Long Face Syndrome, Facial Hyperdivergence, or Prominent Chin
Common issues seen in “long face” profiles include:
- Prominent or elongated chin
- Incomplete closure of the lips at rest (lip incompetence)
- No visible break between the chin and neck
- Overgrowth of the lower face
- Excessive vertical facial height
- Enlarged lower jaw (mandible)
- Difficulty closing the mouth, hypotonic lips, visible teeth at rest
- Chin muscle strain, mouth breathing
- Malocclusion, chewing and eating difficulties
- TMJ pain (temporomandibular joint)
- Facial imbalance and vertical growth pattern (hyperdivergence)
- Gummy smile due to vertical overgrowth of the upper jaw (maxilla)
In some cases, jaw misalignment is caused by excessive lower jaw growth or by overdevelopment near the joint at the back of the jaw (hypercondylia).
Surgical Correction for Vertical Facial Excess
Facial surgeons—oral and maxillofacial surgeons, stomatologists, or specialists in facial surgery—perform these procedures. The goal is to reduce the height and adjust the vertical and horizontal angulation of the jaws.
Depending on the case, the surgeon may operate on:
- The upper jaw (maxilla) using Le Fort I, II, or III impaction techniques. This is often done in cases of a gummy smile—unless it’s due to a short upper lip or other factors.
- The lower jaw (mandible) using an osteotomy (bone cut), repositioning, and fixation with titanium plates and screws.
- Both jaws at once (bimaxillary surgery), for more complex cases.
If the long face is moderate, or in addition to other procedures, the surgeon may also perform reduction genioplasty or Chin-wing surgery to reshape and shorten the chin. Long face syndrome is often associated with facial asymmetry, where the chin deviates left or right due to mandibular misalignment. This lateral deviation will be corrected alongside the prominent chin, though it increases the complexity of the surgery.
Most surgeons now use 3D surgical planning software, based on CT scans and X-rays, to precisely simulate the operation. Custom 3D-printed surgical guides (splints) are then used during surgery to ensure accurate repositioning.
How the Surgery Works
Orthodontic treatment (braces) is typically needed before and after surgery. Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, with 1–2 nights in a clinic or hospital. All incisions are made inside the mouth, there are no visible scars.
- Recovery takes about 2–3 weeks;
- Full return to normal life may take 3–6 months;
- Final results are visible after about 1 year.
Main risks include bleeding, improper bone healing, infection, and temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the lower face.
Difference Between Long Face, Class II and Class III Malocclusions
Class II: Receding chin and jaw (retrognathia)
Class III: Protruding jaw (mandibular prognathism), with the lower jaw extending forward
Long face syndrome: Vertical excess, where the face grows downward more than forward or backward
A patient may have both long face syndrome and Class III malocclusion. In that case, the surgeon will address both issues simultaneously, typically combined with orthodontic treatment before and after surgery.
What Is Adenoid Long Face Syndrome?
In some children, vertical overgrowth of the lower face is linked to hypertrophy of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat (between the nose and the pharynx). This tissue helps fight microbes, but overexposure can lead to enlarged adenoids, resulting in abnormal facial development.
Common causes include:
- Frequent viral or bacterial infections
- Exposure to secondhand smoke
- Allergies (e.g., pollen, dust)
Typical symptoms include:
- Snoring and sleep apnea
- Noisy mouth breathing
- “Stuffy nose” speech
- Frequent sinus infections
Downward facial growth and development of a long face
This condition typically appears between ages 3 and 8, when lymphoid tissue is most active.
Reference: Clinical diagnosis of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome — Aubertin, Schröder, Sevin, Clouteau, Lamblin, Vecchierini
We create realistic BEFORE/AFTER simulations so you can visualize potential results from long face surgery. This can help guide your consultation with a surgeon and explore whether the simulated outcome is feasible for you.
Photo requirements:
Side-profile view, clear lighting, plain background, hair pulled back.
Once your order is confirmed and payment completed, you’ll be able to upload your photo using a dedicated form. Your simulation will be sent by email within 48 business hours.
No VAT applicable under Article 293 B of the French General Tax Code.
