Table of contents

• Double Jaw Surgery: A Detailed Medical Overview
• Best Clinics in Korea for Protruding Jaw
• The Patient Journey: Getting Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea
• Costs and Value: Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea vs. Other Countries
• Life After Double Jaw Surgery: Patient Experiences and Outcomes
• Conclusion
• References

A "protruding jaw," medically known as prognathism, occurs when the lower jaw (mandible) extends farther forward than the upper jaw (maxilla), leading to an improper bite and facial misalignment. The name is rooted in Greek, translating directly to "forward jaw." This condition can arise from true mandibular prognathism, where the lower jaw grows excessively, or from pseudo-prognathism (maxillary hypoplasia), where the upper jaw is underdeveloped, making the lower jaw appear more prominent. Some individuals may even have a mix of both issues. Identifying the specific skeletal problem requires expert diagnostic evaluation with detailed imaging and facial analysis. This step is crucial because it ensures that surgical treatment targets the right bone(s) rather than just addressing surface symptoms.

Common Medical Terms and Pseudonyms

Several terms are used to describe a protruding lower jaw:

• Prognathism: Describes any jaw that juts forward beyond the normal facial plane.
• Mandibular Prognathism: Specifies that the lower jaw is protruding.
• Class III Malocclusion: Orthodontically, this means the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth, creating an "underbite."
• Underbite: A widely recognized term for this appearance.
• Extended Chin: A non-medical phrase for the look of a prominent lower chin or jaw.

Causes and Contributing Factors

Prognathism commonly results from multiple overlapping causes.

• Genetics: Family history plays a major part. Inherited conditions or genetic syndromes like Crouzon syndrome or basal cell nevus syndrome frequently include prognathism.
• Developmental Issues: The jaw shape can develop abnormally either from birth or due to conditions affecting bone growth, such as gigantism or acromegaly.
• Environmental Factors: Especially in pseudo-prognathism, factors like poor dental extractions, missing teeth, or a cleft palate can lead to an apparent protruding jaw.

Impacts and Symptoms (Functional and Aesthetic)

A protruding jaw affects both daily function and appearance. While cosmetic concerns often lead patients to seek help, the condition is considered a disorder mostly when key functions like chewing, speech, and social interactions are disrupted.

Functional Issues:

• Malocclusion: An incorrect bite that can trigger other problems.
• Eating Difficulties: Impaired biting and chewing, possibly causing dietary concerns.
• Speech Issues: Difficulty pronouncing certain sounds or a lisp.
• Jaw Pain or Discomfort: Misalignment can cause persistent pain and even teeth grinding.
• Breathing Issues: Sometimes links to obstructive sleep apnea.
• Tooth Wear: Misaligned bites wear teeth down unevenly, risking dental complications.

Aesthetic Concerns:

• Unbalanced Appearance: The lower jaw may look overly large, affecting facial harmony.
• Aggressive Expression: A pronounced jawline could be perceived as harsh.
• Receding Upper Jaw: Adds to midface imbalances.

Comprehensive treatment aims to restore both natural function and harmony, not just improve looks.

Double Jaw Surgery: A Detailed Medical Overview

What is Double Jaw Surgery (Bimaxillary Osteotomy)?

Double jaw surgery, or Bimaxillary Osteotomy, is a specialized orthognathic surgery designed to reposition both the upper (maxilla) and lower (mandible) jaws at the same time. This comprehensive approach is reserved for complex situations—including severe underbites, overbites, or facial asymmetry—where correcting just one jaw cannot achieve lasting, functional, and aesthetic improvements. The procedure’s three-dimensional precision makes it best suited for challenging jaw discrepancies.

Purpose of the Procedure (Functional and Aesthetic Corrections)

The surgery aims to address both health and appearance:

Functional Corrections:

• Correcting malocclusion, including severe bite problems.
• Restoring efficient chewing, biting, and swallowing.
• Improving speech and eliminating impediments.
• Reducing jaw pain and TMJ-related discomfort.
• Enhancing breathing and relieving sleep apnea.
• Protecting teeth from uneven wear.

