Does Jaw Surgery Improve Facial Profile?
One of the most noticeable outcomes of orthognathic surgery is the change in facial profile. Here is what typically changes.
Yes β jaw surgery often produces the most dramatic change in the side profile (lateral view) of the face. This is because the profile is most affected by the position of the upper and lower jaws.
- Upper jaw advancement (midface):
- The area below the nose projects forward
- The "sunken" or flat midface appearance improves
- The nose may appear slightly more prominent
- The cheeks appear fuller
- The upper lip comes forward
- Lower jaw advancement (chin and lower face):
- The chin moves forward, improving the "weak chin" profile
- The lower lip and chin relationship improves
- The jawline looks stronger and more defined
- The neck-chin angle improves
- Lower jaw setback (overbite correction):
- The prominent chin is reduced
- The lower face is shortened
- The profile becomes more balanced
- Double jaw surgery:
- The most comprehensive profile change
- Both the midface and lower face are balanced
- The overall facial harmony improves
- The lip relationship at rest improves
What Does Not Change
- Your eye position
- Your forehead and brow
- Your nose tip (upper jaw surgery can slightly affect the nasal base)
- Your skin and soft tissue quality
Clinical Guidance
Orthognathic surgery produces significant, permanent changes to your facial profile. Whether it is advancing a recessed chin, reducing a prominent jaw, or balancing the midface, the profile changes are typically one of the most satisfying outcomes for patients.