The Skinny
Average Recovery
5 months
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Implant
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$2000 - $4000
The Specifics
What is a jaw implant?
Jaw implants are a jaw surgery (or orthognathic surgery) to enhance the definition and angularity of the jawline. An implant jaw surgery does not involve cutting the jaw bone (maxillary osteotomy), produces no visible scarring, and the actual surgery can even be performed under local anesthesia.Jaw implant surgery can help candidates not only improve their facial aesthetic, but can also be used as a corrective jaw surgery for poor oral health and functional problems including misaligned teeth, open bites, overbites, or other improper bites. A jaw surgery may be performed by a plastic surgeon or a specialist maxillofacial surgeon.
What cosmetic concerns does a jaw implant procedure treat?
1. Neck & Jawline Definition: A jaw implant can help to contour, refine, and define the jawline to improve both the facial appearance and neck aesthetic.Who is the ideal candidate for a jaw implant procedure?
The ideal candidate for a jaw implant procedure has an undefined jawline, poor oral function, or other dental abnormalities. Jaw Implants are not recommended for those with severe malocclusion of the lower teeth or periodontal disease.What is the average recovery associated with a jaw implant procedure?
Most swelling, bruising, and discomfort following a jaw implant procedure resolves within the first one to two weeks. A chin and face strap will be placed to assist implant healing and reduce swelling. The mouth and jaw will be sore and stiff for several weeks. Most patients are able to resume activities after two to three weeks.What are the potential side effects of a jaw implant procedure?
Possible side effects following a jaw implant include hematoma, infection, prolonged or poor wound healing, and a shift in implant position.What can someone expect from the results of a Jaw Implant procedure?
The results of a jaw implant procedure will finalize over the course of nine months, however, immediate, permanent results will be visible following the plastic surgery.What is the average cost of a jaw implant procedure?
A jaw implant procedure can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000. The actual cost of a jaw implant is dependent upon location, board certified facial plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.Pros
- More Defined Jawline
- Improved Facial Proportions
Cons
- Possible Asymmetry
- Changes In Sensation
- Long Healing
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Jaw implants can be placed to augment the lower jaw to create more definition in the jawline. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a jaw implant.
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications
- No smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- Do not eat or drink anything for 6 hours prior
- No alcohol for 2 days before
During Treatment
- Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
- Incisions made on the inside of the mouth
- Implant inserted through incisions
- Dissolvable sutures to close incisions
- Bandages applied to manage post-op bleeding
Immediately After Treatment
- Mild to moderate discomfort
- Swelling and bruising on the face and neck
1-14 Days After Treatment
- Liquid to diet for a week
- Swelling and bruising on the face and neck
3 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Mouth will be sore and stiff for several weeks
- Swelling subsides within 3-4 weeks
Result Notes
- Permanent
- Noticeable immediately after surgery
- Final results after 9 months
The Takeaway
Jaw implants are a type of jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) to alter the lower jaw improving facial appearance and/or correcting oral health concerns including open bite or other improper bites. The jaw surgery can be performed by a plastic surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon.
