Introduction
The appearance of the jaw plays a significant role in facial aesthetics. A wide mandibular angle can sometimes make the face look square or disproportionate, affecting one's self - confidence. In New York City, there are several hospitals and clinics that offer a variety of treatments to address this concern. This article will explore some of the top places where you can get effective solutions for improving a wide mandibular angle.
Mount Sinai
Comprehensive Jaw Treatment Services
Mount Sinai is well - known for its expertise in treating various jaw deformities. The plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Mount Sinai work as a team of specialists. They coordinate the patient's care with dentists, orthodontists, and other plastic surgeons as needed. The goal is to restore both the function and appearance of the jaw, providing the best possible outcome.
Conditions Treated
- Mandibular Hyperplasia (Prognathism): This condition is characterized by an excess of the lower third of the face, making it very prominent. It may also include an underdeveloped upper jaw.
- Mandibular Hypoplasia: Patients with this condition have a small lower jaw, an overbite (skeletal malocclusion), and may have a tall upper jaw and long - face syndrome. It can cause the lower jaw to appear small and rotate backward.
- Maxillary Hypoplasia: It appears as a small upper jaw with a shallow, concave mid - face and an underbite (skeletal malocclusion). The lower jaw can be undersized, oversized, or normal. It may also be associated with a cleft of the lip and palate or other craniofacial syndromes.
- Vertical Maxillary Deficiency (Short Face Syndrome): This can cause an older appearance due to a lack of sufficient dental show from a vertical deficiency of the upper jaw.
- Vertical Maxillary Excess (Long Face Syndrome): It results in a long - faced appearance with a possible open bite where the teeth do not come together. This is due to excess vertical height of the upper jaw, more growth at the back of the maxilla compared to the front, and an associated shortness of the lower jaw.
Orthognathic Surgery
Mount Sinai also performs orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery for overbites, underbites, and crossbites. This procedure involves moving the upper and lower jaws to an anatomically correct position. It allows for a good occlusion (bite), opening of the airway, and facial symmetry. Patients with a bad bite (malocclusion), facial asymmetry, or moderate - to - severe sleep apnea may be candidates for this surgery. The treatment sequence begins with an evaluation by an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Advanced 3D x - rays and computer - assisted technology are used for treatment planning. The virtual surgical planning (VSP) process allows the surgeon to “rehearse” the surgery in a virtual environment before performing it in the operating room. This helps predict the outcome and is used to fabricate surgical guides for accurate transfer to the operating room.
Dr. Edmund Kwan
Jawbone Reduction Expertise
Dr. Edmund Kwan is one of the few plastic surgeons in the nation who offers jawbone reduction surgery. He has offices in Fort Lee, New Jersey, Manhattan, New York, and Flushing, Queens, New York. For individuals with large, broad jaws that make the face look square and affect self - image and confidence, Dr. Kwan provides a solution.
Jawbone Reduction Procedure
Jawbone reduction surgery, also known as jaw shaving or jaw contouring, is designed to reduce oversized jaws and create harmony among facial features. It slims and softens the lower portion of the face. Dr. Kwan begins by understanding the patient's desired outcome and uses three - dimensional imaging software to help patients visualize the possible results. There are different techniques for the procedure:
- Access from inside the mouth: The incision is made near the molars inside the mouth. This is usually the preferred technique as it eliminates the potential for external scarring and reduces the risk of nerve damage. The procedure involves removing a small amount of bone, muscle, or both to reduce the size of the jaw. Dr. Kwan then refines the shape by shaving certain parts of the bone and positioning the muscle in an ideal location.
Other Jaw Shaping Procedures
Dr. Kwan offers a comprehensive range of treatment options:
- Minor Surgical Contouring: Some patients only need a small amount of jawbone reduction. In such cases, Dr. Kwan shaves a bit of the bone instead of cutting it. The process and incision locations are similar to full jawbone reduction, but the procedure is less invasive.
- Jaw Augmentation: This is popular among male patients who feel that unusually small jaws make them appear too feminine. It helps to add volume and definition to the jaw.
- Correction of Asymmetry: When the size or shape of the jaw differs from one side to the other, causing facial disproportion and asymmetry, reduction, augmentation, shaping, or a combination of techniques can be used to restore symmetry to the jawline and the face.
- Non - surgical Jaw Shaping: Dr. Kwan is also skilled in providing non - surgical aesthetic procedures. For patients who don't want surgery or are not good candidates, he may recommend Botox injections. These injections soften the muscles, giving the jawline a slimmer, softer, and more contoured appearance.
Aftercare and Recovery
The average recovery time for jawbone reduction surgery is a few weeks, but it can vary depending on the technique used and the amount of bone removed. Side effects may include temporary bruising, swelling, and numbness. Dr. Kwan provides detailed aftercare instructions, such as sleeping with the head elevated for the first few days, rinsing the mouth frequently with a recommended mouthwash, and eating soft foods for the first couple of weeks.
Robert M. Schwarcz, MD
Jaw Angle Implants
Robert M. Schwarcz, MD offers jaw angle implants, which have become more common in recent years. These facial implants can be beneficial for patients who want to reshape their jaws. If an individual believes their jaw is excessively narrow, a jaw angle implant can help make it broader and stronger. They are also effective for those who are concerned about facial definition and want to achieve better facial harmony and symmetry.
