Your masseter muscles are what you use to chew. They’re located in your jaw, and they’re pretty important!
Masseter Botox is when a botulinum toxin (like Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, or Jeuveau) gets injected into those muscles. This procedure is growing in popularity, and it can help reduce jaw tension, relieve TMJ, or even slim the face.
Let’s take a look at Masseter Botox, focusing on the masseter muscle botox cost, its benefits, and other things to consider before you book your appointment.
What is Masseter Botox and How Does It Work?
If you’re considering masseter Botox, it helps to understand the muscle itself and what the Botox is doing.
Understanding the Masseter Muscle
The masseter muscle is in your jaw, and it’s the main muscle you use for chewing. This muscle can get larger than it should due to frequent gum chewing or teeth grinding, a condition called bruxism.
The Science Behind Masseter Botox
Botox, a neuromodulator, relaxes the masseter muscle by blocking nerve signals. This relaxation leads to the muscle gradually shrinking in size. Because the Botox changes nerve activity, it’s called a neuromodulator.
The benefits of masseter Botox: More than just aesthetics
While masseter Botox is probably best known for its cosmetic effects, it also has several therapeutic uses.
Cosmetic benefits
- Jawline slimming. Masseter Botox can create a more contoured and slender jawline.
- Facial harmony. In some cases, it can improve your overall facial proportions and even make your cheekbones more prominent.
Therapeutic benefits
- TMJ relief. Botox injections can reduce the pain and discomfort of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Bruxism reduction. If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, masseter Botox may be able to help.
- Headache reduction. By relaxing the masseter muscles, Botox may ease tension headaches.
What factors influence the cost of masseter Botox?
The cost of masseter Botox isn’t fixed; several factors can affect how much you’ll pay.
- Type of neurotoxin used. Botox is the brand name most people know, but there are other brands of botulinum toxin available, including Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau. Different brands have different pricing, and some clinics may offer Xeomin or Jeuveau in addition to Botox.
- Dosage (units required). Everyone’s different, and the number of units you’ll need depends on the size and strength of your masseter muscles. Many people need between 20 and 60 units in total, but some may need more.
- Geographic location. Just like rent and groceries, the cost of cosmetic procedures can vary depending on the region you live in and the demand for the procedure in your area.
- Provider expertise and clinic reputation. Experienced injectors may charge more for their services, and clinics with cutting-edge technology may also have higher prices.
Some providers charge by the unit (for example, $12 to $13 per unit), while others offer a flat fee. One clinic mentioned charging an extra $150 per treatment of Botox or Dysport.
What to expect during and after treatment
- Consultation: A qualified provider will talk with you about your goals, decide whether you’re a good candidate, and figure out the best dose for you.
- Injection: The injections themselves usually take between 15 and 30 minutes.
- Downtime: Most people can get back to their normal activities right away.
- Recovery: Don’t exercise or drink alcohol for 24 hours. Also, avoid rubbing the treated area, and wait a few hours before putting on makeup.
What are the side effects?
Most people who get masseter Botox injections only have mild side effects, like bruising, swelling, or redness at the injection site. Usually, these go away in a few days.
Rarely, people report asymmetry in their face or difficulty chewing.
To Conclude
Masseter Botox can be an effective way to slim the jawline, relieve TMJ symptoms, and reduce teeth grinding.
If you’re interested in Masseter Botox, the best next step is to consult with a qualified and experienced provider. They can help you decide whether this treatment is the right choice for your specific needs and goals.