Jaw Implant
Jaw angle augmentation with implants has been one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in recent years. The reason for this popularity is its significant impact on improving facial proportion and creating a defined, balanced jawline. However, jaw augmentation is not always for aesthetic reasons; some individuals seek repair due to congenital defects or facial trauma. In this article, we comprehensively examine jaw implants, their types, surgical techniques, and suitable conditions for undergoing this procedure.
What Is Jaw Angle Augmentation?
Creating a defined jaw angle is a cosmetic surgical method that can have a positive impact on an individual's face. Some people genetically have jaws that are smaller or larger than the standard, or their jaw does not harmonize with other facial features. Jaw angle surgery helps these individuals achieve a natural, balanced, and beautiful appearance.
In some cases, jaw reshaping surgery is not solely for beauty. For example, jaw surgery may be necessary to enhance the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment. Generally, a specialist physician will help you determine whether you need this surgical method.
What Is a Jaw Implant?
Implants are devices manufactured using state-of-the-art technology and materials compatible with the human body. They serve both aesthetic and therapeutic purposes. For jaw angle augmentation, implants are used that the surgeon places in the jaw area.
The permanence of implants is the main reason for individuals' interest in having them placed. Other methods of jaw and face contouring may be simpler, but their durability is usually limited to just a few months. Therefore, individuals who wish to permanently define their jaw angles use jaw implants.
How Are Jaw Implants Placed?
Implants are used as replacements to complete or correct the shape of natural jaws. Jaw implants are often made from materials such as specialized plastics, silicone, or composite materials and are selected based on the individual's needs and anatomical status.
Using a jaw implant can be beneficial in cases such as loss of natural symmetry, jaw recession, lack of harmony between the jaw and other facial parts, and even when natural jaws are unable to create the desired shape. Jaw implants not only improve the function of the mouth and jaws but also assist patients aesthetically by restoring facial harmony.
Types of Jaw Implants
For jaw angle augmentation, two main types of implants are used, which we introduce below:
1. Polyethylene Implants (Medpor)
Polyethylene implants, known in our country as "Medpor," are considered the best type of implant for jaw angle augmentation. This type of implant comes in various models and sizes, allowing the physician to cut and shape it according to the individual's facial structure. Consequently, jaw angle augmentation with polyethylene implants creates a natural look that is fully harmonious with the face. These implants have tiny pores that allow surrounding tissues to grow into them, resulting in better stabilization of the implant.
2. Silicone Implants
These implants have less variety and are therefore used for individuals whose facial shape is not unique and who do not require implants with specific characteristics. Jaw angle surgery with silicone implants is simpler than with Medpor and has a shorter recovery period. However, the naturalness of the final result largely depends on the surgeon's skill and the correct selection of the implant size.
Surgical Technique for Jaw Implant Placement
To perform this operation, the surgeon first thoroughly examines the facial shape and selects or customizes the appropriate implant. After selecting the implant, a small incision is made inside the mouth (within the oral cavity) to place the implant in the desired location. Finally, the surgeon fixes the implant in place using special screws and closes the incision with sutures.
It is essential to note that for polyethylene implants (Medpor), the implant must be fixed with screws to prevent any potential displacement. While silicone implants can be placed without screws, surgeons prefer to fix them to avoid position changes.
Jaw angle augmentation with implants is performed under general anesthesia. Since the incision is made inside the mouth, no visible scar remains on the face. The duration of this surgery, depending on the complexity of the operation, is usually between 1 to 2 hours.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Jaw Implants?
Jaw angle augmentation with implants is generally recognized as a cosmetic procedure. Individuals who desire a more angular face and a more defined jawline undergo this surgery. Additionally, in cases where genetic anomalies or trauma have caused asymmetry or recession in the jaw, this method can also have a reconstructive aspect.
However, augmentation with implants is not suitable for everyone. This method is not recommended for those with wide, broad faces or short, thick necks, as the boundary between the head and neck area is not clearly distinguishable in these individuals, and performing augmentation may not create significant changes. Generally, this surgery yields better results for individuals with thin, elongated faces. Of course, individuals with round faces can also achieve their desired results with the help of an experienced specialist surgeon.
Before the operation, a precise examination of jaw relationships, facial proportions, and facial ratios is essential. If corrections to these relationships are needed, they must be performed first to ensure satisfactory final results.
Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Jaw Implants?
Like other cosmetic surgeries, jaw angle augmentation with implants is not suitable for everyone. The following groups are generally not considered suitable candidates for this surgery:
- Individuals with uncontrolled chronic diseases that can interfere with the healing process
- Smokers who are unwilling or unable to quit smoking
- Individuals who have unrealistic expectations from surgical results
- Individuals who do not have good general health
- Individuals with wide, broad faces or short, thick necks (due to lack of significant change)
Before deciding to undergo jaw angle augmentation with implants, consultation with a specialist surgeon and a thorough review of individual conditions is essential.
Post-Operative Care for Jaw Implants
After jaw implant surgery, strict adherence to care recommendations plays a key role in the success of the operation, reducing complications, and achieving desirable results. These cares typically include:
- Using cold compresses in the initial days to reduce swelling and bruising
- Getting adequate rest and sleeping with the head elevated above the body level in the initial days
- Following a soft diet and liquids in the initial days (due to the intraoral incision)
- Caring for incision sites and internal oral sutures according to the physician's instructions
- Taking prescribed medications to control pain and prevent infection
- Regular visits to the physician to monitor the recovery process and check the implant status
- Paying attention to warning signs such as fever, severe redness, unusual bleeding, or uncontrollable pain and promptly informing the physician
Final Thoughts
Jaw angle augmentation with implants is one of the most effective and long-lasting surgical methods for improving facial proportion, creating a defined jawline, and enhancing facial beauty. The use of polyethylene (Medpor) or silicone implants, tailored to the facial anatomy and needs of each individual, allows for the creation of a natural result that harmonizes with other facial features. The ultimate success of this operation depends on factors such as choosing a skilled surgeon, precise pre-operative evaluation of jaw and facial relationships, selecting the appropriate type and size of implant, and having realistic expectations. It is recommended to consult with a specialist physician before making any decision and to choose your treatment path with full awareness.