Table of contents

• Understanding Underbite Malocclusion: A Foundational Overview
• Double Jaw Surgery: A Detailed Medical and Procedural Guide
• Best Clinics in Korea for Underbite Malocclusion
• The Patient's Journey: Navigating the Medical Tourism Process in South Korea
• Financial Landscape: Cost of Double Jaw Surgery for a Medical Tourist
• Voices from the Journey: Patient Experiences and Testimonials
• Conclusion
• References

Underbite malocclusion is more than just a cosmetic issue—it's a challenging dentofacial deformity that can significantly impact day-to-day function, causing problems with chewing, jaw pain, sleep apnea, and premature tooth wear. For cases stemming from jawbone discrepancies, the most effective and lasting treatment is orthognathic surgery, also known as bimaxillary osteotomy or double jaw surgery. This surgical approach realigns both the upper and lower jaws to restore balance and function.

Patients considering this procedure embark on a multi-phase journey, starting with orthodontic preparation, undergoing the surgery itself, and completing an extended recovery. South Korea has become a popular choice for double jaw surgery, renowned for its cutting-edge technology, skilled surgeons, and integrated focus on function and aesthetics—all at a lower cost than in Western countries, but with a price that reflects skilled, aesthetically conscious care. A successful experience relies on careful planning, patient commitment, and choosing a clinic that specializes in medically necessary orthognathic surgery rather than cosmetic-only procedures. For those well-prepared, the transformation can bring life-changing health and self-confidence benefits.

Understanding Underbite Malocclusion: A Foundational Overview

What is an Underbite?

An underbite, or Class III malocclusion, is a condition where the lower front teeth jut out past the upper front teeth when the jaw is closed. Often called a protruding or oversized lower jaw, it's the opposite of the more common overbite. In medical terminology, this may be described as mandibular prognathism, highlighting a protrusion specifically of the lower jaw.

Here's a breakdown of common terminology you might encounter:

Table 1.1: Terminology & Pseudonyms for Underbite Malocclusion

Terminology Used	Clinical Context & Notes
Underbite	Common and most widely understood term.
Prognathism	General medical term for a protruding jaw.
Mandibular Prognathism	Specific for a protruding lower jaw.
Class III Malocclusion	Orthodontic classification for this issue.
Pseudo-Class III Malocclusion	Functional bite caused by mandibular shift, not bones.

Distinguishing between true skeletal Class III malocclusion and pseudo-Class III malocclusion is essential for determining the right treatment. True underbites stem from jawbone size or position issues, typically requiring surgery, whereas pseudo-Class III is usually a functional shift that orthodontics alone may address. An accurate diagnosis by a specialist is key to mapping an effective treatment plan.

Signs, Symptoms, and Underlying Causes

Underbites present with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. In strong cases, you might notice a visibly protruding jaw, discomfort when eating or speaking, difficulty closing the mouth, frequent mouth injuries, and even impaired breathing. Long-term, they can cause TMJ disorders—with headaches, earaches, and facial pain—increase risks for tooth decay and gum disease, accelerate dental wear, and worsen sleep apnea due to airway constriction.

Genetics play the biggest role in underbite development, passing down jaw discrepancies across generations. Less often, persistent childhood behaviors like thumb-sucking, extended bottle-feeding, injuries, or tumors can contribute. It’s a common misconception that underbite malocclusion is only cosmetic; its functional health impacts are profound, affecting eating, breathing, and oral health. Addressing it is an investment in overall wellness, not just appearance.

Double Jaw Surgery: A Detailed Medical and Procedural Guide

Defining Double Jaw Surgery

For severe, skeletal underbites, double jaw surgery is the gold standard. Referred to as orthognathic surgery, bimaxillary osteotomy, or maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), the procedure repositions both upper (maxilla) and lower (mandible) jaws for optimal alignment. Sometimes, a genioplasty (chin surgery) is added for further aesthetic refinement, resulting in what’s called "triple jaw surgery."

