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What is jaw augmentation?
Jaw augmentation — also called mandibular augmentation — is cosmetic surgery to make the jaw structure of the face more prominent or in better balance with the rest of the face. Jaw augmentation uses implants that are placed over the natural jawbone to create definition in an otherwise less-defined face.
What does a typical jaw augmentation consultation involve?
When meeting with a surgeon, you should discuss your goals for your appearance. You should give your surgeon all your health information, including whether or not you smoke and what medications or vitamins you take. Your surgeon will discuss with you the various techniques and implants that are available. He or she will examine you and perhaps suggest other cosmetic procedures that would help you meet your goals. You can look at before-and-after photos of people who have had jaw augmentation. At the consultation, you should also ask about your surgeon’s credentials and experience with jaw augmentation.
How is jaw augmentation performed?
Depending on the technique and implant used, jaw augmentation takes between 90 minutes and 2 hours (more if reconstruction is needed).
Usually, the implants are placed over your natural jawbone through incisions made on the inside of your cheek. The implants may be sutured or screwed into place on the bone. The incisions are then closed with dissolving sutures. Your head and face may be wrapped to hold the implants in place. This wrapping will be worn postoperatively during the day for a few days and then just at night for a while longer.
What should I expect post-operatively?
For a few days, you will have to take it easy. Sleep on two (or more) pillows to keep your head elevated for 7 to 14 days, or however long your surgeon suggests. Your face will look swollen in the first few days, but this will dissipate. Most swelling is gone within a week, but some can take several weeks to resolve Bruising and swelling are normal and will disappear as you heal.
You will have some discomfort for several weeks, and your diet may be restricted. You may be instructed to rinse your mouth with mouthwash several times a day. Try to avoid rubbing your tongue over the incisions. Also try to avoid smiling or yawning widely, since this can pull on the incisions.
If you experience excessive pain, redness, fever, or other symptoms that do not appear normal, contact your surgeon immediately.
Take it easy for the first 3 weeks after your procedure. Avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects for at least 3 weeks.
You may notice odd sensations of "tightness," tingling, sporadic sharp pain, or "pulling," burning, and cold sensations. These symptoms usually subside within the first few weeks.
When will the stitches be removed?
Your surgeon will remove non-dissolvable sutures after 7 to 10 days. Dissolvable sutures usually dissolve in about 10 days.
When will I be able to see the results?
The results are immediate. You may think your implants look too big at first, but this is because of swelling, and once that goes down, you will see the real effect of the implants.
What are the risks of jaw augmentation?
All surgery has risks. With jaw augmentation, these risks include allergic reaction to anesthetic, infection, excessive bleeding, asymmetry, and dissatisfaction with the results. There is also the risk of the implants shifting out of place. If this happens, a second surgery may be needed to reposition the implant.
Are the results permanent?
Yes, jaw augmentation is permanent unless the implant is removed.
