The Jaw Reduction Procedure
The mandible is the largest and strongest bone in the face, forming the lower jaw and containing the lower teeth. Men tend to have a more prominent mandible bone which creates the square shape to the jaw. The overlying masseter muscle is responsible for chewing and can also be overdeveloped, creating a wider lower third of the face.
Surgery Time
2 – 3 hours
Anaesthetic
General
Hospital Stay
1 – 2 night hospital stay
Time Off Work
1 – 2 weeks
Full Recovery
4 – 6 weeks
A mandibular reduction can be a highly effective procedure to address a too wide, prominent jawline. For women, a feminine jawline is typically slimmer with a rounded V-shape and reducing the mandibular can minimise an overly masculine look. Men may also wish to reduce the width of the jaw to create a more balanced facial appearance.
Mr Juling Ong’s expertise as a facial reconstructive surgeon means he is highly skilled in producing a subtle improvement that achieves a more attractive appearance to the lower face. Mr Ong will carefully plan the procedure to adjust the projection and shape of the jawline and will take into account your individual facial characteristics.
Mr Juling Ong will make intraoral incisions in the lower gums along the jaw, so there is no external scarring post-surgery. The thickness of the bone is shaved down and, if necessary, the corners of the angles are cut to reduce their height and create the curved edge.
Over-developed masseter muscles can be reduced using toxin injectables. Muscle relaxing injections are commonly used in aesthetics to smooth dynamic wrinkles as it temporarily relaxes the facial muscles. Injected into the masseter muscles, it produces a slimmer jawline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downtime like after mandibular reduction?
Jaw reduction surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, and you’ll typically spend one to two nights in hospital. You’ll be advised to wear a compression garment post-surgery.
Mandibular reduction is a relatively painful procedure and normal jaw function will be affected in the first couple of weeks. You will be very swollen afterwards, but most patients can return to work and normal activities after two weeks. You should avoid any strenuous exertion for six weeks after surgery.
Are there any risks associated with mandibular reduction?
One possible risk is infection, and you will be advised on how to care for your wounds to prevent infection. You will be provided with a special mouthwash to prevent bacteria build-up. It is essential you do not smoke during the healing process.
Any other complications associated with jawline reduction?
There is usually significant swelling after jawline reduction surgery, and it can take up to six months for all swelling to subside. Temporary numbness can be a risk if the mental nerve is damaged, but this should resolve itself over time. Asymmetry is also a potential risk that may require further surgery, but Mr Juling Ong will meticulously plan the surgery with computer aided design to increase the reliability and predictability of the desired outcome.
During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain all potential risks and discuss your treatment options in full. Please call us on 020 7927 6528 or email us at info@julingong.com to arrange an appointment.
