Jawline Reconstruction

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am interested in jawline reconstruction.I had upper and lower jaw surgery in 2012 where I was referred by my orthodontist and convinced that I needed it. However, they ruined my face and my bite has subsequently shifted. I would like a sharp jawline. Is it possible to get implants? Now, I cannot close my mouth properly and I have a weak chin.

A: While I do not know what you looked like previously, I can see now that you have a very steep mandibular plane (high jaw angles) and a recessed chin. From a jaw angle standpoint, vertical lengthening jaw angle implants are needed to drop the angle down and provide a more square angle shape. (not really square but closer to 110 degrees) Given that you have had prior jaw surgery (and I assume a sagittal split mandibular osteotomy, SSRO), your jaw angles are likely asymmetric and scarred. Custom jaw angle implants would be the ideal method for these unique jaw angle shapes.

For the chin the options would be either a sliding genioplasty or an implant as part of a total jawline implant which includes the jaw angles. Initially I would favor a sliding genioplasty because the vertical height of your chin needs to be reduced. But a custom implant may be designed this way also.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana