A large facial structure can appear unattractive, causing significant distress for those concerned about their appearance. Plastic surgeons explain that women with prominent bone structures can undergo bone contouring surgery to reduce facial size. So, what does the bone contouring procedure entail? Many are curious—let's explore the details provided by plastic surgery experts.
What does the bone contouring facial reduction procedure entail?
1. Consultation. The patient communicates desired reduction areas and expected outcomes to the surgeon. Preoperative imaging—typically X-rays or even MRIs—is conducted to thoroughly assess skeletal structure. Based on individual characteristics, the surgeon provides recommendations and finalizes the surgical approach.
2. Anesthesia. Options include local or general anesthesia.
3. Incision. A cut is made inside the mouth near the jaw angle or cheekbone. The entire facial skin and muscle layer is then retracted from the oral cavity, separating muscles from the periosteum. The targeted bone area is exposed.
3. Incision. An incision is made inside the mouth near the jaw angle or cheekbone. The facial skin and muscles are retracted from within the oral cavity, separating the muscles from the periosteum to expose the target bone area for contouring. Since most blood vessels and nerves reside at the muscle-skin junction, the intraoral incision—combined with protective surgical shields and muscle separation from nerves—ensures high safety.
4. Hemostasis. Due to minimal trauma and bleeding, bone wax is applied to the bone resection site. This aids hemostasis while also promoting natural bone healing.
5. Masseter Muscle Management. Post-surgery, the skeletal support structure for the masseter muscle changes. Management depends on the degree of muscle hypertrophy. For excessive hypertrophy, partial muscle resection from the posterior aspect may be performed to accommodate the new bone structure.
6. Suturing and drainage. A drainage tube is placed during wound closure to remove blood clots. This tube is typically removed the day after surgery.
7. Appropriate compression bandaging. Facial bandaging provides hemostatic effects while aiding facial contouring.
8. Postoperative Recovery. For bone contouring procedures, hospitalization is usually only required for one day, with discharge possible after drain removal. Resection surgeries typically necessitate a hospital stay of three days to one week. During this period, the surgeon will administer appropriate antibiotics to prevent wound infection. Occasionally, small doses of steroids may be injected to reduce facial swelling.