort and no downtime. However, if administered incorrectly, serious negative side effects may occur.
