Can Jaw Surgery Fix My Square Face and TMJ Issues? - Plastic Surgery

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Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, can indeed address both aesthetic concerns like a square face and functional issues such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Your situation, where you have a square face shape and TMJ symptoms, is not uncommon, and many individuals seek surgical options to improve both appearance and function.


Understanding Square Face Shape and TMJ Disorders
A square face shape is typically characterized by a strong jawline and prominent cheekbones, which can be due to the underlying bone structure. In your case, the square shape may be exacerbated by the TMJ issues you mentioned, which can lead to muscle tension and asymmetry in the facial structure. TMJ disorders can manifest as clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, pain, and difficulty in chewing or speaking, which can significantly impact your quality of life.


The Role of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery can reshape the jawbone to create a more balanced facial appearance. For individuals with a square face, procedures may involve reducing the size of the jaw or repositioning it to achieve a more oval or heart-shaped appearance. This can be done through techniques such as mandibular reduction or contouring.

In your case, addressing the TMJ issues is crucial before proceeding with cosmetic jaw surgery. If the TMJ disorder is not managed, the surgery may not yield the desired results, and you could continue to experience discomfort or dysfunction post-operatively.


Treatment Sequence
1. Consultation with Specialists: It is essential to consult with both an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a TMJ specialist. They can evaluate your specific condition and determine the best course of action. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be necessary to assess the extent of the TMJ issues.

2. TMJ Treatment: Depending on the severity of your TMJ disorder, treatment options may include physical therapy, splint therapy, or even minimally invasive procedures to alleviate symptoms. In some cases, if conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical intervention on the TMJ may be warranted.

3. Combined Surgery: If your TMJ issues are resolved or manageable, jaw surgery can be performed simultaneously with any necessary TMJ surgery. This approach can minimize recovery time and ensure that both functional and aesthetic goals are achieved.


Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, nerve damage, and complications related to anesthesia. It’s important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and ensure that you have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes.


Conclusion
In summary, jaw surgery can effectively address both your square face shape and TMJ issues, but it is crucial to prioritize the management of your TMJ disorder first. A thorough evaluation by specialists will help you determine the best treatment plan tailored to your needs. By addressing both concerns, you can achieve a more harmonious facial appearance while alleviating the discomfort associated with TMJ dysfunction. Always ensure that you are well-informed and comfortable with your treatment plan before proceeding with any surgical intervention.