The Surgical Procedure Explained

Embarking on double jaw surgery demands time, patience, and teamwork with your care providers. The preparatory stage alone can last 12–18 months, involving orthodontics like braces or aligners to ensure teeth line up perfectly after surgery. Advanced CT scans and virtual surgical planning (VSP) guide surgeons in mapping jaw movements before the operation and fabricating custom guides and titanium plates.

During the procedure—performed under general anesthesia—incisions are made inside the mouth to avoid facial scars. Surgeons reposition the upper jaw as needed, and the lower jaw is cut behind the molars and realigned. Plates and screws hold the bones in place permanently. The surgery takes about five hours and demands a hands-on partnership with your specialist throughout the preparation, operation, and healing.

Surgical Benefits and Expected Outcomes

The primary benefit of double jaw surgery is restoring proper function—making it easier to chew, bite, and speak. It can correct speech impediments and breathing issues (notably improving sleep apnea). Functional alignment also relieves headaches and TMJ pain, and preserves dental health.

Aesthetically, surgery produces balanced, harmonious facial proportions, significantly boosting self-esteem. The positive psychological impact is profound, often providing relief from years of discomfort or embarrassment related to appearance and function.

Associated Risks and Long-Term Considerations

While double jaw surgery is safe when done by an experienced surgeon, it’s not without risks. Face pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, and numbness (especially around the lips and chin) are common after surgery; some numbness may linger for months or, rarely, become permanent. Excessive drooling, nasal stuffiness, and constipation from painkillers or a liquid diet are also typical.

Possible complications include nerve trauma, jawbone relapse, fractures, serious bleeding, or worsening of TMJ problems. A minority of patients may need a second corrective surgery. The emotional and logistical challenges—like needing help with daily tasks and the mental strain of lengthy recovery—are real, but most patients find the improvements far outweigh the hardships along the way.

Best Clinics in Korea for Underbite Malocclusion

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for underbite malocclusion:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	World-renowned experts, comprehensive functional-aesthetic approach, commitment to education and innovation, state-of-the-art facility, safety and experience, personalized care, integrated multidisciplinary services	Surgical correction of underbite malocclusion, 3D implants, advanced facial contouring, 3D imaging and simulation technologies, post-surgical rehabilitation
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Leading clinic for underbite malocclusion, award-winning, direct personalized consultations, high safety standards, full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, dedicated aftercare center, transparent environment with CCTV	Advanced facial contouring, jaw correction surgery, systematic post-procedure support, non-invasive rejuvenation
View Plastic Surgery	Premier clinic for underbite malocclusion in Korea, aesthetic excellence, patient safety, multidisciplinary approach, personalized treatment plans, top craniofacial/maxillofacial/plastic surgery specialists, focus on natural balanced results	Double jaw surgery, facial contouring, advanced jaw alignment correction, both surgical and non-surgical methods

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, situated in the vibrant Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, Seoul, stands out as one of Korea’s premier centers for advanced cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Home to a team of distinguished, internationally recognized experts, THE PLUS specializes in facial contouring procedures, including the surgical correction of underbite malocclusion. The clinic is led by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, and Dr. Lee, each bringing unparalleled expertise and a commitment to cutting-edge research, education, and patient-focused care. Their philosophy centers on achieving natural, harmonious results by combining scientific precision with an artistic eye, elevating the standard of care for patients seeking facial balance and function.

