Everything you need to know about jaw surgery in Korea

Jaw surgery in Korea stands out as a transformative procedure that not only enhances facial aesthetics but also improves functional issues. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of jaw surgery in Korea, exploring the types of surgeries available, their benefits, and the best clinics to consider for this life-changing procedure. Read on to learn more about what jaw surgery is, the cost, and the best clinics in Korea.
   

What Is Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, encompasses a range of procedures designed to correct irregularities of the jaw bones, improve facial appearance, and ensure that teeth meet correctly and function properly. In Korea, jaw surgery has been refined to not only address functional issues but also to meet the high aesthetic standards that are part of the culture's focus on beauty.
 
Jaw issues might arise from congenital anomalies, growth disturbances, trauma, or developmental discrepancies in the jaws and teeth. The decision to undergo jaw surgery is often made in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to ensure that the teeth, jaws, and facial muscles will function together harmoniously. Here's an in-depth look at why jaw surgery is done:
 

1. Correcting Bite Problems: The most common reason for jaw surgery is to rectify malocclusion or improper bite. An overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite can make biting, chewing, and speaking difficult or painful. Orthodontics alone sometimes cannot correct these issues if they are due to skeletal discrepancies rather than merely the alignment of the teeth. 
2. Improving Facial Symmetry: Jaw discrepancies can lead to an asymmetrical appearance of the face. This could manifest as a protruding jaw, receding chin, or facial imbalance from one side to the other. Surgery can help achieve better facial harmony and aesthetics. 
3. TMJ Disorders: Temporomandibular Joint Disorders can result from or lead to jaw discrepancies. These disorders can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty in moving the jaw. Surgery can help alleviate these symptoms by correcting the underlying structural problem. 
4. Repairing Congenital or Acquired Conditions: Conditions present at birth, such as cleft palate, or conditions acquired through injury or disease that affect the jaw's structure, often require surgery for repair. 
5. Preventing Further Wear and Tear: Misaligned jaws can result in uneven wear on the teeth, leading to dental problems, pain, and loss of tooth structure. Surgical realignment can prevent these outcomes. 
6. Facilitating Biting, Chewing, and Swallowing: Jaw misalignments can make everyday activities such as eating and speaking challenging. Surgery can enhance these functions, significantly improving the quality of life. 
7. Addressing Breathing Problems: Some jaw disorders can lead to difficulties with breathing, including obstructive sleep apnea. By adjusting the jaw's position, surgery can open up the airway, improving breathing during sleep and reducing snoring. 
8. Enhanced Self-esteem and Confidence: The aesthetic improvements from jaw surgery can lead to increased self-esteem and confidence for many patients, significantly impacting their social interactions and overall satisfaction with their appearance.

The timing of jaw surgery is crucial; it's typically performed after the jaw has fully developed. For most individuals, this means the late teens or early twenties, but this can vary. 

The process of jaw surgery typically involves incisions inside the mouth to minimize visible scarring. Surgeons may perform osteotomies, where the jawbones are cut, moved, and realigned to a more optimal position. The bones are then secured with screws and plates. The benefits of jaw surgery are manifold, including improved chewing, speech, and breathing, as well as enhanced facial symmetry and balance.
 

Why Get Jaw Surgery in Korea

Korea has become a hub for medical tourism, especially for those seeking cosmetic and reconstructive jaw surgery. The country's plastic surgeons are highly skilled and often lead in innovative surgical techniques. Korean clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and surgeons use advanced methods such as 3D modeling to predict outcomes and ensure precision.

Moreover, the Korean approach to jaw surgery often includes a holistic view of facial aesthetics. Surgeons consider the harmony and balance of the entire face, not just the jawline. This attention to detail results in a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Additionally, the high volume of procedures performed in Korea has led to a wealth of experience and expertise among Korean surgeons, making it a prime destination for jaw surgery.
 

Have any questions about the best jaw surgery clinics in Korea or about jaw surgery procedures? Feel free to reach out to us on WhatsApp with any question you might have! Click here to contact us on WhatsApp

 

What Does Jaw Surgery in Korea Involve

For foreign visitors, undergoing jaw surgery in Korea involves a comprehensive process that starts with a detailed consultation, often available online. Clinics may request photographs or offer virtual consultations to assess the patient's condition before arrival. Once in Korea, patients undergo a thorough physical examination, and clinics use advanced imaging techniques to plan the surgery.

The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia and can take several hours, depending on the complexity. Postoperative care in Korea is meticulous, with hospital stays and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and recovery. Clinics often provide services in multiple languages to cater to international patients, making the experience as smooth as possible.
 

