Our Summary

This study looked at how surgery to advance the upper and lower jaw (maxillomandibular surgery) affects the shape and position of the nose and upper lip. The researchers used 3D imaging to analyze changes in these facial features before and after surgery. They found that after surgery, the base of the nose got wider, the nose tip protruded less, the upper lip became flatter and slightly longer, and the nose tip moved upward, causing an increase in the curve of the nose. They also found that the angles of the nose and upper lip changed. These changes were correlated with the movements made during surgery. This suggests that this type of surgery has a significant impact on the shape and position of the nose and upper lip. The team also created mathematical models to predict these changes based on the surgical adjustments.

FAQs

  1. What are the effects of maxillomandibular surgery on the shape and position of the nose and upper lip?
  2. How were the changes in facial features measured in this study on jaw surgery?
  3. Could the changes to the nose and upper lip after maxillomandibular surgery be predicted?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to be prepared for potential changes in the shape and position of the nose and upper lip. This is a common outcome of maxillomandibular surgery and is a result of the adjustments made during the procedure. It’s important to discuss any concerns or questions about these potential changes with your surgeon before undergoing surgery. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions and attending follow-up appointments can help ensure the best possible outcome after jaw surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for jaw surgery include those with:

  1. Severe underbite or overbite
  2. Jaw misalignment (malocclusion)
  3. Difficulty chewing or speaking due to jaw problems
  4. Facial asymmetry caused by jaw abnormalities
  5. Sleep apnea or other breathing problems related to jaw structure
  6. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  7. Chronic jaw pain or headaches related to jaw alignment issues
  8. Difficulty closing the lips or mouth properly
  9. Congenital facial abnormalities affecting jaw development
  10. Patients seeking cosmetic improvements to their facial profile.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Patient consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and expectations.
  2. Pre-surgical assessments including X-rays, CT scans, and dental molds to plan the surgery.
  3. Pre-operative appointments with the surgical team to discuss the procedure, recovery process, and any potential risks.
  4. Orthodontic treatment to prepare the teeth and jaws for surgery, which may include wearing braces or other appliances.
  5. Mental and emotional preparation for the surgery, including addressing any concerns or fears.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in the hospital or surgical facility, including monitoring for complications and managing pain.
  2. Recovery period at home, which may involve a liquid or soft food diet, pain management, and follow-up appointments with the surgical team.
  3. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the face and jaw, which gradually improve over the following weeks.
  4. Gradual return to normal activities and resumption of a regular diet as healing progresses.
  5. Follow-up appointments with the surgical team for monitoring of healing, adjustment of orthodontic appliances, and assessment of the surgical results.
  6. Orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the alignment of the teeth and jaws, if necessary, to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes.
  7. Long-term monitoring of the results of the surgery to ensure stability and address any potential issues that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about jaw surgery include:

  1. What specific changes can I expect in the shape and position of my nose and upper lip after maxillomandibular surgery?
  2. How will these changes affect my overall facial appearance and symmetry?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with these aesthetic changes?
  4. Can you show me before and after images of patients who have undergone similar jaw surgery to get an idea of the potential outcomes?
  5. How long will it take for the final results of the surgery to be fully visible?
  6. Will I need any additional procedures, such as rhinoplasty or lip augmentation, to achieve my desired aesthetic goals?
  7. Can you explain the mathematical models used to predict changes in facial features after surgery?
  8. What post-operative care and follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor the changes in my nose and upper lip?
  9. Are there any non-surgical options or alternatives to address concerns about the shape and position of my nose and upper lip?
  10. Can you provide references or testimonials from previous patients who have undergone similar jaw surgery and experienced changes in their facial features?

Reference

Authors: Allar ML, Movahed R, Wolford LM, Oliver DR, Harrison SD, Thiesen G, Kim KB. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2019 Nov-Dec;30(8):2560-2564. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000005876. PMID: 31689731