Is esthetic surgery necessary for a flat-looking maxilla?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

I will be offering advice shortly. My expertise lies in the field of maxillofacial surgery.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Based on your photos (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity), I would not suggest cheek implants or Botox fillers. One viable option that a surgeon might agree upon is maxillary augmentation and facial implants, particularly if you perceive your maxilla to appear somewhat flat.

However, I suggest that a skeletal class one malocclusion is generally ideal because it ensures proper alignment of your bite in the long run. Orthognathic surgery, a procedure to correct jaw and facial irregularities, does not always yield positive outcomes by default; it requires careful consideration by the surgeon. Confidence in the anticipated results is crucial before expecting any noticeable changes. Suppose you are inclined towards continuing with rapid maxillary expansion (RME), a procedure that widens the upper jaw to address issues related to a narrow palate or misaligned teeth or orthodontic (braces) treatment for dental bite correction or addressing narrow arches, I suggest you discuss this option with your healthcare provider, rather than opting solely for surgery.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

When viewed from the side, it is slightly recessed (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). Your observation about the upper jaw looking somewhat flat from the nasal angle is accurate. However, the important aspect to consider is the dental bite. Suppose your occlusion and chewing are accurate, and you encounter no issues with biting food using both anterior and posterior teeth – characteristic of a good skeletal class one malocclusion. In that case, there may not be a compelling aesthetic necessity for correction. It is essential not to compromise functionality for the sake of aesthetics.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

This is quite common. Maxillary hypoplasia, or a recessed maxilla, is often linked to genetic factors. Correcting skeletal malocclusions can be challenging, usually through orthognathic surgery (jaw correction surgeries). Fortunately, being a skeletal class 1 is advantageous for both biting functionality and aesthetics compared to class 2 or class 3 patients. Your recessed maxilla may be genetically influenced. If it does not bother you aesthetically and your bite is proper, allow you to chew on both sides and ensure your lips close correctly when you smile. Henceforth, surgical correction might not be needed.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

If the letter from your in-clinic surgeon is clear about the absence of skeletal discrepancies in your facial contour and jaw or dental occlusion, then there is no need for concern. Since your biting on both sides is perfect, there is little reason to worry about aesthetics. Functionality should never be compromised for mild aesthetic concerns. It is common for the maxillofacial or mid-face recession to have a genetic component based on your family's inheritance. There is no classifiable skeletal anomaly or mid-face error in your case. As you have rightly observed, the appearance of being flat or recessed from the side is likely due to the correct accommodation of your teeth in the upper jaw for a proper bite. There is nothing to worry about. If you still want to explore alternative options, please let me know. It is essential to address your concerns from both aesthetic and functional perspectives.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

From the perspective of the nasal septum and considering your ongoing rapid maxillary expansion (RME), it is a dental procedure used to widen the upper jaw for narrow arches, which has been underway for a month. These subtle changes in mid-face contour are common when there is a deviated septum. It is crucial to prioritize your RME at the moment. Opting for procedures like maxillary augmentation, facial implants, or injectables like Botox or dermal fillers might not be advisable. The report from your surgeon (attachments removed to protect patient identity) indicates that your functions and bite are perfectly fine. It is important to understand that facial asymmetry exists to some extent in almost everyone. However, orthognathic surgery (jaw correcting surgeries) is typically recommended for conditions like skeletal malocclusions (class 2 and 3), mid-face deformities, lip incompetence, deep bite, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems, clicking issues, or maxillary sinus problems. If you do not fall into these categories, maxillofacial surgeons will not suggest or attempt orthognathic surgery to alter your normal bite.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.