Table of contents

• Jaw Surgery Overview
• Best Jaw Surgery Clinics in Korea
• Jaw Surgery in Korea
• Alternatives to Jaw Surgery
• Conclusion

Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a transformative medical procedure that corrects irregularities of the jaw bones, aligns the jaws and teeth, and improves facial appearance. This article delves into the intricacies of jaw surgery, its suitability, aftercare, and recovery. It also explores why Korea is a premier destination for this surgery, comparing costs with the USA and highlighting the best clinics in Korea for the procedure.

Jaw Surgery Overview

Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a corrective procedure for jaw and teeth misalignments. It addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns. The surgery is typically recommended when orthodontics alone cannot correct the problem. It involves a collaborative approach between an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon. The procedure is safe when performed by experienced surgeons, although risks like bleeding, infection, and nerve injury exist. Post-surgery, patients may face swelling, pain, and dietary restrictions. Virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3D CT scanning are modern techniques used for optimal results.

Here are the main types of jaw surgery:

Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy)

In an upper jaw surgery, the surgeon targets the upper jaw to correct issues such as:

• A significantly receded or protruding upper jaw
• Crossbite
• Disproportionate tooth visibility
• Open bite
• Midfacial hypoplasia

During the procedure, cuts are made in the bone above the teeth, allowing the top jaw, including the roof of the mouth and upper teeth, to move as one unit. The jaw and upper teeth can be moved forward, backward, up, or down, and are often planned with computer assistance. For open bite cases, excess bone above the molars is removed or shaved away. The realigned jaw is then secured with plates and screws.

Lower Jaw Surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy)

Lower jaw surgery involves modifying the lower jaw to address:

• A receding lower jaw
• A protruding lower jaw

The procedure includes cuts behind the molars and lengthwise down the bone, enabling the front section of the jaw to move forward or backward as needed. The adjustment is stabilized using plates and screws during the healing process.

Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

A genioplasty focuses on correcting a small or receded chin, which is often seen with a severely receded lower jaw. The procedure involves:

• Cutting a segment of the chin bone from the front of the jaw
• Moving the segment forward
• Securing it with plates and screws in its new placement

These surgeries can be performed individually or combined, depending on the patient's specific needs and goals. The aim is to achieve a functional, healthy jaw alignment and an improved facial appearance.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, often requiring a hospital stay of 2-4 days. Incisions are usually inside the mouth to avoid facial scars. The jawbones are cut, moved, and secured with plates and screws. Sometimes, extra bone is added from other body parts. Upper jaw surgery corrects issues like crossbites and open bites, while lower jaw surgery addresses receding or protruding jaws. Chin surgery can correct a small chin. After surgery, initial healing takes about six weeks, with complete healing up to 12 weeks. Orthodontic work continues, potentially for several years, to ensure proper alignment.

1. Jaw Surgery Procedure

The jaw surgery procedure begins with pre-surgical orthodontic treatment, often lasting 12-18 months, to align the teeth. Planning involves X-rays, pictures, and models of the teeth. During surgery, the patient is under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes cuts in the jawbones, moves them into the desired position, and secures them with surgical hardware. The surgery can take 2 to 5 hours, and hospitalization ranges from 1 to 4 days. Post-surgery, patients follow a strict diet and oral hygiene regimen and may experience swelling and discomfort.

2. Who Is Jaw Surgery for?

• Individuals with jaw misalignment issues that cannot be corrected by orthodontics alone.
• Patients with difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing.
• Those with chronic jaw pain or TMJ disorders.
• People with obstructive sleep apnea caused by jaw problems.
• Individuals with facial asymmetry due to jaw discrepancies.
• Patients with a receding chin or protruding jaw.
• Those with a desire to improve facial aesthetics.

3. Jaw Surgery Aftercare

After jaw surgery, patients must adhere to a specific diet and oral hygiene routine. A liquid diet is recommended for the first few weeks, gradually progressing to soft foods. Swelling and discomfort are managed with medication and ice applications. Oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection. Patients may experience changes in sensation and limited jaw movement, which improve over time. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and remove any surgical hardware, like splints or stitches.

4. Jaw Surgery Recovery Period

The initial jaw healing period is about six weeks, with complete healing taking up to 12 weeks. Patients may return to work or school activities several weeks post-surgery, but full recovery can take up to a year. It is possible for additional orthodontic treatment to continue after surgery to refine the bite. Recovery experiences vary, and patients should consult their healthcare provider before resuming exercise or strenuous activities.

