Can My Large Temporal Muscles Be Reduced?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have very large temporal muscles that I want reduced. They stick out significantly from the side of my head after yawning as well as chewing when I haven’t for a long time. It is not normal to look like this with such bulges. What is involved in reducing the temporal muscles. I have attached some pictures for you to see what I mean. I also feel an extreme tightness/discomfort whenever I’m chewing when I haven’t for a long time.

A: While removal of hypertrophied temporal muscle can be an effective procedure, not all of the temporal muscle areas can be reached from an incision behind the ear and certain areas need to be avoided to prevent jaw dysfunction. (see attached diagram which in yellow shows the area where temporal muscle ca be removed)

You have a uniquely distinct area of temporal muscle hypertrophy that I have never seen before in its precise location. This is exactly where surgical muscle removal can not be done. as the aforementioned diagram shows. This can, however, be treated with Botox Injections  which can effectively shrink down the size of the muscle in a non-surgical manner. A good 50 units per side as an initial treatment will produce a visible reduction.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon