Jaw Reshaping Surgery to Define Your Face

What Can Jaw Reshaping Surgery Do?

Jaw reshaping surgery also called orthognathic surgery or jaw contouring is a type of cosmetic surgery that is performed to reshape your jawline. It is done to correct facial deformities that are the result of genetics or injury. During the procedure, your surgeon will remove some of the bones in your jaw, adjust the alignment of the remaining bones, reposition any teeth that have been misaligned, and/or remove excess skin and fat. The goal of the surgery is to give your jawline a more desirable shape and size. The surgery itself may be done under general anesthesia, where you are unconscious, or with IV sedation, where you’re awake but will be very relaxed. The surgeon will make incisions on either side of your jaw and then reposition the bones. If necessary, the surgeon will use a bone graft to fill in any gaps between the jaw and surrounding muscles. Once the bones have been repositioned, the incisions will be closed and bandaged.

Is Jaw Reshaping Surgery Right for You?

Jaw reshaping surgery is right for you if you have a receding, sunken, or uneven jawline that you would like to correct. Some of the conditions that can be improved with cosmetic jaw surgery include:

- A receding or gummy-looking jawline

- A crooked jawline

- A jawline with wide gaps between the teeth

- A jawline that is too small

- A jawline with excess skin or fat.

If any of these conditions apply to you, jaw surgery may be the right choice. You should be aware that jaw surgery is a serious procedure with many risks and side effects. It’s important that you understand the risks and talk them over with your surgeon before moving forward with the procedure.

How Does Jaw Reshaping Surgery Work?

During jaw surgery, the surgeon will remove some of the bones in your jaw and then reposition the remaining bones. The goal is to give your jawline a more desirable shape and size. Generally, jaw surgery is done under general anesthesia, where you are unconscious. There are two common techniques that are used in jaw surgery:

- The first is called the “open procedure,” where the surgeon makes a cut across the side of your face.

-The second is called the “closed procedure,” where the surgeon makes incisions inside your mouth. The surgeon will then remove some of the bones in your jaw and reposition the remaining bones. If necessary, the surgeon will use a bone graft to fill in any gaps between the jaw and surrounding muscles. Once the bones have been repositioned, the incisions will be closed and bandaged.

Who is a Good Candidate for Jaw Reshaping Surgery?

Ideally, you should be in good health and be free of any serious health conditions that could complicate or worsen the surgery. Your surgeon will want to know if you have allergies or a history of heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure; if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding; or if you take any medications or have any other health concerns. You may also be asked about any dental issues you’re experiencing, such as tooth decay or gum disease. Finally, you should be at a healthy weight and have realistic expectations about the results of your surgery. Depending on the condition of your jawline and the amount of bone and skin that needs to be removed, it may not be possible to achieve a jawline that is exactly the same as yours was before.

Things to Know Before Having Jaw Reshaping Surgery

- Recovery will take some time. It can take more than a week for the swelling and bruising to subside. You should prepare yourself for some discomfort, both during and after the surgery. You’ll also need to pay careful attention to your diet. Because chewing and swallowing will be difficult, you may need to have soft foods and liquids for a time.

- Jaw surgery can be expensive. While the procedure itself is not particularly costly, there are other expenses that come along with it. You may need to take time off from work and use vacation time or sick leave. There may also be travel expenses and lodging costs if you need to stay in a nearby city where the surgeon practices.

Conclusion

There are many ways to change your appearance, but few are as dramatic or long-lasting as jaw-reshaping surgery. This procedure can significantly improve your jawline and give you the face you’ve always wanted. If you think jaw reshaping surgery is right for you, it’s important to find a skilled surgeon who can help you reach your goals.