How Does Jaw Surgery Change Your Face?
Understanding the facial changes from orthognathic surgery helps set expectations. Here is what typically changes.
Orthognathic surgery changes the underlying bone structure of your face, which naturally changes your facial appearance. The extent of change depends on the type and amount of movement.
Changes by surgery type:
- Upper jaw surgery (maxillary advancement):
- Midface projection increases
- The nose may appear slightly wider or more lifted
- The cheeks appear fuller
- Gummy smile is reduced if the jaw is moved up
- Nasolabial folds may soften
- Lower jaw surgery (mandibular advancement):
- The chin moves forward, improving profile
- The lower jaw appears stronger and more defined
- The jawline looks more angular
- The lower lip position changes
- The angle between the neck and chin improves
- Double jaw surgery:
- The most comprehensive facial change
- Both midface and lower face are balanced
- Overall facial harmony improves
- The profile becomes more balanced
- Genioplasty:
- Chin position changes independently
- Can make a weak chin stronger or a strong chin softer
What Does NOT Change
- Your eye shape
- Your nose shape (though upper jaw surgery can slightly affect nasal appearance)
- Your skin quality
- Your natural features β you will look like a better version of yourself
Clinical Guidance
Jaw surgery changes your facial structure by repositioning the underlying bone. These changes can significantly improve facial balance and profile while still maintaining your natural appearance. The goal is harmony, not transformation into a different person.