WHAT CAN A JAW AUGMENTATION ACHIEVE?

• Brings balance and proportion to the face
• More defined jaw line
• Counteracts the effects of age-related bone absorption
• Gives greater facial definition and contouring
• Corrects deformities form facial trauma

IS THERE AN ALTERNATIVE TO A JAW IMPLANT AUGMENTATION?

There are other surgical and non-surgical procedures that can also be performed on the chin and jaw area, including dermal fillers. Surgical alternatives to implants can also include fat transfer, where some fat is harvested from another part of the body and transferred to the area needing augmentation. A combination of chin and jaw angle implants can create a more complete jawline makeover. Dr Cotrufo can discuss the treatment(s) which may be best suited to your individual requirements, as he is an expert in chin and jaw surgery.

WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE YOUR JAW SURGERY CONSULTATION?

Establishing good communication with your surgeon will help you to feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible throughout the surgery process. This will begin to be put in place during your personal consultation when you will spend time with Dr Cotrufo discussing your individual circumstances.

DURING YOUR JAW SURGERY CONSULTATION, YOU WILL:

• Discuss the reasons behind you seeking jaw augmentation
• Learn more about chin surgery or implants and the procedure involved
• Discuss the care you will receive before, during and after surgery
• Undergo a full health evaluation
• Have an assessment of the chin/jaw area
• Be able to ask questions and talk through what other options may be available
• Learn about timescales and costs

WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE YOUR JAW IMPLANT PROCEDURE?

As your surgery approaches, you may be asked to make some small lifestyle changes and asked to avoid particular activities and medications.

This may include:

• Taking medical tests including blood tests
• Stopping smoking
• Adjusting or taking certain medications
• Avoiding aspirin, herbal supplements and anti-inflammatory drugs
• Refraining from drinking alcohol
• Avoiding sun overexposure, particular to the face
• Committing to not making stringent changes to your diet

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If a general anaesthetic is to be used during surgery, you will need to follow fasting instructions given by the surgeon.

THE JAW IMPLANT PROCEDURE

• The incision is made inside the mouth and jaw implants are positioned in a natural position
• The incision is closed using absorbable sutures

AFTER YOUR JAW IMPLANT SURGERY

Once you have been released from the clinic you may want a friend or relative to drive you home.

After that:

• You should take it easy the first week after surgery and book time off work
• You should walk around as soon as you feel able
• On the second day after surgery you should be able to shower with mild warm water
• Your head will need to be elevated and kept as still as possible for the first few days after the procedure
• Bruising to the neck and chin area should start to subside in around 7-14 days
• The sutures will be absorbed naturally by your mouth
• All strenuous activity including housework and lifting should be avoided for around one month
• You will need to keep your mouth clean with a non-alcoholic mouth wash and should avoid eating hot and spicy foods and items that contain high levels of bacteria
• Steam baths, saunas and sunbathing should be avoided for several months
• You will attend regular aftercare appointments with Dr Cortufo, which are included in the cost of your surgery

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT JAW SURGERY?

Dr Cotrufo is a plastic surgery and reconstructive microsurgery expert who specialises in surgery procedures for the face and neck area, including chin and jaw surgery. If you would like any further information about the procedure, your individual suitability for surgery or the service and aftercare you can expect to receive with Dr Cotrufo, please call 0207 873 2330 to organise a personal consultation.