Jaw Reduction

See Dr. Newen’s Before and After Jaw Reduction Photos

Many people with a strong jaw line, or square jaw, desire for it to be reduced so the face shape is more oval. An oval face shape is considered to be more feminine, whereas a square jaw is considered to be more masculine. Jaw reduction involves shaving down the outer portion of the jaw to narrow the face.

If you are considering jaw reduction surgery, we want you to be thoroughly informed about the procedure. Below is some helpful information. A personal consultation with Dr. Newen is the best way to obtain the additional information you will need.

Am I a good candidate for jaw reduction surgery?

Jaw reduction is performed on adults of all ages. Jaw reduction can reshape the face, making it more narrow and oval. You may be a good candidate for jaw reduction surgery if you have a strong or square jaw and you desire to have the angle reduced.

Your personal consultation

During the consultation you will be asked about the results you expect to achieve from jaw reduction surgery. This will help Dr. Newen understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved.

How will Dr. Newen evaluate me for jaw reduction surgery?

You should be prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries, any breathing problems you may have, and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information. Dr. Newen will also recommend for you to get a CT Scan of the head, this will allow him to plan and map out your surgery so he can give you the best results possible.

How is the jaw reduction surgery performed?

Two small incisions are made inside the mouth and two along the jaw line where it will be well hidden to access the bony prominence. The angle of the jaw is shaved down to create a more pleasing contour. The incisions are then closed with dissolvable sutures.

How do I prepare for my jaw reduction surgery?

You will be provided with complete information about what to do before your jaw reduction surgery, and our staff will check up on you and make sure you are ready for your procedure. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well ahead of the surgery date. You will also be asked not to take certain medications which increase the risk of bleeding. Your jaw reduction surgery will be performed on an outpatient basis, please be sure you have someone to drive you home and take care of you for the next 24 hours.

Jaw Reduction Recovery – How will I look and feel initially?

It is important to realize that each individual’s recovery time will be different. You will be asked to restrict your activities and relax for a few days. Elevating your head when you sleep will help to minimize swelling and bruising. Generally, the greatest amount of swelling occurs 24 to 48 hours after surgery, but it may take several weeks before all puffiness is resolved. After surgery, there may be a temporary feeling of numbness, pain, swelling, and bruising.

The types of symptoms experienced and the duration of the symptoms vary in patients. Most patients return to work or school after 1-2 weeks.

Understanding risks

Significant complications from the jaw reduction are very rare. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and risks. The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis during your consultation with Dr. Newen.

Your surgical experience

Our goal is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible. If you’re a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. You will be provided with complete preoperative and postoperative instructions.

Jaw Reduction surgery is performed at Huntington Surgery Center, our outpatient surgery facility located within The Image Center. Please be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

Non-Surgical Jaw Reduction

A non-surgical alternative to jaw reduction is to inject BOTOX® Cosmetic (botulinum toxin type A) into the jaw muscles. This weakens the jaw muscle so that it shrinks, resulting in a narrower face. Results can be seen within a few weeks, and patients return every 4-5 months for maintenance injections.

For more information

For more information on jaw reduction surgery or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (714) 230-2430.