Jaw reduction surgery in Seattle is typically performed to improve facial aesthetics. A wide, square lower jaw is generally considered to be a masculine trait, and many patients elect to undergo this procedure to achieve a more feminine appeal.

Dr. James M. Ridgway, MD, FACS, is a Seattle and Bellevue plastic surgeon who specializes in the face. He provides premier cosmetic, restorative, and reconstructive facial procedures with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to surgical excellence.

Who is a Good Candidate for Jaw Reduction Surgery?

An enlarged mandible (jawbone) can result from congenital or developmental causes. While a square lower jaw may be considered a desirable feature in men, among women, it can detract from the feminine appearance of the face. Some women feel that a large, square jaw is out of proportion with the rest of the face. They may elect to have jaw reduction surgery to achieve a more symmetrical, aesthetically pleasing, feminine appearance.

While the typical male jaw has a square appearance, the typical female jaw curves gently from the earlobe to the chin. Jaw reduction surgery is often performed as part of a facial feminization surgery (FFS) plan. Jaw shaving or jaw contouring helps soften the jaw line, and this procedure alone can make a masculine face appear dramatically more feminine.

How Jaw Reduction Surgery is Performed

The first step is a consultation with Dr. Ridgway, who will discuss your treatment goals and perform a careful evaluation of your unique facial structure and anatomy. The surgical procedure will be performed under general anesthetic, and you will probably need to stay in the hospital overnight.

After anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort and safety, Dr. Ridgway will make an incision inside the mouth, between the gums and the cheek, next to the jaw. He will then use surgical tools, such as a micro-saw, to reduce the jawline for a slimmer, more feminine, curved, and rounded appearance. When the procedure is complete, he will close the surgical site with self-dissolving sutures.

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What to Expect After Jaw Reduction Surgery

It is important to keep the surgical area clean with the mouth-washing solution prescribed for use after the surgery. Dr. Ridgway will advise you to eat a soft diet during the first 2 to 3 days. In most cases, patients can return to work and resume normal activities in approximately one week after this procedure.

The incision stitches will dissolve in approximately two weeks after surgery. There will be no visible scarring, as all incisions are made inside the mouth.

You may experience temporary numbness after the surgery. You can expect some swelling, which will be maximized in two to three days. It is a good idea to ice your jaws and keep your head elevated to help minimize swelling and bruising.

The obvious swelling will subside over a period of six weeks to three months, but it could take up to six months for the swelling to subside completely. Maximum results from the procedure can be seen when the swelling is completely gone.

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Premier Washington Facial Surgeon

Dr. James M. Ridgway, MD, FACS is an award-winning, double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial surgery and non-surgical treatments. He has extensive training and experience, and he is committed to surgical excellence and to achieving beautiful results for his patients.

Dr. Ridgway also believes that the bond between patient and doctor is key to providing the highest possible level of care, and he strives to cultivate a relationship with every patient. If you are considering jaw reduction surgery in Bellevue, contact our office for a consultation with a highly skilled facial plastic surgeon who genuinely cares about his patients.

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Schedule A Consultation

If you are ready to refresh and rejuvenate your look today, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the best plastic surgeons Seattle has to offer: Dr. James M. Ridgway. During your private consultation Dr. Ridgway will carefully evaluate your face and the subtle imperfections that concern you most before providing you with a personalized blend of Bellevue cosmetic surgery procedures that will help you achieve your ideal facial appearance.

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