Jaw implant surgery

Jaw implant surgery is a primarily cosmetic procedure where an implant is placed along the jawline to make it more defined, restructured, or noticeable. Implants may be placed along the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both. This method of jawline augmentation helps improve facial balance and shape, creating a more harmonious appearance.

Not to be confused with jaw joint replacement surgery, a complex and extensive treatment for severe joint damage, jaw implant surgery is a minimally invasive procedure typically, but not always, used for cosmetic enhancement of the jawline.

Penn Medicine’s oral and maxillofacial surgeons are leaders in facial reconstructive procedures, including cosmetic surgery for the jaw.

People typically seek jaw implant surgery to create a more defined jaw angle, improve overall facial symmetry and shape, or build up a weak or receding chin. Jaw implant surgery may be performed along with other cosmetic facial procedures, such as facelifts, neck lifts, neck liposuction (fat removal), rhinoplasty (to change the nose’s shape), and cheek or chin implants.

For people with significant overbites or jaw misalignments, corrective orthognathic surgery, which involves repositioning the jaw, may be the appropriate procedure. Jaw implant surgery is sometimes performed in combination with orthognathic surgery.

On the day of surgery, you’ll be placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation to remain pain-free and comfortable. Your surgeon will review imaging scans of your jaw to determine the best size and placement of the implant.  

During the procedure: 

• A small incision is made, usually inside the mouth along the lower gumline or under the chin, to access the jawbone.  
• The surgeon carefully positions the implant along the jawbone to enhance the jawline’s shape and structure.  
• The implant is secured with tiny screws or sutures if needed to prevent movement. 
• The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures if made inside the mouth or standard sutures if made under the chin. 

After surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area and monitored as your anesthesia wears off. Most people are able to return home the same day.  

In the first few days after jaw implant surgery, you can expect swelling and mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication and ice packs. You may be advised to follow a soft or liquid diet for a short time to avoid straining the jaw.

Most swelling starts to subside within the first week, though you may still experience some tightness or soreness. You may be instructed to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks to protect your healing tissues, though many people are cleared to resume light activities and return to work in about a week.

Like any procedure, jaw implant surgery has some possible risks, such as:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Implant moving out of place
• Numbness or changes in feeling
• Reactions to anesthesia

Be sure to follow your care team’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to help ensure the best outcome.

Penn Medicine’s oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer well-rounded expertise in facial aesthetics, jaw function, and surgical precision. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your desired appearance while addressing any structural issues and prioritizing your oral health.

We’re known internationally for our innovative research and educational excellence in oral and maxillofacial medicine. While we aim for minimally invasive procedures whenever possible, we have the experience and knowledge to recognize and treat even the most challenging and complex conditions using surgical techniques that are right for you.