There are inherent risks to jaw augmentation surgery, as there are with all types of surgery. These risks are rare but can include general risks that can occur with any surgery, such as infection or excessive bleeding, and risks related specifically to jaw implants and to your satisfaction with the results of the procedure. Each risk must be considered carefully before undergoing jaw augmentation.

General Medical Risks
Infection is quite rare with jaw augmentation procedures, but it can occur. If an infection develops, it will do so within the first couple of weeks after surgery. Signs of an infection include redness, severe swelling, discharge, a foul smell, severe pain, or a fever over 100.5 degrees.

You could bleed excessively during or after the surgery. In addition, a type of a blood clot called a hematoma could form, as can a seroma, a pocket of watery fluid.

There is also the possibility that you could have a bad reaction to the anesthesia.

Jaw Implant Shifting (Displacement) and Asymmetry
In jaw augmentation surgery, an implant is usually placed on either side of the jaw. If your surgeon puts one slightly out of alignment with the other or if one implant shifts, your jaw may look asymmetrical. Swelling or trauma can also contribute to asymmetry or shifting. If this occurs, a second surgery may be required to reposition the implant. Bear in mind that the two sides of your face may heal at different rates, which means that your jaw may be asymmetrical during the recovery period.

Extended Loss of Sensation (Numbness)
Loss of sensitivity is also a risk associated with jaw augmentation surgery. There is usually a temporary loss of sensation in the treatment area. This loss of sensitivity usually subsides, but in rare cases there may be a permanent loss of sensation in the jaw area.

For useful information about a variety of cosmetic surgery topics, read this General
Cosmetic Surgery Information.

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