Jaw Surgery FAQ

Procedures Menu

Angle of Jaw Implants FAQs

What is an angle of jaw implant procedure?
This procedure is designed to give definition to a jaw that is narrow and/or has a soft angle by using implants that are inserted into the jaw area.

Who is the best candidate for an angle of jaw implant?
The best candidate for an angle of jaw implant is a man or woman who is physically healthy, realistic in their expectations, and interested in enhancing the appearance of a weak or narrow jaw.

What can I expect during a consultation before undergoing an angle of jaw implant procedure?
The surgeon should examine your jaw and skin and discuss your goals. He or she should discuss your options for treatment, your medical history, and all details of the procedure.

Where can an angle of jaw implant procedure be performed?
This procedure may be performed in a surgeon's office, a surgical facility, or a hospital. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 62% of cosmetic surgery procedures performed by their member doctors in 2004 took place in an office, 21% in a hospital, and 17% in a free-standing ambulatory surgical facility.

What type of anesthesia is used for jaw surgery?
Jaw surgery is often performed with general anesthesia.

How is jaw surgery performed?
Incisions are made inside of the mouth and a space or pocket is created for the implant. The implant is then inserted at the proper angle and then secured in place with sutures.

How long does jaw surgery last?
Jaw surgery takes between one and two hours to complete.

Where are the incisions made for jaw surgery?
The incisions are typically made inside of the mouth between the lower lip and the boney jaw.

Are there scars after jaw surgery?
Because the incisions for jaw surgery are typically made inside of the mouth, no visible scarring will result.

Is jaw surgery painful?
Patients tend to feel mild to moderate discomfort during the first one to two days after jaw surgery.

Will I be able to drive myself home after jaw surgery?
You will most likely need someone to drive you home after surgery, particularly if you are receiving general anesthesia.

What is the recovery like after jaw surgery?
The jaw will be bandaged or taped right after surgery. Patients typically feel mild to moderate discomfort for the first one to two days after surgery. Some amount of swelling can be expected, most of which will fade over several days though some specific swelling can remain for several months and may disguise the final result. Your diet and activities will likely be restricted at first, and smiling, talking, or moving the mouth may be limited for several days to weeks.

How much time will I need to take off from work after jaw surgery?
Most patients find that they can return to work and other normal activities within a week after surgery, though it may take two weeks before you look socially acceptable.

When can I run or lift weights after jaw surgery?
More strenuous activities, particularly activities which risk jarring or bumping the face, should be avoided for four to six weeks.

When are the stitches removed after jaw surgery?
Stitches are typically five to ten days after surgery. When dissolvable sutures are used, as they typically are when placed inside of the mouth, they will dissolve on their own in about the same time.

What are the risks or complications of jaw surgery?
The potential risks or complications that can occur with jaw surgery include an adverse anesthesia reaction, implant shifting, infection, and the need for additional surgery.

Does insurance cover jaw surgery?
Procedures performed for purely cosmetic reasons are typically not covered by insurance. Be sure to check with your own insurance carrier regarding the degree and/or availability of coverage.

Is it possible to get jaw surgery financed?
Financing is available for facial plastic surgery procedures. Your plastic surgeon should be able to provide you with further information about financing.

What should I look for in a Toronto plastic surgeon to perform jaw surgery?
It's important that you do your homework and carefully choose the surgeon to perform your procedure. First, make sure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). This ensures that they've completed the proper training to safely conduct your procedure according ABPS standards. You can visit the ABPS's website at www.plasticsurgery.org to locate a certified plastic surgeon in your area. You should also ask any potential surgeon the following questions:

• Does the surgeon have privileges to perform surgery in an accredited hospital and, if so, which hospitals?
• How many jaw implant procedures has the surgeon performed?
• Where and how will the surgery be performed?
• Is the surgical facility accredited by a nation or state-recognized accrediting organization?
• What are the risks of your particular procedure?

Are there any medications that need to be avoided before surgery?
With any surgery, it's important that you monitor your medication and vitamin intake beforehand because some medications can interfere with anesthesia, inhibit recovery, or lead to blood loss or other circulation issues. Make sure that you tell your doctor prior to surgery about all medications, vitamins and herbal supplements that you take. Some medications that you may be required to stop taking may include aspirin, MAOIs, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin K, vitamin E, evening primrose oil, St. John's Wort, echinacea, melatonin, and others.

Looking for more information? Click here to contact a Toronto plastic surgeon.