By Audrey Tan
Botulinum toxin type A injections on the face, more commonly known as Botox, have become a go-to procedure for those looking to enhance their appearance. Botox® itself refers to a brand of Botulinum toxin type A that is widely known in the industry. Other brands on the market include Dysport®, Jeuveau®, Xeomin®, and Daxxify®. Nevertheless, Botox® has become such a famous household brand that most people tend to refer to the procedure simply as "Botox".
Currently, in the viral spotlight - the Masseter Botox, a.k.a jaw botox, has got everyone talking thanks to incredible before and after pictures circulating the internet.
Masseter Botox has another benefit: It can help alleviate soreness and tension in the jaw, often caused by stress. It might be for you if you find yourself grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw frequently.
What Is It? How Does It Work, And Is It Safe?
Like the average procedure, only the neurotoxin is injected into the Masseter muscle. These muscles are on either side of your jaw and help us to chew. It is at risk of overworking if you have a habit of clenching your jaws or chewing gum.
Recent studies found that stressed individuals have a 97% chance of developing bruxism, a condition that strains the Masseter muscles. When stressed, many of us involuntarily clench our jaws or grind our teeth while sleeping.
Over time, the Masseter muscles become overworked, increasing in size and leading to soreness. Enlarged muscles give the face a boxy, square-shaped appearance. It can also lead to jaw pain, headaches, jaw locking, and other oral health problems.
What Are The Benefits Of Botulinum Toxin Injections In The Masseter Muscles?
Aesthetic benefits
When the Botulinum toxin is injected into the Masseter muscle, it blocks the transmission of nerve signals. It temporarily paralyses the muscle, weakening it and thereby reducing its size and correcting the appearance of a square-shaped jawline. The procedure helps to give the face a slimmer, V-shaped profile
Medical benefits
The benefits go beyond just cosmetic reasons. Firstly, it can alleviate symptoms of bruxism where current remedies involve inconvenient lifestyle changes. The botulinum toxin prevents the teeth from clenching involuntarily by relaxing the jaw. Moreover, this can help relieve pain and tension in the jaw and headaches and migraines caused by overactive Masseter muscles.
Within a week, the headaches and clenching should gradually subside. And within a month, you will be able to notice the full effects of a slimmer jawline.
What To Expect During And After The Procedure
Before, the doctor will mark the injection points on the Masseter muscle. Some practitioners may use a numbing cream or ice to minimise discomfort during the injection.
A fine needle injects a small amount of botulinum toxin into each point. The number of injections required will depend on the masseter muscle size and the desired outcome. Patients may feel slight discomfort during the injection, but it is generally well-tolerated.
No downtime is required after the procedure, and patients can resume their normal activities immediately. Nevertheless, it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise for a day or two and refrain from doing activities that raise the body temperature for two weeks after the procedure.
Things To Know Before Getting A Masseter Botox: Advice From An Experienced Medical Aesthetic Doctor
Botulinum toxin injections are generally recommended for adults. Dr Elias Tam, a Medical Director at EHA Clinic, advises:
"Botox or other botulinum toxin injections are generally safe for most people, but some individuals should avoid it. For example, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with certain neuromuscular disorders, and those with allergies to the ingredients should not receive the treatment. Overall, it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine if the treatment is appropriate for you."
Dr Tam also warns of possible side effects:
"While botulinum toxin injections are generally safe, there are some potential complications that can occur. These include temporary side effects such as headache, nausea, and flu-like symptoms, as well as more serious complications like difficulty breathing, vision problems, or muscle weakness. It is important to choose a qualified medical professional who is experienced in administering the treatment and who can help minimise the risk of complications."
Who Is It Recommended For?
These injections are suitable for anyone looking to reduce their masseter muscle size and achieve a more defined, oval-shaped face. It is also recommended for people who suffer from tensed jaws, bruxism, jaw pain, or frequent headaches caused by jaw clenching and grinding.
Masseter Botox injections are a safe and effective way to relieve tension in the jaw, which causes pain and headaches that can affect one's quality of life. From an aesthetic perspective, Botulinum toxin injections in the masseter region can help reduce the size of enlarged facial muscles, resulting in a more slender and defined profile.
If you want to give this procedure a try, we recommend consulting with a qualified medical professional for safe and successful results.
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