How Long does Jaw Surgery Take in Korea

The duration of jaw surgery in Korea can vary depending on the specific procedure and the individual's case. Typically, the surgery lasts between one to three hours. After the operation, patients are usually required to stay in the clinic for two to three days for initial recovery. Full rehabilitation and the return to normal activities can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, with most swelling and discomfort subsiding within the first month.
 

Best Jaw Surgery Clinics in Korea

Korea boasts numerous clinics that specialize in jaw surgery, each offering a unique blend of expertise, technology, and patient care. These clinics are renowned for their high success rates and their focus on achieving results that are both functionally sound and aesthetically pleasing.

Not sure which clinic to contact? Why not use a local medical tourism service that will help you get in contact with the right clinic. Find out more about ShinMedical here. 
    

1. THE PLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is a premier clinic for jaw surgery in Korea, known for its tailored approach to square jaw surgery. The clinic's surgeons are adept at performing curved mandibular angle resection, ensuring natural-looking results that complement the individual's facial features.

With over a decade of experience, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery has a reputation for safety and excellence, utilizing the latest medical equipment and adhering to strict safety protocols.

Patients can expect comprehensive post-surgery care, including tissue regeneration treatments and personalized self-care guidance. The clinic's commitment to research and patient satisfaction makes it an ideal choice for those seeking transformative jaw surgery.

Benefits of getting jaw surgery at THE PLUS include:
 

• Tailored Surgical Approach: Curved mandibular angle resection and three-dimensional bone reductions are tailored to fit the individual’s specific jaw shape, providing a natural-looking outcome and avoiding an artificial appearance. 
• Highly Skilled Medical Staff: Continuous research and development ensure that medical staff are highly skilled in performing advanced surgical techniques.
• State-of-the-art Medical Equipment: The clinic is equipped with the latest medical technology to ensure precision during surgeries and a higher standard of care.

Find more info about The PLUS Clinic on their official website. 
     

2. Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out with its specialized Jaw Reduction Surgery, pioneered by Dr. Seo Beom-shin. The clinic's diagonal resection technique, from under the ear to the chin tip, is designed to create a small, slim face without harsh boundary lines.

Made Young emphasizes the importance of periosteum repositioning post-surgery to prevent skin sagging and ensure proper blood supply for tissue healing. With a focus on impactful results and meticulous bone contouring, Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic is a top destination for patients looking to achieve a refined jawline.

Periosteum repositioning is a distinctive technique employed by Made Young in their bone contouring and jaw reduction surgeries, showcasing their advanced approach to facial cosmetic procedures. Understanding the benefit of this method requires a basic knowledge of the periosteum's role in surgery and tissue health. 

The periosteum is a dense, thin layer of connective tissue that envelops the bones, except at the surfaces of the joints. Its two layers, the outer "fibrous layer" and inner "cambium layer" (or osteogenic layer), play crucial roles in providing nourishment, aiding in repair, and serving as an attachment point for muscles and ligaments. Its rich blood supply is vital for bone health and regeneration.

One potential aftermath of jaw reduction surgery without appropriate handling of the periosteum could be the sagging of soft tissues. This occurs because the structural support provided by the periosteum to the overlying tissues can be compromised, leading to an undesirable aesthetic outcome. Made Young's approach of repositioning the periosteum upwards ensures that the soft tissue remains properly supported and adheres to the newly contoured underlying bone structure. As such, patients enjoy a more youthful and lifted appearance post-surgery without the worry of soft tissue sag, which can significantly affect the aesthetic outcome.

Find more info about Made Young on their official website. 
   

Jaw Surgery Aftercare

Aftercare following jaw surgery is crucial for a successful outcome. Korean clinics provide detailed post-operative instructions, which typically include a special diet, ice pack application, mouth gargling, and moderate exercise. Patients are advised to avoid alcohol, smoking, and strenuous activities that could hinder the healing process. Regular check-ups are scheduled to monitor recovery, and clinics may offer additional treatments such as lymph drainage injections or low-intensity laser therapy to promote tissue regeneration.
   

Cost of Jaw Surgery in Korea

The cost of jaw surgery in Korea is competitive, especially when compared to prices in the USA. Generally, the price range for jaw surgery in Korea is between USD $11,000 to USD $14,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen surgical method. This is often more affordable than the cost in the USA, where prices can be significantly higher. The lower cost in Korea, combined with the high level of expertise and care, makes it an attractive option for many patients considering jaw surgery.
 

Alternatives to Jaw Surgery

For those who may not be ready for surgery or are looking for less invasive options, there are alternatives to consider. Injectable dermal fillers can be used for non-surgical correction of the lower third of the face, providing temporary improvements in jawline contour. Other non-surgical treatments, such as ultrasound or radiofrequency-based therapies, can also offer subtle enhancements. However, for permanent and significant changes, surgical options are typically recommended.