How Can The Anterior Temporal Muscle Be Reduced?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I had posterior temporal reduction surgery by muscle removal three months ago and am very pleased with the result. My question now is what can be done for the anterior temporal muscle closer to my eye. 

A: Based on your email previously and the current one, I assume the remaining issue is the front part of the side of the head, the anterior temporal region. The anterior temporal region is different from the posterior in that the muscle can not just be removed like the posterior temporal region. That would cause contour deformities as well as potential jaw opening/closing problems. Thus the anterior temporal fullness must be treated differently. Options include non-surgical (Botox injections…very effective but not assured of permanency)) and open electrocautery surgery which causes permanent muscle shrinkage due to the thermal injury of the outer muscle fibers. Botox injections take weeks to see their effects while electocautery can take up to three months after the surgery to see the full effects of muscle thickness reduction.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana