Is it effective to massage the masseter muscle when it is too large?

When the masseter muscle is overly developed, simply massaging it by hand cannot directly eliminate or significantly reduce its size. Hand massage of the masseter muscle can promote local blood circulation to some extent and help relax the muscle and reduce minor swelling, but its effects are limited and require long-term persistence to achieve slight improvement. To effectively address the issue of an enlarged masseter muscle, a comprehensive approach is recommended. Adjust dietary habits to avoid excessive consumption of hard foods and habits such as chewing gum, which can lead to overuse of the masseter muscle. Facial exercises and massages may be tried, such as using the index finger to massage the masseter muscle in a clockwise direction for 10–15 minutes per session, 2–3 times daily. However, care should be taken to apply moderate pressure and avoid over-massaging, which could cause injury. If the problem of an enlarged masseter muscle is severe and affects facial aesthetics, it is recommended to consider more direct and effective treatments, such as receiving botulinum toxin injections or undergoing surgery, under the guidance of a qualified physician. Additionally, maintaining good lifestyle habits and facial hygiene can help prevent local infections.