Face Lift

Jaw Augmentation: Frequently Asked Questions

Jaw augmentation can provide basic structure to a face that's out of balance or enhance the existing jawline. If you are considering this procedure, you probably have lots of questions about the surgery, its risks and its recovery period. Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions about mandibular augmentation, along with their answers:

  1. What is jaw augmentation?
  2. At what age can jaw augmentation be performed?
  3. What does a typical jaw augmentation consultation entail?
  4. How is surgical jaw augmentation performed?
  5. What should I expect postoperatively?
  6. When will the stitches be removed?
  7. When will I be able to see the results?
  8. What are the risks of jaw augmentation?
  9. Are the results permanent?

 

1. What is jaw augmentation?

Also known as mandibular augmentation, jaw augmentation uses synthetic implants or nonsurgical options like injectable fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm to enhance the jawline. Jaw augmentation can give balance to a face or further define an existing jawline.

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2. At what age can jaw augmentation be performed?

Jaw augmentation is usually done on people who are at least 18 years old to ensure that the facial structure is at or close to physical maturity.

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3. What does a typical jaw augmentation consultation entail?

A jaw augmentation consultation is your opportunity to discuss your goals and go over your medical history. The surgeon will examine your facial structure, especially along the jawline, and your skin to determine its elasticity. He or she will also discuss the various jaw augmentation techniques, incision placements and risks.

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4. How is surgical jaw augmentation performed?

Surgical jaw augmentation involves making a small incision inside your mouth near where the implant(s) will be placed. Your surgeon then creates a pocket in the tissue to hold it; sometimes screws are used to attach it to the bone. The surgeon then closes the incision with stitches and wraps the area to hold the implant(s) securely in place.

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5. What should I expect postoperatively?

You may be groggy from the anesthetic and probably won't remember much of the procedure. Your face will be at its most swollen during the first three days after surgery; the swelling will dissipate over time. There may be bruising, but this will go away as well. Plan to take it easy and sleep with your head elevated on extra pillows for two weeks, or as long as your surgeon instructs. You will more than likely experience some discomfort for several weeks, and your diet may be restricted due to the healing incision(s) in your mouth. You may be instructed to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash several times a day and to avoid picking at your stitches, which can cause infection.

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6. When will the stitches be removed?

Nondissolvable sutures will probably be removed by your surgeon by postoperative day 10. Removal may be uncomfortable, but it will not be painful.

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7. When will I be able to see the results?

The results are immediate, but you won't see the full effect until the swelling and bruising subside.

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8. What are the risks of jaw augmentation?

The risks of jaw augmentation surgery include an allergic reaction to the anesthetic used, infection, hematoma or seroma, asymmetry, malposition or shifting of the implant, and general dissatisfaction with the results.

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9. Are the results permanent?

Yes, the results of surgical jaw augmentation are permanent. For less permanent results, or to "try on" a jaw augmentation before you commit to surgery, you may want to discuss injectable fillers like Juvederm or Restylane with your surgeon.

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