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When consulting about facial shape, some people mention concerns because the chin appears to protrude forward or because they feel it is difficult to close their mouth. In many such cases, this is often thought of as a condition that needs underbite correction. However, it cannot simply be viewed as a problem with the shape of the chin alone. This is because the position of the jaw, the relationship between the upper and lower jawbones, and even the bite often influence one another. For that reason, the approach can differ from surgery that simply refines the jawline.
Difference Between Orthognathic Surgery and Facial Contouring
When people think of surgery that changes facial shape, they often think of facial contouring surgery. Facial contouring is a surgery that refines the forehead, cheekbones, square jaw, and other areas to shape the overall face.
On the other hand, orthognathic surgery adjusts the position of the upper and lower jaws themselves, correcting both the angle and position of the jawbones. It is not simply about reducing facial contours; because it is a surgery that considers both jaw position and bite, this approach may be necessary in cases that require underbite correction.
Cases That May Require Orthognathic Surgery
Jaw structure problems can appear in various forms. One representative case is an underbite, where the lower jaw is overly developed and appears to protrude forward. In such cases, there may be a feeling that it is difficult to close the mouth, or the chin may look prominent from the side.
In addition, a receding chin where the lower jaw sits back, protruding lips where both the upper and lower jaws project forward, or facial asymmetry where the jaw is shifted to one side may also be problems related to jawbone position. In these cases, rather than simply improving appearance, underbite correction surgery to correct the jaw position may be necessary.
Changes from Correcting Jawbone Position
Orthognathic surgery is the process of moving the maxilla and mandible into the normal range. When the position of the jawbones is adjusted, the proportions and lines of the face can change, and the bite relationship may also improve.
In this way, adjusting the position and angle of the jaw can be seen as an important part of underbite correction surgery.
Expected Changes from Orthognathic Surgery
When orthognathic surgery adjusts the position of the upper and lower jaws, the balance of the facial shape may also change. As the length of the lower face and the position of the chin are adjusted, facial proportions can change, and along with improved bite alignment, the overall impression may become more refined.
In particular, when the lower jaw is positioned too far forward, underbite correction may be performed by adjusting the degree of chin protrusion.
An underbite is not simply a matter of the chin looking large; in many cases, the position of the jawbones and the bite relationship are both involved. Therefore, when considering underbite correction, it is important to accurately diagnose the structure of the jaw and the state of the bite rather than judging based only on appearance.
Because orthognathic surgery takes into account not only facial shape but also the position and functional aspects of the jaw, it is necessary to confirm the current condition accurately through consultation and diagnosis before making a decision.