Why THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is the top choice for Underbite Malocclusion correction:

• World-Renowned Experts: Dr. Kim is a board-certified surgeon recognized for his groundbreaking research on 3D implants and advanced facial contouring techniques, ensuring precise correction and balanced results tailored to each patient.
• Comprehensive Functional-Aesthetic Approach: Dr. Jeong, as President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, emphasizes the importance of integrating both aesthetics and function, ensuring that underbite corrections not only enhance appearance but also restore proper jaw function.
• Commitment to Education and Innovation: Both Dr. Kim and Dr. Jeong lead annual training sessions and present at global conferences, contributing to the advancement of facial bone surgery and sharing their expertise with peers worldwide.
• State-of-the-Art Facility: The clinic spans four purpose-designed floors that facilitate every stage of the patient journey, from consultation to surgery to post-operative care, ensuring convenience, privacy, and comfort.
• Safety and Experience: THE PLUS boasts a surgical team with decades of combined experience, active participation in academic research, and adherence to international safety protocols for optimal outcomes.
• Personalized Care: Every treatment plan is customized, including 3D imaging and simulation technologies, to address each patient’s unique facial structure and desired goals.
• Integrated Multidisciplinary Services: Patients have access to a full spectrum of services, including advanced skincare and post-surgical rehabilitation, maximizing results and recovery.

With their extensive expertise in facial contouring and correction of jaw misalignment, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is widely regarded as a leader in the field, trusted by both patients and medical professionals for delivering safe, natural, and transformative outcomes for underbite malocclusion.

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

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in Seoul’s renowned Gangnam district, is a leading destination for patients seeking specialized care for underbite malocclusion and facial harmony procedures. Widely recognized for its excellence in facial and anti-aging surgery, Made Young combines the expertise of highly skilled doctors with over 15 years of clinical experience on average. Each patient receives direct, personalized consultations from the experienced medical team, ensuring expert diagnosis and the safest, most effective treatment plans. The clinic’s commitment to patient safety is underscored by a comprehensive system that includes full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, one-on-one dedicated monitoring, and transparent procedure environments with full CCTV coverage.

Beyond precision surgery, Made Young distinguishes itself through meticulous aftercare, with a dedicated center that delivers systematic post-procedure support for optimal healing and results. The clinic has earned multiple awards, including the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and the Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place accolade, and is proudly recognized by leading surgical societies. Whether addressing underbite malocclusion through advanced facial contouring and jaw correction techniques or providing non-invasive rejuvenation, Made Young offers a holistic, patient-centered experience aimed at restoring both appearance and confidence.

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

View Plastic Surgery

View Plastic Surgery stands out as the premier clinic for treating underbite malocclusion in Korea due to its unwavering commitment to aesthetic excellence, patient safety, and comprehensive care. Renowned for its expertise in double jaw surgery and facial contouring, View Plastic Surgery offers advanced solutions for complex cases like underbite malocclusion, which require precise correction of jaw alignment as well as careful attention to facial harmony. The clinic’s multidisciplinary approach ensures each patient receives a personalized treatment plan that addresses both functional and aesthetic needs, whether through surgical or non-surgical methods. With a team comprised of top specialists in craniofacial, maxillofacial, and plastic surgery, patients benefit from the latest innovations and safest protocols in the field. Above all, View Plastic Surgery’s philosophy centers on achieving natural, balanced results while prioritizing patient safety and satisfaction, making it the top choice for anyone seeking underbite correction in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: View Plastic Surgery Website

The Patient's Journey: Navigating the Medical Tourism Process in South Korea

Why South Korea?

South Korea is a medical tourism hotspot, drawing international patients for both cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgeries. Its clinics are famous for blending functional correction with aesthetic artistry and have teams of surgeons and orthodontists working together from consultation through recovery to ensure optimal, natural-looking results.

The Process of Getting Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea

Here's what the medical tourism journey typically looks like:

• Initial Research & Online Consultation: Identify clinics, consult remotely with photos and records, and receive estimated costs and proposed plans (2–4 weeks).
• Visa & Travel Arrangements: Secure a visa (C-3 for short stays, G-1 medical visa for longer or complex cases), and book flights/lodging (4–6 weeks).
• On-site Evaluation & Surgery: In-person assessment, confirm the surgical plan, complete final tests, and undergo surgery (about five hours).
• Recovery Period in Korea: Stay in-country for 2–4 weeks for initial healing, follow-up visits, dietary guidance, and care instructions.
• Discharge & Return Home: After clearance, return with medical records; consider virtual follow-ups for continued care.

