Orthognathic surgeon recommended silicone cheek implants during surgery. Is it a good treatment & do pros outweigh cons? (Photo)

Question

-Currently have Class III underbite -Had braces and reverse headgear growing up -Preparing for orthognathic surgery (one surgeon recommends moving lower jaw back, the other recommends lower jaw back/upper forward/chin/cheek implants) -Would like to know if silicone cheek implants should be inserted at Surgeon's recommendation, or if not necessary (or going to cause complications as stated in other reviews)

Tracy Li Cheung, DDS, MS · Answer

Based on your photo, the surgical movements I would recommend would be a 60-70% maxillary advancement and a 30-40% mandibular set back. I think the main issue is midface deficiency, so by bringing the upper jaw forward, your cheeks should look more full. The lower jaw is somewhat forward, but not as backward as the upper jaw.

Paul Serrano, DDS · Answer

The final 'plan' for jaw surgery involves many considerations. The art and science of this procedure can vary but these days the upper jaw advancement seems to make more sense for the future airway. Combining two jaws allows less lower jaw set back which be more precise in the final out come.  Many surgeons are comfortable doing the cheeks at the same time and many feel that it increases risk of infection. In my experience a follow up procedure is less risky AND can be better assessed for size etc.

Orthognathic surgeon recommended silicone cheek implants during surgery. Is it a good treatment & do pros outweigh cons? (Photo)

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