Aesthetic Corrections:

• Achieving optimal facial symmetry.
• Balancing the facial profile for natural appearance.
• Enabling comfortable lip closure.
• Refining chin proportions, sometimes with additional genioplasty.

Key Surgical Techniques Involved

Performed under general anesthesia in a hospital, the procedure usually lasts three to four hours or longer for complex cases.

• Incisions: Made almost exclusively inside the mouth to avoid visible scarring.
• Upper Jaw Correction (Le Fort I Osteotomy): The maxilla is cut, separated, then repositioned forward, backward, up, down, shortened, lengthened, or rotated for best fit and facial harmony. Sometimes bone above molars is shaved away to correct an open bite.
• Lower Jaw Correction:
  • Sagittal Split Osteotomy (BSSO): Diagonal cuts in the lower jaw allow for backward or forward movement, followed by rigid fixation with titanium screws and plates, often minimizing the need for the jaw to be wired shut afterward.
  • Intra-oral Vertical Ramus Osteotomy (IVRO): Vertical jaw cuts for backward repositioning.
• Fixation: Repositioned jaws are fixed internally with titanium plates and screws for stability.
• Intermediate Splint: A custom device ensures precise upper jaw placement before moving the lower jaw.

Advanced tools, including 3D modeling and virtual planning, ensure predictable outcomes and high safety—key reasons clinics in places like South Korea see high success rates.

Best Clinics in Korea for Protruding Jaw

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

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Korea’s leading clinic for protruding jaw, unparalleled team of expert surgeons, advanced facilities spanning four floors, global reputation, active in medical education and research, patient satisfaction and safety prioritized	Advanced facial contouring by board-certified surgeons, harmonious results balancing function and beauty, routine live surgeries, contributions to medical literature
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Leading in facial and anti-aging procedures, prestigious Gangnam location, highly skilled doctors (avg. 15+ years’ experience), patient-centered care, full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, awards and official recognitions, CCTV transparency, robust aftercare system	Personalized jaw correction plans by experts, comprehensive safety and emergency response, minimally invasive certified techniques, systematic post-procedure support
Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic	Convenient location, advanced aesthetic procedures, rich clinical data, highly personalized and effective jaw correction, expertise in comprehensive facial contouring, multidisciplinary team, focus on safety and long-term outcomes	V Line surgery, genioplasty, tailored facial harmonization, diverse surgical experience for customized results

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Gangnam, Seoul, stands out as Korea’s leading clinic for the treatment of protruding jaw due to its unparalleled team of expert surgeons, extensive array of advanced procedures, and commitment to both safety and natural, harmonious results. Under the guidance of renowned professionals such as Dr. Kim, a board-certified plastic surgeon and authority in facial contouring and rhinoplasty, and Dr. Jeong, the President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons and global conference speaker, the clinic continually sets industry standards in facial aesthetic surgery. Their deep belief in balancing facial function and beauty is matched by their dedication to medical education and cutting-edge research, with both surgeons regularly teaching and publishing internationally recognized work. The multidisciplinary team, including Dr. Lee with her surgical expertise honed at top Korean hospitals, ensures comprehensive care across all specialties. THEPLUS Plastic Surgery spans four state-of-the-art floors, offering everything from initial consultation to post-surgery skincare, all within a facility where patient satisfaction, safety, and personalized attention are at the forefront. Their global reputation is strengthened by active academic engagement, routine live surgeries, and significant contributions to medical literature, making THEPLUS the clinic of choice for those seeking the highest standards in protruding jaw correction and overall facial harmony.

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

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic stands as a leading destination for advanced facial and anti-aging procedures in Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to patient safety, innovation, and genuine dedication, Made Young merges decades of expertise with the latest surgical techniques to deliver natural, balanced results. This premium clinic is particularly esteemed for treating conditions such as a protruding jaw, offering patient-centered care that prioritizes safety, transparency, and comfort at every step. Every aspect, from diagnosis to aftercare, is handled by top-tier professionals with a keen eye for both medical excellence and aesthetic harmony, making Made Young the ultimate choice for those seeking facial correction and rejuvenation.