Implant Options
Patients can choose between vertical lengthening and lateral width jaw angle implants. Vertical lengthening treatments are suitable for people with comparatively high jaw angle locations. Lateral width jaw angle implants are for those who want wider jaw angles exclusively. These implants can make the interior section of the jaw wider, give the jaw a more “square” appearance, and increase the length of the jaw. For patients with multiple concerns, jaw implants can achieve great results. The plastic surgeon places the inserts from the interior of the mouth, so there is no visible scarring.
Youthful Appearance
Jaw angle implants can also help patients look younger. Jaw angles with increased definition and contouring contribute to a more youthful and fresh appearance. If you're interested in revamping your looks with a sharp new jawline, you can call the office to learn more about the ease and effectiveness of receiving jaw angle implants.
Gotham Plastic Surgery
The G.I. Jaw® Procedure
Facial plastic surgeon Philip Miller, MD, FACS, at Gotham Plastic Surgery in New York offers the innovative G.I. Jaw® procedure for male patients. This procedure enhances the jawline and chin to create a chiseled and masculine appearance. A well - defined lower face, including the jaw, chin, and submental area beneath the chin, is considered a hallmark of masculinity. It is thought that strengthening the jawline adds to a man's sex appeal and overall attractiveness, making him more confident and appear more fit.
Treatment Options
Dr. Miller's procedure can include one or a combination of the following:
- Facial Injectables: Such as Botox®, Restylane®, Juvéderm®, Voluma®. For example, Voluma is a facial filler that can lift, define, and/or enhance a jawline for a more masculine appearance. It can be injected along the jaw or directly under the chin.
- Kybella®: Made with a synthetic form of fat - fighting deoxycholic acid, it can target and destroy fat cells for a more sculpted jawline and a better chin profile, making it ideal for individuals with a double chin.
- Liposuction: This can be used to remove excess fat in the jaw and neck area to enhance the jawline.
- Neck - tite: A procedure that can help tighten the skin and tissue in the neck area, contributing to a more defined jawline.
- Facial Implants: Although not always necessary in the G.I. Jaw® procedure, implants can be used to enhance the jawline and chin.
Candidate Criteria
Men seeking a more defined, shapely jawline or jaw angle, a sculpted transition between the jaw and neck, those dissatisfied with their “weak” chin, and men in relatively good overall health are candidates for the G.I. Jaw® procedure.
Park Smiles NYC
Mandibular Angle Implants
Park Smiles NYC offers mandibular angle implants as a way to improve the jawline. A strong and defined jawline is considered a beautiful feature for both men and women. These implants are used to achieve aesthetically pleasing corrections of abnormal facial proportions due to congenital defects, trauma, or aging.
Benefits of Mandibular Angle Implants
- They can create a more angled or defined look in both males and females and are customized on computer - generated models to perfectly fit the patient.
- They provide a natural look from both the front and side/profile views.
- They are extremely powerful in effecting dramatic changes in the shape of the jaw and the entire lower third of the face.
- The implants are inserted from inside the mouth, so scarring is not a concern.
The Procedure
Dr. Cohen at Park Smiles NYC uses advanced 3D imaging to assess the patient's specific condition. This technology allows for a surgical plan with a high level of accuracy. The implant, made of silicone and shaped like a saddle, is relatively easy to implant. The surgical technique involves an intraoral incision and the development of a subperiosteal pocket at the mandibular angle area, often performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia. The satisfaction rate of mandibular angle implants is high, and the complications are easy to manage.
Douglas Monasebian, MD
Jaw Implants
Dr. Douglas Monasebian offers jaw or mandible implants in New York. These implants increase the width of the lower third of the face by the angles of the jaw. A weak jaw, which is not well - defined and slopes rather than angles from the ear to the chin, can contribute to facial imbalance. Similar to chin implant placement, Dr. Monasebian places jaw implants through incisions inside the mouth, so there is no visible scarring.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several excellent options for those looking to improve a wide mandibular angle. Each hospital and clinic has its own area of expertise, whether it's corrective jaw surgery, jawbone reduction, jaw angle implants, or other innovative procedures. Mount Sinai offers comprehensive treatment for jaw deformities and orthognathic surgery. Dr. Edmund Kwan is a leading expert in jawbone reduction and offers a variety of jaw - shaping procedures. Robert M. Schwarcz, MD provides jaw angle implants for reshaping and enhancing the jaw. Gotham Plastic Surgery's G.I. Jaw® procedure is a great option for men seeking a more masculine jawline. Park Smiles NYC offers mandibular angle implants, and Douglas Monasebian, MD provides jaw implants.
If you are considering a procedure to improve your mandibular angle, it is important to consult with a qualified professional. Each patient's situation is unique, and a personalized treatment plan is essential for achieving the best results. Take the time to research these options, schedule consultations, and make an informed decision about your facial aesthetics. Share this article with others who may be interested in improving their mandibular angle, and continue exploring related topics to learn more about facial plastic surgery.
