What are the complications in jaw reduction?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am an 18-year-old female. I was 13 years old when I got my braces. My orthodontist made it in such a way that the lower set of teeth was slanting inwards so that my upper row could be in front.

I do not have trouble chewing. I want a jaw setback surgery as I find my facial structure very unappealing. I do experience stiffness when I open my jaw, even while yawning. I wanted to ask what the surgery actually does: take out bone segments or just push the whole lower jaw back?

What is the risk involved? I have heard that it can damage nerves and cause permanent loss of sensation. Also, is it possible to do nose plastic surgery along with the jaw surgery? I want both surgeries in one go. Please advise.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, you can undergo surgery to reduce the lower jaw, that is mandible, by around 5 mm or so if needed. It is only a slight difference. The advantage is a slight increase in aesthetics later on, probably. Some disadvantage is always present, as you said, nerve damage like permanent anesthesia of partial parts of the cheek, teeth, and lips, or sometimes disfigurement. But the surgery can be done without much external scarring.

The surgical procedure includes removing around 2 to 3 mm of bone from the mandible on both left and right sides and pushing the mandible slightly back. It is done by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, involving plastic surgeons, too. You can do rhinoplasty or nasal bone correction to straighten the surface and give a sharper look. This procedure is done by plastic surgeons mostly.

The main thing is to decide whether correcting the aesthetics would provide you with the perfect look that you desire. Ask your doctor to show you a photo of yourself with the modified look, so that you can decide on your own whether it is worth undergoing surgery. After seeing the attached photos of your facial profile, according to my personal opinion, I would say that your profile is acceptable as it is. (attachment removed to protect patient identity

Also, get an opinion from a plastic surgeon on whether the surgery would be fruitful for you.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.