How to Address a Long Face and Jawline Concerns in Cosmetic Surgery

Facial contouring

I have a long face, and my lower jaw is slightly more prominent when I bite down, but it's not very severe.
I'm quite satisfied with my facial features, but I feel that my face shape is a flaw.
My long face looks unattractive in photos, and I envy how cute others look with ponytails, while mine looks odd.
What would be the best way to improve this?

Hou Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/17

Dr. Jiang Baicong reply Plastic Surgery

The face is long, and during occlusion, the mandible is more prominent, although it's not very severe.
I'm unsure about the occlusion.
Typically, when the mandible is more prominent, the dental occlusion often corresponds to Class III malocclusion.
At this point, it's important to first assess the occlusal condition.
It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon or a plastic surgeon for an initial evaluation, including X-ray examinations, to determine which part is more prominent or if there is a slight angular deviation.
We need to ascertain whether the issue lies with the mandible or if the maxilla is positioned too far back.
Understanding the occlusal relationship is essential before suggesting the next steps for treatment.

Reply Date: 2004/03/17

More Info

When addressing concerns about a long face and jawline in cosmetic surgery, it's essential to consider both the aesthetic goals and the potential risks associated with surgical procedures. A long face, often characterized by a prominent jawline or chin, can be a source of self-consciousness for many individuals. However, it's crucial to approach any surgical intervention with a clear understanding of the options available, the associated risks, and the expected outcomes.

Understanding Facial Aesthetics
Facial aesthetics are subjective and can vary significantly from person to person. A long face may not necessarily be considered unattractive, but if it causes distress or dissatisfaction, cosmetic surgery can be an option. The perception of beauty often includes a balance of facial proportions, and many people seek to achieve a more oval or heart-shaped face, which is often deemed more aesthetically pleasing.

Surgical Options
1. Jaw Reduction Surgery: This procedure can help create a more balanced facial appearance by reducing the size of the jaw. It involves reshaping the jawbone to achieve a more harmonious proportion with the rest of the face. This surgery can be particularly effective for individuals with a prominent jawline.

2. Chin Surgery (Genioplasty): If the chin is contributing to the long appearance of the face, chin surgery can either reduce the chin size or reposition it to create a more balanced profile. This can help in achieving a more oval face shape.

3. Facial Fillers: For those who may not want to undergo surgery, dermal fillers can be used to add volume to certain areas of the face, such as the cheeks or temples, which can create the illusion of a shorter face. This non-surgical option is less invasive and has a shorter recovery time.

4. Botox: In some cases, Botox can be used to relax the muscles in the jaw, which may help in reducing the prominence of the jawline, especially if the individual has a strong masseter muscle.

Risks and Considerations
Every surgical procedure carries inherent risks, including infection, scarring, and dissatisfaction with the results. It is crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial procedures. They can provide a thorough evaluation of your facial structure and discuss the best options tailored to your specific needs.

- Recovery Time: Surgical options typically require a recovery period during which swelling and bruising may occur. It's essential to plan for this downtime and follow post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing.

- Realistic Expectations: It's vital to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. While cosmetic procedures can enhance appearance, they may not completely change how you feel about yourself. Psychological readiness is just as important as physical readiness.

Non-Surgical Alternatives
If you are hesitant about surgery, consider non-surgical options such as makeup techniques to contour the face, hairstyles that add volume to the sides of the face, or even consulting with a dermatologist for skin treatments that can improve overall facial aesthetics.

Conclusion
Addressing concerns about a long face and jawline through cosmetic surgery is a personal decision that should be made with careful consideration. Consulting with a qualified surgeon can provide you with the necessary information to make an informed choice. Remember, beauty is subjective, and the most important aspect is how you feel about yourself. Embrace your unique features while exploring options that can help you achieve the look you desire.

Similar Q&A

Can Jaw Surgery Shorten My Long and Wide Jawline?

My mandible is very long and wide, but my teeth are arranged very neatly, so it doesn't seem to be a dental issue. Is it possible to shorten it?

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
It shouldn't be a major issue to shorten it; the suitability and aesthetic appeal are also important considerations. Additionally, whether a cost of over a hundred thousand is too burdensome should be taken into account. Consulting with a plastic surgeon who specializes in c...

Can Jaw Surgery Fix My Square Face and TMJ Issues?

My face is square-shaped, and I want to undergo jawline contouring. However, I have a persistent issue that I haven't been able to resolve. I previously experienced an accident that caused some problems with my temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It often makes a clicking sound w...

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
For issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), it is advisable to consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a craniofacial specialist. It is possible to address these issues together, but an evaluation is necessary to determine the appropriate course of action. The c...

Can Jaw Surgery Correct Protruding Outer Eye Bone? Risks and Costs Explained

The outer edge of the bone at the lateral canthus of one eye is more prominent. Is it possible to perform a bone contouring surgery through an intraoral approach? What is the risk of injuring the facial nerve? How much budget should be prepared for the medical expenses after the ...

Dr. Luo Qihua reply Plastic Surgery
Prominent cheekbones can be surgically addressed through an intraoral approach; however, achieving perfect symmetry with the opposite side involves considerations related to the paranasal sinuses, which require a thorough evaluation. The risk of injuring the facial nerve is relat...

Understanding Craniofacial Surgery: Risks and Considerations for Facial Aesthetics

This surgery is for individuals with less than severe facial shape issues. If one insists on undergoing this type of surgery, is the risk very high? Is this surgery a combination of orthognathic surgery and zygomatic bone surgery? The photos suggest that there may not be a need f...

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
1. Orthognathic surgery is typically performed on patients with cleft lip and palate or congenital facial deformities. 2. All surgeries carry certain risks, and the risks are higher for individuals with poor health or multiple medical conditions. 3. An oval face is generally ...