Are you concerned about the shape of your face? Want to learn about jaw implants?

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, "Hmm... I wish the lower part of my face, that is, my chin, was a little more defined and sharper"? Some people may be a little unhappy with the shape of their jawline. Today we are talking about a medical procedure that can help in such cases. That is a jaw implant, or as it is called in medical science, `(Jaw Implant)` surgery .

What is a Jaw Implant?

Simply put, a jaw implant is a surgical procedure in which a specially designed piece of silicone (solid silicone) is implanted over your existing jawbone. Doctors also call this a jaw augmentation. Just like changing your appearance by putting on a dress, this implant gives the lower part of your face, the jaw, a new shape and a clear, sharp look.

This will make your jaw appear wider and longer . It will also create symmetry between the top of your face and the bottom. The result is a more attractive, defined jaw angle.

Who would think of such a surgery?

There are several reasons why someone might consider this type of surgery. Let's look at the main reasons.

Who is eligible for this surgery?

If you are considering this surgery, there are several factors that will determine whether you are a good candidate for it. A plastic surgeon will examine you and make the final decision. The following are the general criteria for eligibility:

• Not having a chronic condition that affects your jaw or the bones of your body.
• Be in good physical health. In particular, if you use tobacco products, you will need to stop completely a few weeks before surgery. Smoking greatly delays the healing process.
• Your body's bone growth should be completely finished. That means you're usually past your prime.
• Have realistic expectations about the results of surgery. That is, don't expect a fairy-tale change overnight. You need to understand that this is a gradual process.

How do you prepare before surgery?

Your surgeon will give you a series of instructions about what you need to do before surgery. These may include:

• Medical tests : You will be asked to do a physical examination and some blood tests to see if you are healthy enough for surgery.
• Photographing: Several photographs of your face and jaw will be taken. This will help plan the surgery and compare the results before and after surgery.
• Stopping Medications: Your doctor will advise you to stop taking certain medications, vitamins, and even supplements , shortly before your surgery.
• Antibiotics: To reduce the risk of infection, you may be asked to take antibiotics before surgery.
• Quitting smoking : As mentioned earlier, you should completely stop smoking a few weeks before surgery.

How is the surgery performed?

This surgery is performed under general anesthesia . This means you won't feel anything, you'll be completely asleep. The surgery usually takes about two hours.

The steps involved in the surgery are simply as follows:

1. Making the incision: The surgeon will make a small incision inside your mouth, on either side of your lower jaw, near the back teeth (molars).

2. Space preparation: Tissue and fat are gently moved through the incision to create the space needed to place the implant.

3. Placing the implant: The implant is then inserted, positioned in the correct position along your jawbone, and secured to the jawbone with tiny titanium screws .

4. Closing the incision: Finally, the incision inside the mouth is closed with dissolvable stitches or stitches that break after a few weeks.

What happens after the surgery? How is the recovery time?

This is usually an outpatient surgery. This means that you can go home the same day if there are no complications . However, because you were given anesthesia, you will need to bring someone to take you home.

It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions during your recovery.

• Food: For the first few days, you should eat only liquid, bland foods like porridge, yogurt, and soup. Avoid spicy, hard foods until the incisions heal.
• Keeping your mouth clean: To prevent infections, your doctor may recommend using a special antibacterial mouthwash.
• Pain and swelling: There may be some pain and swelling for the first week or so.
• Applying cold compresses to the outside of the jaw can reduce swelling and pain.
• Sleeping with your head slightly elevated, meaning with two or three pillows, is a great way to reduce swelling.
• You can use painkillers prescribed by your doctor for pain. But remember, don't take any medicine without consulting your doctor.

You should be able to resume normal, light activities about a week after surgery. However, ask your doctor when you should start doing things like exercising and lifting weights. It may take several months for the swelling to subside completely and for the final results to be seen.

When should I call the doctor?

If you have any of these symptoms after surgery, call your doctor immediately:

• Excessive bleeding , swelling, or bruising.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Unbearable pain .
• Signs of infection , such as pus draining from the incision or fever.