Table of contents

• Jaw Surgery Overview
• Best Clinics in Korea for Jaw Surgery In
• Jaw Surgery in Korea
• Alternatives to Jaw Surgery
• Conclusion

Are you considering a life-changing procedure that not only enhances your facial harmony but also improves jaw function? Discover why jaw surgery in Korea is emerging as the top choice for those seeking both aesthetic and functional transformations, combining cutting-edge technology with renowned surgical expertise.

Jaw Surgery Overview

Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a corrective procedure for jaw and teeth misalignments. It addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns. The surgery is typically recommended when orthodontics alone cannot correct the problem. It involves a collaborative approach between an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon. The procedure is safe when performed by experienced surgeons, although risks like bleeding, infection, and nerve injury exist. Post-surgery, patients may face swelling, pain, and dietary restrictions. Virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3D CT scanning are modern techniques used for optimal results.

Here are the main types of jaw surgery:

Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy)

In an upper jaw surgery, the surgeon targets the upper jaw to correct issues such as:

• A significantly receded or protruding upper jaw
• Crossbite
• Disproportionate tooth visibility
• Open bite
• Midfacial hypoplasia

During the procedure, cuts are made in the bone above the teeth, allowing the top jaw, including the roof of the mouth and upper teeth, to move as one unit. The jaw and upper teeth can be moved forward, backward, up, or down, and are often planned with computer assistance. For open bite cases, excess bone above the molars is removed or shaved away. The realigned jaw is then secured with plates and screws.

Lower Jaw Surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy)

Lower jaw surgery involves modifying the lower jaw to address:

• A receding lower jaw
• A protruding lower jaw

The procedure includes cuts behind the molars and lengthwise down the bone, enabling the front section of the jaw to move forward or backward as needed. The adjustment is stabilized using plates and screws during the healing process.

Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

A genioplasty focuses on correcting a small or receded chin, which is often seen with a severely receded lower jaw. The procedure involves:

• Cutting a segment of the chin bone from the front of the jaw
• Moving the segment forward
• Securing it with plates and screws in its new placement

These surgeries can be performed individually or combined, depending on the patient's specific needs and goals. The aim is to achieve a functional, healthy jaw alignment and an improved facial appearance.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, often requiring a hospital stay of 2-4 days. Incisions are usually inside the mouth to avoid facial scars. The jawbones are cut, moved, and secured with plates and screws. Sometimes, extra bone is added from other body parts. Upper jaw surgery corrects issues like crossbites and open bites, while lower jaw surgery addresses receding or protruding jaws. Chin surgery can correct a small chin. After surgery, initial healing takes about six weeks, with complete healing up to 12 weeks. Orthodontic work continues, potentially for several years, to ensure proper alignment.

1. Jaw Surgery Procedure

The jaw surgery procedure begins with pre-surgical orthodontic treatment, often lasting 12-18 months, to align the teeth. Planning involves X-rays, pictures, and models of the teeth. During surgery, the patient is under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes cuts in the jawbones, moves them into the desired position, and secures them with surgical hardware. The surgery can take 2 to 5 hours, and hospitalization ranges from 1 to 4 days. Post-surgery, patients follow a strict diet and oral hygiene regimen and may experience swelling and discomfort.

2. Who Is Jaw Surgery for?

• Individuals with jaw misalignment issues that cannot be corrected by orthodontics alone.
• Patients with difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing.
• Those with chronic jaw pain or TMJ disorders.
• People with obstructive sleep apnea caused by jaw problems.
• Individuals with facial asymmetry due to jaw discrepancies.
• Patients with a receding chin or protruding jaw.
• Those with a desire to improve facial aesthetics.

3. Jaw Surgery Aftercare

After jaw surgery, patients must adhere to a specific diet and oral hygiene routine. A liquid diet is recommended for the first few weeks, gradually progressing to soft foods. Swelling and discomfort are managed with medication and ice applications. Oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection. Patients may experience changes in sensation and limited jaw movement, which improve over time. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and remove any surgical hardware, like splints or stitches.

4. Jaw Surgery Recovery Period

The initial jaw healing period is about six weeks, with complete healing taking up to 12 weeks. Patients may return to work or school activities several weeks post-surgery, but full recovery can take up to a year. It is possible for additional orthodontic treatment to continue after surgery to refine the bite. Recovery experiences vary, and patients should consult their healthcare provider before resuming exercise or strenuous activities.

