The masseter muscle runs from the cheekbone down to the jawline and is the main muscle associated with chewing. Injections of Botulinum Toxin into the masseter muscle can be used for cosmetic reasons such as masseter hypertrophy (enlargement of the masseter muscle) or other medical reasons such as teeth grinding, migraines and jaw clenching.

Benefits of Masseter injections

If you are considering masseter injections for masseter hypertrophy, teeth grinding, jaw clenching or migraines it is essential you consider the possible adverse effects that can occur following masseter injections. Possible side effects of Masseter injections include pain, bruising, swelling and inflammation, reduced strength of chewing and changes to the overall appearance of your face. The likelihood of experiencing side effects after Masseter injections depends on a number of factors including, dosage, injector experience and technique, medications, anatomy and compliance with aftercare instructions. Prior to having Masseter injections make sure you check your injectors qualifications and experience, have a thorough consultation and follow any before and after care instructions. 

Common side effects after Masseter injections

Bruising after Masseter injections is typically caused by damage to capillaries which causes leakage of blood. Swelling and inflammation is another side effect that can be seen with Masseter injections, one study showed 5 out of 32 patients receiving Masseter injections experienced swelling and inflammation. Haematoma’s are noted to occur, however less commonly. One of the most commonly occurring side effects is a reduction in chewing strength, which makes sense when you consider the primary use of the Masseter muscle is chewing! This side effect is seen in up to 65% of patients. You should expect your chewing ability to return to normal levels after 12 weeks. One other side effect of Masseter injections you should consider is that it can impact your face shape ibn more ways that you might expect. Some patients find they look “awkward” when they smile, have a drooped smile, or a lopsided smile. Other patients can notice they have a more sunken appearance due to volume loss in the cheek area, or sagging of the jowl area due again to rapid volume loss. These types of side effects can be noticed after about two - three weeks which is why it is so important to attend your follow up appointment with your injector at the two-week mark.


Aftercare recommendations for Masseter injections

Aftercare for Masseter injections whether for cosmetic or medical reasons remains the same. Arnicare recommends following the advice given to you by your injector which may include ice, arnica cream, avoiding touching the area and pain relief if required.

Ice can be applied immediately after injection into the Masseter muscle has occurred. Apply your ice pack for ten minutes at a time regularly throughout the day. Arnicare lip shaped ice packs are the perfect size to use on the jawline, just remember to get two so you can ice both sides at once. Arnicare ice packs are reusable and can be quickly refrozen. Pain, bruising, swelling and inflammation are some of the most common side effects of Masseter injections which is why applying an Arnica cream after your procedure may give you some relief. Arnicare arnica cream also contains turmeric which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Arnica cream can be applied to the jaw and cheek area three times per day.

Pain is reported in up to 60% of patients after Masseter injections, over the counter pain relief should assist in conjunction with ice and arnica cream. If you have ongoing pain or are concerned always follow up with your injector or your General Practitioner.

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Masseter injections for medical and cosmetic purposes | Cosmetic injectables aftercare