Jaw Augmentation Facial Plastic Surgery

Beauty is not an exact science.  However, some facial plastic surgeons believe there are some specific balanced proportions that the "ideal" facial structure contains i.e. height, width and symmetry.  *******

For instance, we tend to think of a large prominent jaw as being masculine and portrays strength on a man; conversely, a less defined jaw line appears feminine and seems "weak".  In addition, an individuals jaw imbalance can make other facial features seem distorted, making a small nose may seem even smaller.

Facial implants may be used to improve an imbalance.  These implants provide a more harmonious balance to your facial features.  As such, you feel better about your appearance.

Jaw Augmentation or Mandibular Augmentation is most commonly performed to correct an inferior jaw structure due to a congenital deficiency or facial trauma.   Jaw augmentation is the use of synthetics or biologicals to augment, or make the mandibular structure of the face more prominent or defined.  It can give balance to an otherwise less defined face or further augment an already existent jaw structure.

YOUR CONSULTATION
Understanding your goals regarding cosmetic surgery is paramount to a successful, satisfied patient. Dr. Slupchynskyj will help determine your needs by examining your facial structure and photographs.  First the face is evaluated from its frontal view and then its lateral (side view).  There are steps that can determine the facial lateral width or projection (as in your profile) and there is the oblique assessment for contours such as the cheek bones, chin and nose. Utilizing computer imagery will help portray the possibilities.  It also may be that the face needs Malarplasty (cheek augmentation) or Mentoplasty (chin augmentation) to balance out the features in addition to your jaw augmentation.  It is very common to have jaw augmentation in conjunction with a chin augmentation procedure.    

LOWER-JAW SURGERY
The surgery itself is completed in an operating room setting under sedation anesthesia. An incision is made inside the mouth near the area of the third molars and a pocket has developed on the side of the lower jaw. A manufactured implant is then inserted in this incision. The devices are then shaped to match the jaw line and adhere tightly along that contour. The implant is ultimately held in place with two to three titanium screws. This procedure is repeated on the opposite side. Thorough irrigation is used along with antibiotic solution in order to help prevent infection. The wound is closed in layers so that there is a watertight seal to keep the oral fluids out of the wound. Insertion of a jaw implant usually takes about one to two hours. Internal incisions are made on either side of the lower lip to provide access for creating a pocket into which the lower-jaw implant can be inserted. Dissolving sutures are used to close the incisions.

RECOVERING FROM JAW SURGERY
Swelling is sometimes significant immediately following surgery, usually peaking 24 to 48 hours afterward. Although most of the significant swelling will subside over a period of several days, prolonged mild swelling may prevent your final facial contour from becoming apparent for several months.

During the healing phase, your activities and diet will be restricted. Your ability to smile, talk or move your mouth in any way may be limited for several days to weeks following surgery. Your plastic surgeon will instruct you about dental and oral hygiene during your recovery.