Dysport in Masseter: Applications and Considerations for Jawline Contouring

A recent study revealed the motivations behind the rise of cosmetic procedures. The study showed that people increasingly seek ways to enhance their body image and physical attractiveness, even if it means undergoing aesthetic procedures with potential risks. The desire to look good for others is an influential factor in these decisions.

Dysport, a neuromodulator similar to Botox, temporarily relaxes targeted muscles. Though doctorsoften use Dysport to treat wrinkles and other unwanted signs of aging, they can use these injections to target the masseter muscle (responsible for chewing) and give patients a sharper, more defined jawline.

In this article, we will explore the applications of Dysport in masseter for jawline contouring. We will also cover its mechanisms, application techniques, and the possible outcomes when getting this treatment.

Key Takeaways

• Dysport can be used for jawline contouring by targeting the masseter muscles, resulting in a slimmer and more defined jawline appearance.
  
• Proper injection techniques, dosage considerations, and potential outcomes are crucial for successful Dysport masseter treatments.
  
• Medical professionals should know potential side effects and manage patient expectations when incorporating Dysport masseter treatments into their aesthetic practices.

Understanding Dysport in Masseter Treatments

Dysport is a botulinum toxin type A formulation that healthcare professionals and experts can use in aesthetic and therapeutic applications. It can temporarily block the communication between the nerves and muscles to achieve its aesthetic or therapeutic goal.

Cosmetic specialists can use Dysport for smile lines or other wrinkles affecting a person’s appearance. However, they can also use Dysport and inject it into the masseter muscles, which are located on the lower sides of the face near the jaw.

The masseter muscle, responsible for chewing and jaw movement, can be selectively relaxed with Dysport, reducing muscle bulk and resulting in a softer jawline. This process involves stopping acetylcholine release, a neurotransmitter that signals muscle contraction, thus smoothing the skin and reducing the visibility of lines.

Targeting the Masseter Muscles for Jawline Contouring

Jawline contouring with Dysport involves targeting the masseter muscles to achieve a slimmer, more defined jawline. The non-surgical procedure offers a quick, relatively painless route to a more aesthetically pleasing facial structure. It provides several benefits:

• Jawline Definition: Dysport relaxes the masseter muscles, helping soften the jawline and creating a more oval or heart-shaped appearance.
  
• Facial Asymmetry Correction: In some cases, one masseter muscle might be more prominent. Dysport injections can even out this asymmetry for a more balanced look.
  
• TMJ Pain Relief: Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, causing pain and discomfort. Dysport’s muscle relaxation can alleviate TMJ pain by reducing muscle tension.

The treatment begins with a consultation to assess facial structure and aesthetic goals. Then, the specialist injects Dysport into predetermined points in the masseter muscle. Various factors can influence the effects of this treatment, including dosage, individual metabolism, and lifestyle, and atypically last about 3-4 months.

Injection Techniques for Dysport Masseter Treatments

Achieving optimal results with Dysport for masseter muscle relaxation hinges on precise injection techniques. To ensure safety and effectiveness, a qualified healthcare professional will carefully consider factors like injection sites, depth, and angle.

Proper Injection Sites for Masseter Muscle Relaxation

Identifying the correct injection sites for effective Dysport treatment of the masseter muscle is crucial. The masseter muscle is located on the side of the face and plays a vital role in chewing. The recommended injection sites are typically where the muscle is most prominent.

A thorough examination of the jaw and face during the initial consultation helps determine the precise locations for Dysport injections, ensuring optimal results and patient satisfaction. The exact location will depend on a patient’s anatomy, desired outcome (e.g., jawline slimming, TMJ pain relief), and potential muscle asymmetry.

Considerations for Injection Depth and Angle

Precise injection depth and angle are crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of Dysport while minimizing risks.

• Depth: Ideally, professionals should inject Dysport intramuscularly, with care taken to avoid superficial injections that could affect the skin’s appearance or deeper injections that might impact other facial structures. 
  
• Angle: The injection angle is also critical; it should be perpendicular to the skin surface to deliver the Dysport directly into the masseter muscle. Providers may adjust the angle slightly depending on the patient’s unique facial anatomy.

Dosage Considerations for Dysport Masseter Treatments

The optimal dosage of Dysport for masseter treatments varies based on individual patient factors such as muscle mass, desired degree of muscle relaxation, and previous responses to botulinum toxin treatments. Generally, the starting dose can range from 12 to 20 units of Botox per side, translating to approximately 35 to 60 units of Dysport.

