A chiseled jawline is a desirable feature for many individuals, especially cisgender or transgender men who want to achieve a more masculine appearance. If you are considering jaw augmentation, it is helpful to know what to expect during recovery so that you can effectively prepare for surgery.
What is Jaw Augmentation?
Jaw augmentation is a cosmetic surgery that enhances jawline definition and symmetry in the lower face. Board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon Dr. Deschamps-Braly performs jaw augmentation with a number of different types of implants based on the specifics of the patient’s case. These implants are customizable and are carefully tailored to each patient’s facial anatomy and desired goals. During the procedure, incisions are made inside the mouth so that there are no visible scars. The jaw implants will be permanently attached to the jaw bone using titanium screws. These implants enhance the projection of the jaw to achieve a more angular contour and stronger facial profile.
Who is a Candidate for Jaw Augmentation?
Healthy individuals who desire a more sculpted or masculine jawline are the ideal candidates for jaw augmentation with implants. Jaw augmentation can be performed alone or included in facial masculinization surgery procedures to create a sharper, more angular jawline. During your consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly, qualifications for surgical candidacy and options for jaw augmentation will be discussed in detail.
How to Prepare for Jaw Augmentation
Before receiving jaw augmentation, patients will schedule a consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly to discuss their treatment goals in detail. A physical examination or blood tests may be needed to ensure that patients are healthy and can safely receive surgery. Before jaw implant surgery, patients will need to stop taking certain medications and supplements. Smoking should also be avoided for at least six weeks before your surgery date to limit the risk of complications. Antibiotics may be prescribed before surgery to prevent infection.
What to Expect After Jaw Augmentation
After jaw augmentation, patients should expect moderate swelling that will start to improve after 24-48 hours. Mild to moderate discomfort is also common but prescription or over-the-counter pain medications often keep patients comfortable. We also recommend that patients sleep with their heads elevated for a few days and use cold compresses as needed to limit swelling. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks or until patients have been cleared by Dr. Deschamps-Braly.
While the incisions are healing, patients should eat a soft diet or liquid diet while avoiding spicy foods and food or drinks that are too hot or too cold. Antibacterial mouthwash and antibiotics will limit the risk of infection and help your incisions heal quickly.
Jaw Augmentation Results
The results of a jaw augmentation procedure will gradually become visible as swelling reduces. Improvements in jaw definition can be seen after 1-2 weeks but it can take up to three months to see the final results. These results are permanent.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a world-renowned plastic, craniofacial, and facial gender-affirming surgeon. Anyone who is considering jaw augmentation in San Francisco is encouraged to call The Deschamps-Braly Clinic or fill out an online contact form to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward their ideal appearance.
Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery, orthognathic (jaw) surgery, and craniofacial surgery for adults and children. He is also one of the world’s foremost leaders and innovators in facial gender confirmation surgery.
