The masseter muscle is a powerful jaw muscle whose primary function is to open and close the jaw while you eat and speak. In some people, this muscle can be quite enlarged, and the shape of your face changed as a result. In women, an enlarged masseter can give the jawline a more masculine (squared) appearance instead of a feminine (ovalized) appearance.

Normal chewing or speaking usually does not cause excessive masseter enlargement. The more likely cause is unconscious grinding or clenching of the jaw (especially at nighttime). Stress or anxiety can often make things worse. ShanthiMD has partnered with the outstanding team of dentists at Fuller Smiles Dentistry in Los Angeles, CA to help our patients with teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Schedule your consultation today!

Botox (onabotulinum toxin A) is an injectable cosmetic treatment that temporarily relaxes overactive facial muscles. When injected into your masseter muscle, Botox relaxes it, thereby allowing the muscle to return to a normal size and shape over time. Repeated treatments are recommended every 3 months for the first year and then every 6 months thereafter to maintain your results.

Botox is injected with tiny (insulin) needles. This along with ice packs and a professional strength numbing cream which can be applied in advance to the skin, make the procedure almost painless. Botox has an excellent safety record in the hands of experienced, well-trained physicians (millions of patients have been treated worldwide). Most commonly, temporary mild swelling, pain, and bruising can occur at the site of injection. Consider reviewing our pre-treatment tips for ways to minimize the risk of bruising prior to your treatment.