Best Clinics in Korea for Jaw Surgery In

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for jaw surgery in:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Premier destination for jaw surgery in Korea, located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, Seoul. Renowned surgeons including Dr. Kim (facial contouring/3D implant research) and Dr. Jeong (President of Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons). Multidisciplinary team of board-certified surgeons. Four specialized floors for comprehensive care. Commitment to academic leadership and latest advances.	Annual symposiums, advanced facial harmony techniques, 3D implant research, personalized surgical plans, comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, pioneering blend of aesthetics and functional restoration.
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Located in Gangnam, Seoul. Expertise in jaw surgery and facial contouring. Dr. Suh Bum-sin specializes in smooth, natural jaw reduction. All doctors have 15+ years of experience. 1:1 patient monitoring, board-certified anesthesiologists, CCTV transparency, aftercare center. Multiple awards and certifications.	Periosteum Repositioning (bone membrane elevation to prevent sagging), simultaneous jaw angle & width reduction, tailored aesthetic solutions, advanced safety and aftercare protocols.
DM Plastic Surgery	Top-tier clinic with 10–20+ year veteran board-certified plastic surgeons (Yonsei University alumni). Scientific, aesthetic, and individualized treatment. Personalized 1:1 consultations. Strong in complex facial contouring and jaw surgeries. Multidisciplinary approach and high satisfaction.	Complex jaw reduction, recessed chin and bimaxillary protrusion surgeries, scientifically driven diagnosis, advanced aesthetic analysis, full-spectrum care, association-level surgical techniques.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery in the vibrant Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, Seoul, stands out as the premier destination for jaw surgery in Korea due to its unmatched blend of surgical expertise, academic leadership, and a holistic approach to facial harmony. Led by globally respected surgeons such as Dr. Kim, an award-winning authority in facial contouring and 3D implant research, and Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons and a pioneer in combining aesthetics with functional restoration, the clinic demonstrates a rare mastery in both the art and science of facial surgery. Their commitment to ongoing education—hosting annual symposiums, sharing knowledge globally, and emphasizing the latest advances in surgical techniques—ensures that every patient benefits from the most sophisticated and safe procedures available. Supported by a multidisciplinary team of board-certified surgeons, including Dr. Lee, who brings her academic rigor and dedication to natural, lasting results, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery guarantees a personalized surgical plan and superior outcomes. Their state-of-the-art facility, spanning four specialized floors, provides comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, reflecting a dedication to patient safety, satisfaction, and well-being that distinguishes THE PLUS as the foremost clinic for jaw surgery and facial contouring in Korea.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, situated in Seoul’s renowned Gangnam district, is a premier destination for those seeking expert jaw surgery and advanced facial contouring. Led by Dr. Suh Bum-sin, whose specialized surgical technique skillfully achieves a smooth, natural reduction from the ear to the tip of the chin, Made Young stands out for its ability to simultaneously refine both the jaw angle and width. The innovative approach includes Periosteum Repositioning, a technique that elevates the bone membrane post-surgery, effectively preventing soft tissue sagging and ensuring a sharply defined, slimmer jawline without the risk of tissue drooping. This combination of artistry and advanced technique ensures that each patient attains balanced, beautiful results tailored to their individual facial structure.

At Made Young, patient safety and satisfaction are at the forefront of every procedure. The clinic's medical team consists only of highly skilled doctors, each with over 15 years of specialized experience and a commitment to in-depth, personalized care. Their comprehensive approach includes board-certified anesthesiologists on site, a 1:1 monitoring system for every patient, and full procedural transparency with CCTV coverage. With a dedicated aftercare center and an impressive list of awards—such as the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and industry-recognized certifications—Made Young has established itself as a trusted leader in cosmetic surgery. This unwavering dedication to safety, excellence, and patient well-being makes Made Young an outstanding choice for jaw surgery in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

DM Plastic Surgery

DM Plastic Surgery is a premier medical clinic in Korea, renowned for its excellence in jaw surgery and a wide spectrum of advanced cosmetic procedures. The clinic is helmed by two board-certified plastic surgeons—alumni of the prestigious Yonsei University Hospital, with leadership backgrounds at Gangnam Severance Hospital of Yonsei University. DM Plastic Surgery distinguishes itself through its highly experienced team of specialists, each with a minimum of 10 to 20 years of focused expertise, who provide scientific, aesthetic, and personalized treatment plans for every patient. From in-depth 1:1 consultations to innovative surgical techniques, DM Plastic Surgery prioritizes individualized care—ensuring optimal safety, harmony, and transformative results in jaw and facial contouring surgery. Their commitment to excellence and ongoing medical leadership makes DM Plastic Surgery one of the best destinations for jaw surgery in Korea.

Why DM Plastic Surgery is the Best Clinic for Jaw Surgery in Korea:

• Surgeries are personally performed by board-certified plastic surgeons with over a decade—often two—of specialized experience.
• The clinic’s surgical team consists exclusively of plastic surgery specialists, not general practitioners.
• Surgeons are leading alumni and former department heads from esteemed institutions, such as Yonsei University Hospital and Gangnam Severance Hospital.
• Each patient receives a scientifically driven, highly individualized diagnosis and surgical plan—supported by advanced aesthetic analysis.
• Personalized 1:1 consultations ensure expectations are well understood and outcomes are tailored to the patient’s needs.
• Particularly strong in complex facial contouring and jaw surgeries, including square jaw reduction, recessed chin correction, and bimaxillary protrusion surgery.
• Active engagement with the Association of Plastic Surgery Medical Doctors, guaranteeing the use of cutting-edge and trusted surgical methods.
• A multidisciplinary approach covers the full spectrum of aesthetic needs—from initial consultation to postoperative care—under one expert roof.
• Consistent track record of natural, harmonious results and high patient satisfaction, positioning DM Plastic Surgery as a model of excellence in the field.

Find more about this clinic here: DM Plastic Surgery Website

Jaw Surgery in Korea

Korea is renowned for its advanced medical technology and highly skilled surgeons, making it a special destination for jaw surgery. Korean clinics offer state-of-the-art facilities and employ innovative techniques like 3D imaging and VSP for precise surgical outcomes. The benefits of undergoing jaw surgery in Korea include access to expert surgeons, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive post-operative care. Additionally, Korea's focus on aesthetic results ensures that patients not only function better but also enjoy improved facial harmony.

Alternatives to Jaw Surgery

For those considering alternatives to jaw surgery, options include orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign, orthodontic camouflage techniques, dental restorations, and facial fillers. These non-surgical methods may be preferred due to the lower risks and invasiveness. However, they may not address significant skeletal discrepancies or functional issues of the jaw.

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩5,500,000	$4000
High Price	₩8,800,000	$6400

Exchange rate as of 2025-05-22: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

Conclusion

Jaw surgery in Korea offers a blend of advanced medical expertise, aesthetic finesse, and cost-effectiveness. Patients considering this procedure should weigh the benefits against the risks and recovery time. Consulting with reputable clinics and surgeons is crucial for a successful outcome.