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While desired by men, a squared-off chin and jawline are often unwanted by women. Unfortunately, women of Asian descent tend to have broader, stronger jawlines than women of other ethnicities. Therefore, jaw reduction surgery is common among many Asian women.
A disproportionate jaw or protruding jawline is something that many Asian women (and some men) want to reduce with surgery. It could be that you don’t like the size of your jaw, or you feel that it is not aesthetically pleasing.
Some women feel like their jaw is too masculine and would like it shaved to reveal something more slender, which is popular in facial feminization surgeries. This type of facial contouring is also called V-line surgery, and there are some aspects of jaw reduction recovery that you should be aware of.
What Does Jawline Reduction Entail?
There are different types of jaw reduction surgeries. One will entail shaving the outer edges of the jaw bone from inside the mouth. This will leave no external scarring. The other will necessitate shaving the bottom borders of the bone from behind the ear, and, with this method, there will be a small scar behind the crease of each ear.
There is also a non-surgical option that involves BOTOX® Cosmetic or Myobloc™ injections. This option will result in mild swelling and redness, but that should subside quickly.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
Jaw reduction surgery can take one to two hours and will require you to have general anesthesia. After the procedure, you will be able to leave and recover at home. This can be a long process, which you need to be aware of and prepare for.
What Should I Expect From Jaw Reduction Recovery?
Initially, you will be very swollen and red in the area, peaking on the second or third day. There will be some pain and discomfort, which you will be given pain medication for.
After about one week, the swelling will begin to subside, but most of the swelling can take six weeks to leave, sometimes even longer.
The most obvious swelling should be gone after about three months, and you will begin to see your new jawline. However, it is advised that the swelling can take up to six months to be gone completely.
The length of time it takes to recover will depend on each person and the extent of the procedure.
What Else Do I Need To Know?
- You will need to wear a compression bandage around your chin and jawline to ensure that the area heals correctly.
- Most patients will experience some numbness, but this is temporary.
- You will be able to return to work ten days after the surgery and can resume most of your usual activities, apart from very strenuous, high-intensity training or running.
Interested in Learning More?
To find out more about jaw reduction surgery and request a consultation, contact Dr. Charles S. Lee from Asian Cosmetic Surgery at (310) 271-5954.