Table 3.1: Estimated Medical Tourism Timeline for Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea

Phase of Journey	Duration	Key Activities
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics	12-18 months	Align teeth with braces or aligners
Initial Remote Consultation	2-4 weeks	Clinic research, online consults
Travel Planning	4-6 weeks	Visa, travel, accommodation
On-Site Stay in Korea	2-4 weeks	Final evaluation, surgery, early recovery
Initial Healing	6 weeks	Bone healing, liquid-to-soft diet
Full Recovery	12 weeks-1 year	Complete healing, ongoing orthodontic work

Key Considerations for Clinic Selection

Choosing a South Korean clinic requires careful research. Look for KHIDI-registered clinics and board-certified surgeons—JCI accreditation is a bonus for international safety standards. Crucially, distinguish between medically necessary orthognathic surgery and V-line jaw reduction, which is cosmetic and less costly but unsuitable for true underbite correction. Orthognathic surgery, addressing skeletal and functional issues, ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 USD, compared to $3,784–$6,054 for cosmetic jaw reduction. Always choose a clinic with substantive experience in functional jaw surgeries.

Financial Landscape: Cost of Double Jaw Surgery for a Medical Tourist

South Korean Costs in Detail

In South Korea, double jaw surgery generally costs between $15,000 and $25,000 USD (with some sources quoting $7,000 up to $25,330, reflecting case complexity, surgeon expertise, and clinic quality). This usually includes surgery, anesthesia, hospitalization, and some follow-up care, but patients should budget for travel, extended stays, and additional treatments or medications outside the package.

Global Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. Other Countries

Comparative pricing puts South Korea in a favorable light for value and expertise. In the United States, the procedure costs $20,000 to $55,000+, Canada and the United Kingdom typically charge $18,000 to $50,000 for private care. Mexico ($8,000–$12,000), Turkey ($8,000–$15,000), and Thailand ($3,000–$10,000) offer lower prices. Though not the cheapest option, South Korea’s costs reflect a premium on high skill, advanced tech, and a comprehensive approach to both function and aesthetics.

Table 4.1: Double Jaw Surgery Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. Global Destinations

Country/Region	Estimated Cost for Double Jaw Surgery (USD)
South Korea	$15,000 - $25,000
United States	$20,000 - $55,000+
Canada	$25,000 - $50,000
United Kingdom	$18,000 - $30,000
Mexico	$8,000 - $12,000
Turkey	$8,000 - $15,000
Thailand	$3,000 - $10,000

Estimates only; prices depend on individual cases and clinic.

Voices from the Journey: Patient Experiences and Testimonials

Acknowledging the Emotional and Physical Toll

First-hand patient accounts reveal the demands of double jaw surgery recovery. The process is described as long and challenging—patients experience unexpected side effects like drooling, constipation, and "pins and needles" as numbness wears off. Routine tasks become difficult, highlighting the importance of strong support systems during the initial recovery stages. The emotional journey can be taxing, requiring resilience to manage anxiety and extended healing.

Life-Changing Outcomes

Yet, the overall sentiment from patients is positive. Beyond correcting bite and chewing issues, improving speech, and enabling nasal breathing, many share stories of newfound confidence and comfort in their appearance. The emotional transformation is significant, with individuals expressing gratitude for improved quality of life and increased self-esteem. These testimonials remind us that double jaw surgery is both a physical and psychological journey, delivering profound changes that ripple into all aspects of life.

Conclusion

Underbite malocclusion is a complex condition that, when rooted in jawbone structure, is best treated with orthognathic surgery for a definitive solution. Double jaw surgery addresses both the health and aesthetic impacts of the condition, with South Korea offering a compelling blend of expertise, modern care, and value for patients. The journey requires careful planning and patient commitment, but the rewards are often life-changing in both function and confidence.

References

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