Cosmetic Jaw Surgery Risks
There are inherent risks to jaw augmentation surgery. These risks may include general risks related to the procedure, medical risks like infection, and risks of dissatisfaction with the result of the procedure. Each risk should be considered carefully as the patient should be aware of all the possibilities before undergoing jaw enhancement surgery.
Infection
The risk of infection exists, although it occurs quite rarely in jaw augmentation procedures. Infections usually develop within the first 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Signs of an infection include redness, severe swelling, discharge, a foul smell, severe pain, or a fever over 100.5 F.
Hematoma and Seroma
Post-operative bleeding is one of the blood-related risks associated with jaw augmentation surgery. Additionally, the blood may not circulate properly. When this happens the resulting conditions may include:
- Hematoma a blood clot in a particular area
- Seroma watery portion of the bloods clots in a particular area
- Thrombosis abnormal clotting
Jaw Implant Shifting (Displacement) and Asymmetry
Asymmetry may result when the surgeon positions the jaw implant poorly during the procedure. Swelling, trauma, or a hematoma can also contribute to asymmetry or shifting. When this occurs, a second surgery may be required to reposition the implant into a more favorable position.
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 numbness usually subsides, although in rare cases it may be permanent.
Contraindications for Jaw Augmentation Surgery
People who are in poor physical or emotional health, or who have unreasonable expectations, nonelastic skin, existing medical conditions, or bone disorders are not ideal candidates for jaw augmentation surgery.
Additionally, jaw augmentation patients should not have used Accutane in the last six months. This substance may cause an increase in the bone matter growth rate, known as hyperostosis, and are at greater risk for developing keloid scarring from their incisions.