Best Jaw Surgery Clinics in Korea

Listed below are some of the best clinics in Korea that offer jaw surgery in Korea:

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1.1 Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic incorporates innovative techniques for jaw reduction surgery spearheaded by Dr. Seo Beom-shin. The clinic aims for dramatic enhancements through a unique approach that focuses on a holistic reshaping from under the ear to the chin's tip. Below, we outline the key features and benefits of opting for jaw reduction surgery at Made Young.

Key Techniques and Innovations

• Know-How 01: Maximizing Impact with a Diagonal Resection Technique Made Young’s procedure involves reducing the jaw's width from under the ear to the chin tip with an oblique resection. This technique aims to create a slender and refined facial silhouette visible from all angles.

• Know-How 02: Eliminating Boundary Lines and the Double-Angle Stair Phenomenon The method is designed to smooth out the reduction of the lower jaw angle and the broad side of the square jaw in one seamless step, preventing the formation of secondary angles or visible step effects on the jawline.

• Know-How 03: Rearranging the Periosteum to Prevent Sagging Skin Post-surgery, the periosteum (the dense layer surrounding bones) is meticulously repositioned above the bone to promote proper settling of tissue, aiming to prevent the downturn of thoracic tissue and sagging skin.

Advantages of Choosing Made Young for Jaw Reduction

• Diagonal Osteotomy: Made Young’s signature jaw surgery technique includes a diagonal osteotomy for a slim and harmonious facial profile.
• No Soft Tissue Sagging: Through advanced periosteum repositioning, Made Young ensures that the postoperative results include smooth, natural-looking contours without the sag of soft tissue.
• CT Scan Case Proofs: The effectiveness of Made Young's techniques is demonstrated through pre and post-operative CT scans, showcasing significant alterations in jaw shape and facial contours.

Made Young’s Approach to Bone Contouring An essential aspect of Made Young’s jaw reduction surgery is the repositioning of the periosteum. This procedure not only avoids unsightly soft tissue sagging but also ensures that the reshaped jawline maintains its refined appearance over time thanks to the properly nourished and supported bone structure.

Do you have any questions about facial contours or jaw surgery? Reach out to Made Young and let them help you achieve the look you've always wanted. Visit their official website for more information or get in touch with them directly through WhatsApp for any inquiries or to schedule a consultation.

1.2 THE PLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery specializes in square jaw surgery, tailoring procedures to individual jaw shapes. The clinic boasts over a decade of expertise and employs advanced medical equipment. Patients receive personalized care, including tissue regeneration and self-care guidance. The clinic's safety system and skilled medical staff ensure optimal outcomes. Operating hours are Monday to Saturday, with a 1:1 consultation bulletin board for inquiries.

Do you have any questions about getting jaw surgery? Reach out to The PLUS Clinic and let them assist you in achieving the appearance you've always desired. Visit their official website for more details or get in touch with them directly through WhatsApp for any inquiries or to schedule a consultation.

2.Cost of Jaw Surgery in Korea

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩5,500,000	$3900
High Price	₩8,800,000	$6200

Exchange rate as of 2024-12-04: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

Jaw surgery in Korea is generally more affordable than in the USA, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the complexity and extent of the surgery. In comparison, the average cost in the USA is around $9,500. Traveling to Korea for jaw surgery can be beneficial due to the lower costs, high-quality care, and the opportunity to combine the procedure with a cultural experience.

Jaw Surgery in Korea

Korea is renowned for its advanced medical technology and highly skilled surgeons, making it a special destination for jaw surgery. Korean clinics offer state-of-the-art facilities and employ innovative techniques like 3D imaging and VSP for precise surgical outcomes. The benefits of undergoing jaw surgery in Korea include access to expert surgeons, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive post-operative care. Additionally, Korea's focus on aesthetic results ensures that patients not only function better but also enjoy improved facial harmony.

Alternatives to Jaw Surgery

For those considering alternatives to jaw surgery, options include orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign, orthodontic camouflage techniques, dental restorations, and facial fillers. These non-surgical methods may be preferred due to the lower risks and invasiveness. However, they may not address significant skeletal discrepancies or functional issues of the jaw.

Conclusion

Jaw surgery in Korea offers a blend of advanced medical expertise, aesthetic finesse, and cost-effectiveness. Patients considering this procedure should weigh the benefits against the risks and recovery time. Consulting with reputable clinics and surgeons is crucial for a successful outcome.