Several key factors influence the ideal Dysport dosage for masseter injections:

• Muscle Size and Activity Level: Individuals with larger, more hypertrophic masseter muscles may require slightly higher doses than those with smaller muscles. Additionally, those who grind their teeth frequently benefit from a higher dosage for sufficient relaxation.
  
• Desired Outcome: The goal of treatment plays a role. Someone seeking a subtle reduction in jawline width might require a lower dose than someone aiming for a more dramatic transformation.
  
• Individual Sensitivity: People vary in their sensitivity to Dysport. A specialist may initially use a lower dose to assess their patient’s treatment response before potentially increasing the dosage in future treatments.

Avoiding Over or Underdosage in Masseter Treatments

To avoid overdosage, healthcare professionals must adhere to the recommended dose ranges and inject no more than 0.5 mL of Dysport into any single injection site. Overdosage can lead to excessive muscle weakness and unintended effects on adjacent muscles, while underdosage may result in suboptimal results. 

Providers should be cautious and consider the patient’s unique facial anatomy, muscle mass, and previous treatment outcomes when determining the appropriate dosage. Regular follow-ups and dose adjustments are crucial to achieving the desired aesthetic outcome without compromising safety.

Potential Outcomes and Considerations

Dysport treatments targeting the masseter muscles can yield a more refined jawline and facial contour. Visible results typically appear within a few days post-treatment. The total effect of the treatment usually occurs within 3-4 weeks, with the potential for muscle shrinkage noticeable after 3-6 months.

When used therapeutically, patients may experience less muscle pain and fewer TMJ-related headaches as early benefits. The aesthetic outcomes include a slimmer face profile and a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, contributing to a refreshed look.

Managing Patient Expectations and Potential Side Effects

Healthcare providers need to manage patient expectations regarding treatments like Dysport. They should inform their patients about the potential side effects, including injection site reactions, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and muscle weakness. These symptoms generally subside within a few days to a couple of weeks.

Providers should also communicate the typical duration of results and the importance of follow-up care to adjust treatment plans based on feedback. Educating patients on the benefits, risks, and realistic outcomes of Dysport treatments is crucial for ensuring informed consent and satisfaction with the procedure.

Considerations for Medical Professionals

Medical professionals considering adding Dysport masseter treatments into their aesthetic practices should ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy and the specific dynamics of the masseter muscle. Mastery in injecting Dysport is crucial, as it requires technical skill and an aesthetic eye to achieve a harmonious balance with the patient’s other facial features.

When addressing patient concerns, medical professionals should focus on clearly communicating the potential outcomes of Dysport masseter treatments. A detailed consultation is critical to understanding the patient’s desires, allowing them to collaborate and create a personalized treatment plan.

Conclusion

Dysport masseter treatments offer a valuable option for medical professionals to help patients achieve a sculpted jawline non-surgically. By understanding the science behind Dysport, mastering injection techniques, and carefully considering dosage and potential outcomes, medical professionals can achieve successful and satisfying results. 

With a focus on patient education, safety, and desired aesthetic outcomes, experts can seamlessly integrate Dysport treatments into aesthetic practices, empowering patients to achieve their dream jawline.

About: DoctorMedica is your trusted supplier of top-quality dermal fillers, viscosupplements, and more. If you’re looking to order Dysport online for your practice, the sales representatives at Doctor Medica can give you guidance.

FAQs

1. How does Dysport work for jawline contouring?

Dysport works for jawline contouring by temporarily paralyzing the masseter muscles, leading to a slimmer and more defined jawline appearance.

2. Can doctors use Dysport on other areas like the chin?

Doctors can use Dysport off-label to treat areas like the chin for conditions such as dimpling or visible expression lines.

3. How safe is Dysport for cosmetic treatments?

Dysport is FDA-approved and considered safe for cosmetic treatments when administered by a qualified provider.

References

Aladwan SM, Shakya AK, Naik RR, Afrashtehfar KI. Awareness of Cosmetic Procedures among Adults Seeking to Enhance Their Physical Appearance: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study in Central Jordan. Cosmetics (Basel). 2023;10(1):19. doi:10.3390/cosmetics10010019

The Healthline Editorial Team. Masseter. Healthline. Published July 6, 2020. https://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/masseter-muscle#1