What Is a “Short Face” Profile?
A “short face” is characterized by an underdeveloped lower third of the face, often resulting in a small or flattened chin and a short distance between the chin and the nose.
Common features and concerns include:
- Recessed, compressed, or underdeveloped chin
- Short lower facial height
- Deep fold between chin and lower lip
- Jaw pain, popping or clicking sounds, jaw dislocation
- Anterior hypodivergence and facial imbalance
- Hidden teeth—upper teeth covering the lower ones
- Teeth not visible when smiling
- A prematurely aged or sad facial expression
What Surgical Options Are Available?
Surgery is considered when there’s a significant skeletal imbalance or when the short face causes functional issues—such as difficulty chewing, misaligned teeth, or breathing problems. It may also be done for patients with significant aesthetic concerns and low self-esteem. Treatment often includes orthodontics and is typically guided by a dentist who refers the patient to a maxillofacial or oral surgeon. This type of surgery is called orthognathic surgery.
Details of Short Face Surgery
The surgeon may operate on the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both (bimaxillary surgery). In some cases, a genioplasty (chin surgery) is also performed, either as a standalone procedure or in combination.
- The procedure is performed in a hospital or clinic, typically requiring a 1 to 3-day stay.
- Outpatient (same-day) surgery is rare.
- All incisions are made inside the mouth, there are no visible scars.
- The surgeon cuts the jawbones (osteotomy), repositions them, and secures them with titanium plates and screws (osteosynthesis).
Surgery is usually done at the end of adolescence, but it can also be performed later in life.
Expected Results
- Proper alignment between the upper and lower teeth
- Balanced facial proportions and improved self-confidence
- A more attractive smile with visible teeth
- Relief from TMJ (jaw joint) pain
- Natural, quiet nasal breathing
- Clearer speech and improved articulation
How Is This Different from Skeletal Class II Malocclusion?
In short face correction, the surgeon increases the vertical height of the chin. In Class II malocclusion, the goal is to advance the chin. Often, these conditions overlap, and the surgeon may decide to advance, lower, or rotate one or both jaws depending on 3D scans and X-rays of the patient’s bone structure.
Before/After Simulation of Lower Face Lengthening Surgery
We offer BEFORE/AFTER simulations to show how lower face lengthening surgery could transform your profile.
Simply upload a side-profile photo, and you’ll receive your simulation by email within 48 business hours.
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