From 3 types of contouring to the causes of square jaw, frequently asked Q&A before facial contouring surgery compiled.
From the 3 facial contouring types to the causes of a square jaw
Frequently Asked Questions Before Facial Contouring Surgery
Hello. I am Dr. Lee Sang-hoon, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at The Barun Gunguk Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Dental Clinic. When considering facial contouring surgery, many people feel uncertain because they don't know the types of surgery or what method is best suited for them. The facial bones are an area where nerves and blood vessels travel in a complex manner, so it is important to approach it with a precise understanding of its structural characteristics. Today, based on the content discussed in the video, I will objectively present medical information about facial contouring surgery.
Q.1 What are the types of contouring surgery?
Clinically, facial contouring surgery can be broadly classified into three areas: chin augmentation, square jaw reduction, and cheekbone reduction surgery. Chin surgery involves improving a receding chin or adjusting length by bone osteotomy and repositioning, and sometimes segmental osteotomy is used to reduce or enlarge the width. Square jaw surgery has moved away from past resections focused on the mandibular angle, and is now primarily performed using long curved osteotomy to create a natural curve. Cortical osteotomy, which involves removing a certain amount of the outer cortex of the mandible, may also be performed concurrently to reduce the frontal width. Cheekbone surgery characteristically involves cheekbone reduction surgery, where the cheekbones are rotated and repositioned inward, considering the continuity between the temporal region and the anterior cheekbones.
Q.2 Can I have contouring and double jaw surgery done at the same time?
Simultaneous procedures may be planned depending on anatomical conditions and surgical goals. Double jaw surgery is a functional surgery that corrects occlusion by structurally moving the positions of the maxilla and mandible. Contour surgery is a procedure that refines the external contour lines of the bone structure. Therefore, it can be performed concurrently when correction of jawbone deformities or malocclusion is needed, along with aesthetic improvements to the overall facial proportions such as the cheekbones. In particular, it is relatively common to perform chin surgery in conjunction with double jaw surgery to align and balance the proportions of the mandibular anterior teeth.
Q.3 When is revision facial contouring surgery performed?
Contour revision surgery is considered when bone resection is insufficient or excessive compared to the predicted range. If there is still asymmetry or angularity due to insufficient bone removal, remaining bone can be trimmed through a secondary surgery. However, in cases of over-resection, where the mandibular angle is lost or a depression occurs due to excessive bone removal, the alternatives are much more limited. Bone reconstruction using autologous bone grafts or artificial materials must be performed, significantly increasing the difficulty of the surgery. Therefore, it is important to avoid excessive resection during the initial surgery and to plan conservatively within the scope of maintaining skeletal stability.
Q.4 Is contouring surgery for cosmetic purposes?
Facial contouring surgery is generally considered a cosmetic procedure aimed at improving appearance, as it does not alter the bite. However, there are clinical exceptions where some functional benefits can be obtained. In cases of severe micrognathia, performing a genioplasty to advance the chin forward can retract the muscles around the hyoid bone, partially expanding the upper airway space and potentially improving sleep apnea symptoms. It can also alleviate the issue of the lower lip not closing properly due to a retruded chin. Nevertheless, true prognathism or malocclusion involving misaligned teeth requires orthognathic surgery, not contouring surgery, to correct the bite.
Q.5 How to distinguish between bone and muscle as the cause of a square jaw?
The cause of a prominent square jaw, whether it's due to the bone structure itself or the development of the masseter muscle, can be objectively analyzed through a 3D CT scan. This detailed imaging examination measures the thickness and shape of the bone separately from the volume of the overlying soft tissues. If the assessment reveals that the jaw appears enlarged even though the bone protrusion is not significant, it is highly likely due to masseter muscle hypertrophy. This type of muscle-related square jaw can be improved with relatively simple treatments such as Botox injections, without the need for bone resection. Depending on the precise diagnostic results, masseter muscle reduction surgery may also be considered.
Facial contouring surgery is a highly complex medical procedure that requires careful consideration after thoroughly understanding the anatomical structure of the bone and the location of nerve pathways. Since the thickness of the bone, skin elasticity, and the course of nerves vary for each individual, a precise digital simulation process is essential beforehand. If you require a diagnosis due to facial asymmetry or skeletal imbalance, please visit our clinic to accurately assess your condition based on objective data.
This has been Dr. Lee Sang-hoon from The Bareun Gyunghak Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Dental Clinic. Thank you.
Healthcare Institution Name: The Right Contour Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center Address: 2nd and 4th floors, 7 Seojeon-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan Metropolitan City Medical professional explanation: Chief Director Lee Sang-hoon (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon)
※ All surgeries may cause side effects such as bleeding, infection, and nerve damage depending on the individual's condition. Therefore, please make a careful decision after sufficient consultation with a specialist.
