What plan do I need for double jaw surgery and facial contouring?

WOORI Plastic Surgery Clinic

4.5(200+)

If your jaw looks prominent or your face seems long, you may end up looking into double jaw surgery and facial contouring together. They may seem to address similar concerns in photos, but the parts they change and the planning process are different.

Double jaw surgery adjusts the positions of both the upper and lower jaws, while facial contouring mainly refers to refining the outer shape of the cheekbones or jawbone. It is easier to understand the difference by first deciding whether your concern is the bite alignment and jaw position, or the shape of the outer bone.

Jaw position and outer shape are different matters

Not everyone who has a lower jaw that appears protruded from the side needs the same surgery. The relationship between the upper and lower jaws, the way the teeth fit together, and the shape of the chin all need to be considered separately.

Because double jaw surgery changes the position of the jawbones that hold the teeth, it considers both facial appearance and chewing function. On the other hand, facial contouring that only refines the angle or width of the outside of the jaw cannot correct the bite of the upper and lower teeth. Rather than thinking of the two as simply major and minor surgeries, it is important to understand that their goals are different.

CT scans and dental condition are checked together

During consultation, the proportions of the face and any left-right differences are examined, and CT scans are used to check the shape and position of the jawbone and surrounding structures. The bite alignment and the health of the teeth and gums are also assessed. Only by checking parts that are not visible in photos can the scope of what surgery can change be discussed concretely.

Please also mention whether it is difficult to chew food, whether it is hard to bite with the front teeth, or whether you feel discomfort when moving your jaw. However, having such symptoms alone should not lead to the conclusion that double jaw surgery is necessary, nor should you expect everything to improve after surgery. Ask for an explanation of what can be done with orthodontic treatment alone and what requires adjustment of jawbone position, and if you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment or have completed it before, please mention that as well.

See orthodontics and recovery as one plan

Double jaw surgery is not a process that ends once the surgery date is set. Depending on the relationship between the teeth and jaws, orthodontic treatment may be needed before and after surgery, and the order and duration of treatment will also differ. It is better to understand the full schedule, including follow-up visits to check the bite after surgery.

In the early stage, swelling and oral wounds may make eating and speaking uncomfortable. Guidance on what forms of food are possible and when to begin increasing chewing activity should be based on the recovery status of the jawbone and wounds.

Discuss facial changes and what you may need to accept

As the position of the jaw changes, double jaw surgery can also affect the lips and surrounding facial appearance. Rather than focusing only on the side profile you want, the plan should also consider frontal balance, the bite, breathing, and the condition of the jaw joint. It cannot be guaranteed that you will look exactly like a desired photo or that all asymmetry will disappear.

If numbness lasts a long time or swelling becomes severe enough to interfere with daily life, contact the hospital immediately.

After double jaw surgery and facial contouring, swelling, bruising, changes in sensation, asymmetry, and changes in the bite may occur, and results and recovery vary by individual. Please make your decision after sufficient consultation with the medical team.