Key reasons why Made Young is the best clinic for Protruding Jaw:

• Verified Medical Team & Expertise

  • Procedures are performed by highly skilled doctors, each with an average of over 15 years’ clinical experience.
  • Direct consultations and thorough diagnoses are exclusively conducted by the medical team, ensuring personalized and precise treatment plans.
  • Doctors are recognized experts, bringing a depth of knowledge in face contouring and corrective jaw surgery.

• Comprehensive Safety System

  • On-site, full-time board-certified anesthesiologists provide continuous, one-on-one patient monitoring for maximum safety.
  • A robust Cross-Check System ensures rapid and accurate emergency response by multiple anesthesiology experts.
  • Full CCTV coverage during procedures guarantees transparency and reassures patient trust.

• Thorough Aftercare System

  • A dedicated aftercare center offers systematic, meticulous post-procedure support to optimize healing and results.
  • Ongoing guidance and monitoring minimize complications and promote the best surgical outcomes.

• Awards & Official Recognitions

  • Recipient of the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place distinction.
  • Recognized as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.
  • Officially certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society for safety and procedure quality.

By placing patient safety and tailored results at the forefront, while upholding outstanding medical qualifications and aftercare, Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic offers unparalleled expertise for anyone seeking correction or improvement of a protruding jaw.

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

Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic

Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic, located conveniently at Sinnonhyeon Station in Seoul, distinguishes itself as the premier choice for protruding jaw correction in Korea. Renowned for its advanced aesthetic procedures, Nana leverages extensive clinical data and a wealth of diverse surgical experience, enabling the clinic to deliver highly personalized, effective jaw correction solutions. Their expertise in comprehensive facial contouring – including V Line surgery and genioplasty – ensures not only improved jaw alignment but also harmonious, balanced facial features tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Backed by a multidisciplinary team and a commitment to safety and long-term results, Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the ideal destination for those seeking the very best in protruding jaw correction and facial aesthetics in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: Nana Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

The Patient Journey: Getting Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea

Choosing double jaw surgery involves a multi-phase process over several years, with orthodontists and oral surgeons working closely together. Success depends on patient commitment to every phase.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Everything begins with consultations between the patient, orthodontist, and surgeon. International patients can often start with virtual consultations (submitted photos or video calls) to determine initial suitability. Upon arrival in Korea, further in-depth diagnostics—advanced X-rays, 3D CT scans, plaster molds of teeth, and facial analysis—are performed. 3D modeling and virtual designs help create precise, personalized surgical plans.

Pre-Surgical Orthodontic Treatment

Patients wear braces or aligners for 12 to 18 months to align teeth and undo compensations, so the arches fit together perfectly after surgery.

Preparing for Surgery

Preparation includes:

• Full disclosure of medical history.
• Avoiding smoking or alcohol (especially near the surgery date).
• Transitioning to a liquid diet pre-surgery.
• Removing jewelry and nail products the day of, and dressing comfortably for hospital stay.

The Surgical Procedure

Under general anesthesia, oral incisions are made for jaw access. The upper jaw is corrected via Le Fort I Osteotomy and the lower with either BSSO or IVRO, as planned. Jaws are secured with titanium plates and screws. If needed, bone grafts may be used to aid healing. After surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery unit.

Post-Surgical Recovery and Hospital Stay

Patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 4 days. Swelling peaks after 48 hours then decreases. Medication, cold packs, and later warm packs help manage swelling and pain.

Diet is liquid for weeks, progressing slowly to soft food. Lying with the head elevated and walking gently aid recovery, while strenuous activity, smoking, and alcohol are off-limits for weeks.

Essential Aftercare and Follow-up Appointments

Care includes oral hygiene with special rinses, ongoing orthodontic work for bite refinement, and regular surgical follow-ups. Top Korean clinics often offer advanced therapies like lymph drainage and laser treatments to speed healing. Most initial jaw healing takes about six weeks, with full recovery stretching to several months. International patients should stay in Korea for 2 to 4 weeks for early follow-ups.

Potential Risks and Recovery Challenges

Recovery is often more difficult than patients expect. Potential risks include:

• Nerve trauma (temporary or permanent numbness).
• Changes in hearing.
• Jaw relapse (rare with modern fixation).
• Surgical complications such as bone fractures or bleeding.
• Exacerbation of TMJ problems.
• Other side effects like constipation and drooling.
• The need for strong caretaker support in the first weeks.

Costs and Value: Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea vs. Other Countries

Average Cost of Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea

Typical prices are $11,000 to $25,000 USD, averaging around $12,833 USD. A 10% deposit is customary for booking procedures.

What's Typically Included in the Cost

• Pre-operative consultations.
• Hospitalization (2-4 days).
• General anesthesia.
• Medications for pain and infection.
• Follow-up appointments.
• Compression bandage.

Factors Influencing the Cost

Final costs vary by:

• Surgeon’s expertise.
• Clinic location and reputation.
• Case complexity.
• Combined procedures (like genioplasty).
• Orthodontic treatment (usually a separate cost).
• Accommodation and travel for foreigners.

Table 1: Cost Comparison of Double Jaw Surgery Across Key Medical Tourism Destinations

Destination	Procedure Type	Cost (USD) Range / Average	Notes
South Korea	Double Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic)	$7,000 - $25,330 (Avg: $12,833)	Advanced expertise, competitive pricing
USA	Orthognathic Surgery (Double Jaw)	$18,000 - $56,000	Much higher compared to other countries
Mexico	Double Jaw Orthognathic Surgery	$9,000 - $13,300	Cost-effective option
Turkey	Double Jaw Surgery	$2,200 - $15,000	Rapidly growing destination, lower prices
Thailand	Orthognathic Surgery	$4,200 - $14,799	Popular medical tourism location
United Kingdom	Orthognathic Surgery (Double Jaw)	$19,200 - $51,000	Higher end pricing
Australia	Bi-maxillary Surgery	$6,880 - $9,632	Subject to exchange rate fluctuations
Europe	Orthognathic Surgery	$8,800 - $18,700	Mid-range pricing

Note: Prices are estimates subject to case details and exchange rates.

Why South Korea is a Competitive Choice for Medical Tourists

South Korea offers world-class care, with prices often 30-60% lower than in the US or Europe, yet equal or superior in quality. High procedure volume brings experience, while technology like 3D planning ensures safety and predictability. Korean clinics also provide comprehensive international support, from virtual consults to accommodation help.

Life After Double Jaw Surgery: Patient Experiences and Outcomes

Double jaw surgery profoundly improves both function and appearance, usually changing lives for the better.

Addressing Functional Issues

Patients commonly experience:

• Dramatically better chewing and biting ability.
• Improved speech clarity, boosting confidence.
• Enhanced breathing, often alleviating sleep apnea.
• Relief from jaw pain and TMJ issues.

Achieving Aesthetic Transformations

The surgery rebalances facial features:

• Achieving facial symmetry.
• Creating more natural and appealing profiles.
• Enabling comfortable lip closure.
• Refining chin contours, sometimes with added procedures.

Psychological Benefits

• Greater self-esteem and confidence.
• Enhanced quality of life—patients often wish they’d pursued surgery sooner.
• More comfort in social and professional settings.

Common Patient Experiences During Recovery

• Swelling and numbness, improving slowly.
• Liquid then soft-food diet, which can be tough.
• Temporary drooling and occasionally constipation.
• A high need for supportive care and motivation during this period.

Overall Success Rates and Long-Term Outlook

Success rates are high—typically 93.9% to 95%—with most patients reporting better function and life satisfaction. Continued orthodontic care post-surgery is important for maintaining results.

Conclusion

A protruding jaw, or prognathism, is a complex issue that affects both function and facial appearance, often requiring more than cosmetic improvement. Double jaw surgery (bimaxillary osteotomy) offers a reliable, comprehensive solution that brings lasting functional, aesthetic, and psychological benefits. South Korea stands out for its expertise, cost-effectiveness, advanced technology, and robust patient support, making it a top choice for medical tourists. For those considering this life-changing procedure, understanding the commitment involved and the broad spectrum of benefits is key to making the best decision for their health and well-being.

References

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