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Cosmetic Jaw surgery - Plastic surgeon or Maxillofacial?

Obviously each surgeon is individual! But I'm having trouble deciding where to begin my consultations. I have an overbite, right TMJ clicking, mild lower asymmetry (canted jaw when smiling), mid-face deficiency, vertical growth (long face) and obstructive sleep apnea. However I would very much like cosmetic improvement too! Should I look for plastic surgeons that have experience with orthognathics, oral/maxillofacial surgeons, or both? Thank you!

Doctor Answers 2

August 19th, 2016

Cosmetic jaw surgery--Plastic or Maxillofacial

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it's not as important which type of surgeon you choose as the experience of that surgeon at doing the procedure that you need. There are many plastic surgeons and maxillofacial surgeons that perform orthognathic surgery. There  are also many who do not. It is critically important that you ascertain just how much experience you were surgeon has.  Ask to see previous case examples and speak to a patient of his or hers that has undergone the procedure. It is also of critical importance to choose a board-certified surgeon.  Having experience in both plastic surgery and maxillofacial surgery, in my opinion, maxillofacial surgeons perform these procedures more routinely than plastic surgeons. Best of luck!


Greensboro Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

April 27th, 2016

Jaw Surgery

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If functional issues are significant and a concern, address that first. Their correction should also be of aesthetic benefit. One who addresses these issues with orthognathic procedures on a regular basis would seem most appropriate. Later, residual aesthetic concerns can be addressed. This might be better in the realm of a plastic surgeon.

Learn more: http://www.dryaremchuk.com/procedures/mandible/jaw

Michael J. Yaremchuk, MD

Michael J. Yaremchuk, MD
Boston Plastic Surgeon
3.8 out of 5 stars 22 reviews

*Treatment results may vary

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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.