Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy refers to the measurable enlargement or increase in the size of the masseter muscle, which is one of the primary muscles responsible for chewing and jaw movement. This condition can result from excessive mechanical loading, such as chronic clenching or grinding (bruxism), or be influenced by anabolic hormonal stimulation. Clinically, hypertrophy contributes significantly to the lateral fullness and angularity of the lower face, impacting the overall jawline definition and facial aesthetic. It is a key factor in determining the width of the mandibular angle.
Origin
The term is derived from anatomical and pathological nomenclature, combining “masseter,” the muscle name from the Greek masētēr (chewer), and “hypertrophy,” from the Greek hyper (over) and trophē (nourishment), meaning overgrowth. This term is commonly used in dentistry, plastic surgery, and musculoskeletal physiology.
Mechanism
The enlargement of the masseter muscle occurs through an increase in the size of its individual muscle fibers, a process known as myofibrillar hypertrophy. This is stimulated by two main pathways: chronic, high-intensity mechanical tension, which activates muscle satellite cells and protein synthesis; and the anabolic effects of hormones like testosterone and growth hormone. Androgens bind to receptors on muscle cells, promoting gene transcription for contractile proteins, thereby increasing muscle volume. The interplay of mechanical stimulation and hormonal signaling dictates the extent of the masseter’s final size and prominence.
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