Will A Smaller Custom Jaw Implant Create More Definition?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I currently have custom 3D PEKK jaw angle implants in place which was done in Houston. I would like the current implants removed, and replaced with a different custom made jaw implant. I was looking into double jaw surgery to fix slight jaw canting and my midline, but most surgeons agree that my case is not severe enough to warrant such an invasive surgery. Instead, I would like to have a different design of implants that is more modest, smaller in shape and thickness, and fit more into the Korean aesthetic. My main concerns is symmetry and balance, while also providing more jawline definition rather than the “roundedness” that I currently have.

A:According to the attached design file those jaw implants are fairly large and have a very square angle shape to them. I can certainly see how one can perceive them as too big. (although I have not seen any before and after pictures of the change) But the only aesthetic judgment that matter is yours so if you think they are too big then they are. Certainly smaller jaw implants can be made and placed and the size issue addressed. What I do not see as happening is improved jawline definition when implants are down sized. Definition comes from stretching out the overlying soft tissues creating  better show of the implant/bone underneath. (in other words increasing the hard to soft tissue ratio) When decreasing an implant’s size that ratio reverses a bit and more soft tissue ‘appears’, thus decreasing the favorable definition ratio.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon