Does Corrective Jaw Surgery Change Your Facial Appearance?
Beverly Hills, CA

Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is designed to correct jaw bone irregularities and realign the jaws and teeth, enhancing their function. This procedure can also enhance your facial appearance.

Jaw surgery may be necessary if orthodontic treatments alone can’t resolve your jaw problems. Typically, you’ll need to wear braces before and after the surgery to ensure proper healing and alignment. Your orthodontist will collaborate with your maxillofacial surgeon to create a comprehensive treatment plan.

This surgery is generally recommended after growth has stopped, which is usually around ages 14 to 16 for females and ages 17 to 21 for males.

What is Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery involves the realignment of the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to achieve better functionality and aesthetics. This surgery is typically recommended for conditions such as:

• Severe bite misalignment (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
• Jaw asymmetry
• Difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing
• Chronic jaw pain or TMJ disorders
• Sleep apnea

Why It’s Done

Jaw surgery can address a variety of issues, including:

• Improving biting and chewing efficiency
• Correcting swallowing or speech problems
• Reducing excessive wear and damage to teeth
• Fixing bite fit or jaw closure issues, such as an open bite where the molars touch but the front teeth do not.
• Correcting facial asymmetry, including small chins, underbites, overbites, and crossbites
• Enhancing the ability of the lips to close comfortably
• Alleviating pain caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and other jaw-related problems
• Repairing facial injuries or birth defects
• Providing relief from obstructive sleep apnea

How Corrective Jaw Surgery Changes Facial Appearance

Enhanced Facial Symmetry

One of the most prominent changes post-surgery is enhanced facial symmetry. Misaligned jaws can cause the face to appear uneven, with one side differing from the other. Surgery can create a more balanced facial structure, significantly improving overall aesthetics.

Profile Improvement 

The surgery often results in a more harmonious facial profile. For example, a receding lower jaw (retrognathia) can be brought forward, giving a stronger, more defined jawline. Conversely, a protruding lower jaw (prognathia) can be moved back, creating a more balanced profile.

Chin and Jawline Definition 

Corrective jaw surgery can redefine the chin and jawline. Moving the lower jaw forward can enhance a weak chin while reducing a prominent chin can bring it into better proportion with the rest of the face. This adjustment often results in a more attractive and youthful appearance.

Smile Enhancement

Jaw misalignment can affect the aesthetics of your smile. Conditions like open bites or underbites can cause teeth to be improperly positioned when smiling. Post-surgery, better alignment of teeth and jaws leads to a more natural and pleasing smile.

Reduction of Facial Strain

Misaligned jaws can cause tension in the facial muscles, leading to an aged or stressed appearance. Surgery can alleviate this strain, giving the face a more relaxed and youthful look.

Soft Tissue Adjustments

The repositioning of the jaws can also impact the soft tissues of the face, including the cheeks, lips, and nose. For instance, moving the upper jaw forward can provide better support for the upper lip and reduce the appearance of a “gummy smile“. Adjustments to the lower jaw can enhance the contour of the cheeks and the lower face.

Psychological and Emotional Benefits

Corrective jaw surgery goes beyond just the physical alterations it brings about, offering profound psychological and emotional advantages as well. Numerous individuals undergoing this procedure have expressed experiencing a notable boost in their self-assurance and overall self-worth post-surgery. The favorable transformation in both the aesthetic appearance and functional aspects of the jaw not only enhances the individual’s quality of life but also significantly contributes to their emotional wellness. This newfound sense of self-assurance and improved self-esteem can have a lasting and transformative impact, leading to a more positive outlook and a greater overall satisfaction with life.

Recovery and Adjustment

It’s important to note that the full effects of corrective jaw surgery on appearance may take several months to become apparent. Initial swelling and bruising are common and can temporarily obscure the final results. As the swelling subsides and the tissues heal, the improvements in facial aesthetics will become more noticeable.

Consultation and Planning

Suppose you’re considering corrective jaw surgery in Beverly Hills, CA. It’s essential to consult with Dr. Sam Harouni, a certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Harouni will conduct a thorough assessment, utilize advanced imaging techniques for precise planning, and discuss potential outcomes with you. This ensures that the surgery not only addresses functional concerns but also enhances your facial aesthetics effectively.

Corrective jaw surgery is a transformative procedure that not only improves jaw function but also enhances facial symmetry, profile, and overall appearance. By selecting a professional surgeon and understanding the potential benefits, you can achieve a harmonious and appealing facial appearance through this life-changing surgery.