Prospective Analysis of the Effectiveness of Targeted Botulinum Toxin Type A Injection Using an Ultrasound-Guided...

Area of Science:

• Cosmetic surgery
• Medical aesthetics
• Facial rejuvenation

Background:

• Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injections are common for masseter hypertrophy.
• Traditional injections rely on landmark-guided, blind techniques.
• Ultrasound (US)-guided injections offer real-time visualization for improved accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of US-guided versus landmark-guided BoNT-A injections for masseter hypertrophy.
• To assess the impact of each injection method on masseter muscle thickness.

Main Methods:

• A trial involving 50 patients undergoing BoNT-A injections.
• One side of the face received landmark-guided injection; the other received US-guided injection.
• Muscle thickness was measured using ultrasound in upper, middle, and lower regions pre- and post-procedure.

Main Results:

• Both methods significantly reduced muscle thickness one month post-injection.
• US-guided injections showed statistically superior reduction in muscle thickness in all areas (upper, middle, lower).
• Significant differences (p < 0.0001 for upper and middle; p = 0.0004 for lower) favored US-guided technique.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-guided single-point injection is a more effective and accurate method for BoNT-A delivery.
• This technique offers enhanced precision compared to conventional landmark-guided injections.
• US-guidance improves outcomes in treating masseter hypertrophy.