At What Age Can I Get Jaw Implants?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I hope this message finds you well. I have been extensively researching jaw implants for over a year. Your expertise and reputation in the field have greatly impressed me, and I am planning to schedule an appointment at your office very soon. I am seeking your professional advice on a few concerns regarding jaw implants, particularly considering my age and current circumstances.

Age and Jaw Growth Concerns:

I recently turned 20, and my orthodontist confirmed that my jaw has stopped growing since 2020. However, there is a possibility of continued growth until I am 25.

Given this, am I too young to receive a jaw implant? What risks are associated with getting the procedure at my age?

Is there a way to determine definitively if my jaw has completely stopped growing, ensuring a successful and complication-free implant procedure?

Concerns About Fillers:

I have a strong preference for a permanent solution over fillers, such as Radiesse and Volux, which I find temporary and unsatisfactory.

Despite this, I have been recommended fillers due to my age. Considering my financial readiness do you think it is worth waiting until I am 25 for a jaw implant, or is it feasible to consider an implant now?

I have attached front and side profile pictures, as well as front and side x-rays of my skull, to provide a comprehensive view of my current jaw structure. I hope these images will assist you in giving me the most accurate and tailored advice possible.

A: In answer to your questions:

1) Whatever mandibular growth occurs after age 18 is minimal and in the sagittal direction, thus making that a non-consideration for any type of jaw implant.

2)  The risks of any facial implant procedure is age irrelevant.

3) There is no such thing as a risk-free surgical procedure particularly when it involves an implant.

4) Your jaw deficiency is primarily vertical (height) in its dimensional needs. This is evidenced by the adequate projecting chin but deep labiomental fold, bunched up chin pad tissues and vertically short chin combined with a flat mandibular plane angle behind it. The correct augmentation approach is a vertical lengthening bony genioplasty (6 to 8mms) with custom jawline implants behind it. (see attached imaging)

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon